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

The purpose of this morning's meeting is to discuss with Mr. Noel Curran, director general, RTE, the report of the editorial review of "The Frontline" presidential debate. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Curran, who is accompanied by Mr. Kevin Bakhurst, managing director, MD, of RTE news and current affairs, Ms Clare Duignan, MD of RTE radio, Mr. Brian Dalton, MD of corporate development, and Mr. Rob Morrison and Mr. Steve Carson, co-authors of the report. Mr. Roy Coveney is also in attendance.

I 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 they 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 and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also wish to advise them that the opening statements 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 by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I now invite Mr. Curran to make his opening statement.