James Reilly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before we begin, I apologise to the witnesses for the fact that many members of the committee had to go to different meetings as a result of current events. I welcome Mr. Pat Davitt, CEO of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers and his personal assistant, Ms Valerie Mogerley. I also welcome the witnesses from Insurance Ireland, Mr. Kevin Thompson, CEO, and Mr. John Byrne, communications manager. We are discussing the cost of doing business in Ireland.

Before we commence, in accordance with procedure I am required to read the following. 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 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 or persons or an 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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind our guests that their presentations should be of no more than five minutes duration. Members have previously received the witnesses' submissions and presentations. Again, I apologise on behalf of the Chair. She had to go to another meeting. I am deputising for her.