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

The next item is a discussion with representatives of the Irish EV Owners' Association on the subject of electric cars. We are all more conscious of the benefits of electric vehicles, having recently engaged with the Volkswagen Group on incorrect emissions readings.

On behalf of the joint committee, I welcome Mr. Frank Barr, Mr. Paddy Carroll, Mr. Joe McCarthy and Mr. Guillaume Séguin of the Irish EV Owners Association. I draw their attention 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. If witnesses are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and 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 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. I wish to advise also that any submission or opening statements witnesses have made to the committee may be published on the committee website after the meeting. I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or persons outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I now invite Mr. Paddy Carroll to make the association's opening statement.