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

Before we commence, I ask people to turn off their mobile telephones or turn them to flight mode, as they interfere with the recording and broadcasting 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.

The opening statements will be published on the committee website after this 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.

I welcome Mr. Declan Dunne, Mr. David Carroll, Ms Fionnughla McLoughlin and Ms Fiona Barry from the Dublin Homeless Network, Ms Tríona O’Connor from the Limerick and Clare Homeless Alliance, and Mr. Aaron O'Connell from the Cork Social Housing Forum.

The groups’ submissions have been received and circulated to members. I invite Mr. Declan Dunne to make his presentation.