James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for attending and welcome those in the Gallery who are here to view the proceedings today. As Vice Chair of the committee, I am standing in temporarily for the Chair, Deputy Naughton, who has gone to the Dáil Chamber for a related item, so I will take the start of the session.

I wish to advise the witnesses that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. If witnesses are directed by this committee to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled, thereafter, only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses 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. Any submission or opening statements made to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting, and will also be contained in the video recording which will be online afterwards. 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 by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones or switch them to flight mode. Mobile phones interfere with the sound system and make it difficult for parliamentary reporters to report the meeting. Television coverage and web streaming can also be adversely affected.

I welcome the witnesses to the meeting today to engage with the joint committee in the detailed scrutiny of the Private Member's Bill. Deputy Bríd Smith, a sponsor of the Bill, is joined by her adviser, Mr. Owen McCormack, who is very welcome to the committee. Deputy Smith and the main witnesses shall speak for approximately seven to ten minutes each, and we will then have a question and answer session. Each member may ask a question of not more than three minutes.