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

We will resume in public session. I ask that people turn off their mobile phones or turn them to flight mode as they interfere with the recording and broadcast of the proceedings.

I draw the attention of witnesses 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. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 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 an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The witnesses' opening statements will be published on the committee website after the meeting. I am pleased to welcome the Banking and Payments Federation Ireland, represented by Mr. Noel Brett, Mr. Maurice Crowley and Mr. Felix O'Regan. I thank our guests for attending and for submitting documentation. I invite Mr. Brett to make his opening statement.