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

The purpose of this engagement is to hear the view of Google and YouTube on the abuse of social media, including the challenges posed by cyberbullying and online harassment. As I have said before, because social media is changing the way in which many of our citizens interact with one another, we thought it was important that the committee should become aware of the various facets of this topic, particularly in light of the disquiet that has been expressed in some quarters about the lack of curbs on the irresponsible use of these channels. As members are probably aware, the committee has already heard the views of the Office for Internet Safety and Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Pat Rabbitte, and has held meetings attended by representatives of the social media networks Facebook and Twitter. We have also met the National Anti-Bullying Coalition and will hear from Digital Rights Ireland later this morning. In addition, we are taking submissions in writing via social media channels from interested groups and individuals. At the end of that process we propose to prepare a report and make recommendations to the Houses of the Oireachtas. On behalf of the committee I welcome Ms Sue Duke, head of public policy, and Ms Sabine Frank, media literacy policy counsel, from Google.

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 witnesses 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 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 and 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 that any submission or opening statement submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's website after this meeting. I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I invite Ms Duke to make her opening statement.