Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Session A today is an engagement on the future of Europe with Mr. Pat Cox. At our last meeting a number of witnesses focused on the impact the UK's withdrawal may have on the future of the European Union. Today, we will continue on that theme and we are delighted that Mr. Pat Cox has joined us. Mr. Cox does not really need an introduction to this group. As a former president of the European Parliament, his experience and understanding of European institutions will, no doubt, give him an invaluable insight into the potential ramifications and changes. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Cox to this meeting and thank him for his willingness to share his experience and analysis with us.

Before we begin, I must refer to the issue of privilege. 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. By virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses 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 they 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 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.

I now invite Mr. Cox to make his opening statement, after which we will have a question and answer session.