Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I ask everybody to turn off their mobile phones. They should not be put on silent mode because even when in that mode they can affect the broadcasting equipment.

The tragic events of Friday, 13 November in Paris shocked the world. On behalf of the joint committee, I extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the ambassador. I thank him for coming before us today to talk about the recent tragic events. Brussels is just beginning to emerge from the lockdown that was put in place last weekend so it is important we keep abreast of what is happening at the heart of the Union.

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. 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 they 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 qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses 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 invite the ambassador to make his opening remarks.