Liam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members, witnesses and visitors in the Public Gallery that all mobile telephones must be switched off. I advise witnesses that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give this committee. However, 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 or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

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 refer to any official in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I propose that we proceed in ten minute slots. Given the large number of members who wish to contribute, I will, if necessary, cut off speakers mid-sentence when the slot concludes.