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

We are in public session. I again remind colleagues about mobile telephones, which must be switched off or put in flight mode. I draw to the attention of the witness the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, he is protected by absolute privilege in respect of his evidence to this committee. However, if he is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continues to so do, he is entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of his evidence. The witness is directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and is asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, he 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 statement the witness has submitted to the committee 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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I am pleased to welcome Dr. Ronan Lyons, assistant professor at Trinity College. I thank him for coming before the committee. I apologise that the previous session he was scheduled to attend had to be cancelled due to Dáil business. I thank him for accepting the cancellation and for reappearing. It is much appreciated by the committee.

If Dr. Lyons wishes to make an opening statement I am sure my colleagues will have a number of questions for him then.