Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Dr. Richard Thorn, chairman designate of the governing body of the NCAD. The purpose of this part of the meeting is to engage with him about his experience and background, his vision and priorities in the short to medium term, and about any challenges facing the organisation. I invite him to make a brief opening statement, as brief as possible, which will be followed by an engagement with the members of the committee.

Before we begin, I am obliged to draw to his attention 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 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. I also wish to advise the witness that any opening statement that he makes to the committee will be published on the committee's website after the meeting. 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.

It is not the function of the committee to approve or reject Dr. Thorn's nomination. This meeting is not an interview process for the incoming chairperson. It is merely an opportunity for the committee to engage in public session with the person nominated by the Government. I call on Dr. Thorn to make his opening statement.