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

We are now in public session. I remind everybody to switch off mobile phones. Apologies have been received from Deputy Helen McEntee. The item on the agenda is a discussion with two representatives from Virgin Atlantic Airlines: Mr. Joe Thompson, director of network and alliances and Mr. Dave Hodges.

The purpose of the meeting is to engage with Mr. Thompson and Mr. Hodges regarding Virgin Atlantic's views on the likely impact of the possible takeover of Aer Lingus by IAG on connectivity for Irish airline passengers. On behalf of the committee, I welcome both of them.

I wish to draw attention to the fact 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 witnesses are directed by the Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, 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 or 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 them that any submission or opening statement they have submitted to the committee will be published on the committee website following 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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Thompson to make his presentation.