Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This morning's meeting is being held at the request of Deputy John O'Mahony. The purpose is to meet with Mr. Liam Scollan, chairman, Ireland West Airport Knock, and Mr. Joe Gilmore, managing director, Ireland West Airport Knock, to discuss the expansion of the airport in recent years and the strategic role it now plays nationally.

On behalf of the joint committee, I wish to welcome Mr. Scollan and Mr. Gilmore. I would draw their attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given. They are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that where possible they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also wish to advise witnesses that the opening statement they have submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's website after this meeting.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such as way as to make him or her identifiable.

I will now invite Mr. Scollan to make his opening statement.