John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of today's meeting is to meet Mr. John O'Connor, chairperson designate, EirGrid to discuss the approach that he will take in his proposed new role. We also want to hear his views on the challenges that face the company.

Members will be aware of the Government's decision in May 2011 which put new arrangements in place for the appointment of persons to State boards and bodies. The committee welcomes the opportunity to meet the chairperson designate in public session to hear his views. We trust that the debate will provide greater transparency to the process of appointments to State boards and bodies. On behalf of the committee I welcome Mr. John O'Connor.

I draw witnesses' attention to 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 this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I also wish to advise that any submission or opening statements the witness has submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's 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 House or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I call on Mr. O'Connor to make his opening remarks.