Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

He is about to be. I do not think we have any powers to change the decision. I welcome Mr. Parsons to this afternoon's meeting.

Gabhaim mo mhíle buíochas leis as teacht isteach inniu.

Before I ask the witness to address the committee, I wish to draw his attention 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 in relation to 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 they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. The opening statement and any other documents the witness has submitted to the committee may be published on the committee website after this meeting. Members are reminded of a long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against persons outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

To commence our discussion, I invite Mr. Parsons to make his presentation.