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

I welcome Professor P. J. Drudy to this session. Before we commence, will people turn off their mobile telephones or turn them to flight mode as they interfere with the recording and broadcasting of the proceedings?

I draw Professor Drudy’s 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. However, 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 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 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 website after the meeting. 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.

Professor Drudy has already submitted a paper which has been circulated to members. I invite Professor Drudy to make his opening statement and I will then invite colleagues to ask him questions.