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

The purpose of this morning's meeting is to review the provisions contained in the draft statutory instrument for the small public service vehicle (consolidation and reform) regulations 2014 with representatives of the National Transport Authority, NTA. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Hugh Creegan, director of transport investment and taxi regulation at the NTA. Apologies have been received from Mr. Gerry Murphy, who cannot attend.
I draw Mr. Creegan's attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, he is protected by absolute privilege in respect of his evidence to the committee. However, if he is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and he continues to do so, he is entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of his evidence. He is directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and is asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, he 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 the witnesses that the opening statements submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's 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 or persons outside the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I now invite Mr. Creegan to make his opening statement.