David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. John Costello, chairman of the Parole Board.

Witnesses should note they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, 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 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. Members should also be aware that, under the salient rulings of the Chair, 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. Costello to make his opening statement. I apologise more members are not present but we had a long session previously. Members are fatigued as a result.