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

Before we proceed, I ask colleagues and witnesses to either turn off their mobile phones or switch them to flight mode.

I draw 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 this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to 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 nor 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 parliamentary practice to the effect that 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 welcome Ms Michelle Murphy from Social Justice Ireland to the meeting. The full submission from Social Justice Ireland has been made available to members. I invite Ms Murphy to make an opening statement, which will be followed by questions from my colleagues.