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

The next part of the meeting involves a discussion with the chairman designate of the Port of Cork, Mr. John Mullins, on the approach he will take in his proposed new role and his views on the challenges facing the port. Members will be aware of the Government's decision of May 2011 that put new arrangements in place for the appointment of persons to State boards and bodies. The joint committee welcomes the opportunity to meet the chairman designate to hear his views. We trust this will provide greater transparency in the process of making appointments to State boards and bodies.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Mullins. I draw to his attention 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 the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against a person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also advise Mr. Mullins that the opening statements he has submitted to the committee will be published on its website after the 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 a way as to make him or her identifiable. I invite Mr. Mullins to make his opening statement, following which members will ask questions.