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

We will continue our discussion on the outline heads of the maritime area and foreshore (amendment) Bill 2013. I welcome Mr. Peter Carvill, assistant principal officer, designations, legislation and EU compliance; Dr. Eamonn Kelly, wildlife inspector; and Mr. Johnny Gorman on behalf of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. I thank them for their attendance.

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. 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 wish to advise that the opening statement and any other documentation the witnesses present to the committee this afternoon may be published on our website when the meeting has adjourned. I invite Mr. Carvill to address the committee.