Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We will now consider with representatives of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform and the Safe Home Ireland emigrant support group the issues facing emigrants returning to rural Ireland. I welcome Mr. Ciaran Staunton, chairman, Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform; Ms Karen McHugh, chief executive, Safe Home Ireland immigrant support group; Ms Maureen O'Sullivan and Mr. Michael McMahon and thank them for their attendance.

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 joint committee. However, if they are directed by it 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. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Any opening statement or other document submitted to the committee may be published on its 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.