John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We will concentrate in this investigation solely on the issue of the Ansbacher investigation. Before we begin, I remind members, visitors and those in the Visitors Gallery to turn off their mobile phones or remove them from the desk in front of them as they interfere with the sound quality and transmission of the meeting.

I advise witnesses that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give this committee. 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. 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 nor make charges against a Minister of either House, a person or persons outside the House nor an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Members are reminded of the provision within Standing Order 163 that the committee shall refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government, or the merits of the objectives of such policy or policies.

I welcome Ms Josephine Feehily, chairman of the Revenue Commissioners, and ask her to introduce her officials.