Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before we begin, I ask witnesses to turn off their mobile phones as interference from them affects the sound quality and transmission of the meeting. I welcome Mr. Ian Talbot, chief executive of Chambers Ireland. With him is Ms Sarah Freeman, director of policy and communications. I thank them for making themselves available to the committee. A copy of their pre-budget submission has already been circulated and we will take it as read. The witnesses have been asked to touch on the following themes in their presentation: VAT in the hospitality sector; the vacant site levy; local property tax, LPT; and their pre-budget submission.

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.

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.

Mr. Talbot has been allotted 15 minutes to make his opening statement. He does not have to use all of that time and may share time with Ms Freeman.