Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of this part of the meeting is to continue our discussion on accessibility of public transport for people with disabilities. This is the fifth in a series of hearings. We have previously heard from transport users and, more recently, transport operators. We will now hear from the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Shane Ross. He and his officials are very welcome.

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 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 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 invite the Minister to make his opening statement.