Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to ensure their mobile telephones are switched off completely for the duration of the meeting, as they cause interference with the broadcasting equipment, even when left in silent mode.

The committee continues its series of meetings considering critical issues for Ireland in the event that our neighbour, the United Kingdom, decides to exit the European Union. The Prime Minister, Mr. David Cameron has promised a referendum on this question if he is returned to power following a general election. The committee decided to examine this issue now in view of the potential impact on this country and on the many Irish citizens living in the United Kingdom. Our discussion will focus on the Lisbon treaty protocols and the future of Irish opt-outs in the context of a UK exit from the EU and also on criminal justice issues such as EU policing and judicial co-operation. Today we will hear from Professor Imelda Maher and Mr. Eugene Regan, SC. I welcome both expert witnesses.

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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

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 it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I invite Professor Maher to address the committee.