John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are dealing with financial statements 2011 of the National Transport Authority. Before beginning the meeting, I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones. I wish to advise witnesses that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give this committee. 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 a 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 a Member of either House, a person outside the Houses, or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Members are reminded of the provision within Standing Order 163 that the committee shall also refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government, or a Minister of the Government, or the merits of the objectives of such policy.

This is the first time Mr. Murphy has appeared before the committee. I wish him well and ask him to introduce his officials.