John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it 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 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. The opening statements submitted to the committee will be published on the committee's website after the meeting. Members are reminded of the long-standing practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I welcome the Construction Industry Federation, CIF, represented this morning by Mr. Tom Parlon, director general, and Mr. Hugh O'Neill, Mr. Anthony Neville, Mr. Hubert Fitzpatrick and Mr. Shane Dempsey. I understand that Mr. Parlon will make a short opening statement, and we will then have questions from members. I thank the witnesses for their attendance.