Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. John McKeon and Mr. Niall Egan from the Department of Social Protection.

I draw the attention of witnesses 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 the committee. However, 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 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 or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

The opening statements submitted to the committee will be published on the committee website after 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I ask members, witnesses and visitors to ensure their mobile phones are turned off as they interfere with the sound recording of the committee and the live broadcast.

Today's meeting provides an update on employment activation measures. Last October, the committee heard details from the Department of Social Protection on the progress being made on the Pathways to Work strategy. I am pleased we are having a further update on employment activation measures today and invite Mr. McKeon to make his presentation.