Michael McCarthy (Cork South West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We will proceed. We are short a few members but we hope they will join us before long. The sixth witness to address the committee this afternoon is Professor Ray Bates from the Meteorology and Climate Centre in University College Dublin.

Before Professor Bates begins, he should note that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter to a qualified privilege only. Witnesses are directed to restrict their evidence to the subject matter of these proceedings and to respect the parliamentary practice by not criticising or make charges against any person, persons or entity. Witnesses are asked to read the document which has been circulated to them concerning privilege. I wish to remind Professor Bates not to read out the opening statement. This has been circulated to members and will be considered as read. He has a maximum of five minutes to deliver his owning address and I will indicate when the five minutes are up. Professor Bates is very welcome. He might address the committee.