Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. Pat Delaney, the chairman designate of An tSeirbhís Oideachais Leanúnaigh agus Scileanna, SOLAS, the new State training agency.

I advise him 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. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, 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. They are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also advise Mr. Delaney that the opening statement he has submitted to the committee will be published on the committee website following 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 any official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

SOLAS will be responsible for the integration, co-ordination and funding of further education and training. This is set out in the policy brief circulated to members. The appointment of the chairman of SOLAS is subject to consideration by the committee. I invite Mr. Delaney to make his presentation.