Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are here for three hours. As he has an aeroplane to catch in the afternoon, we will try to deal with any questions members have on that topic in the next three hours. I understand that Mr. McMahon has a commitment. We are also joined by Mr. Martin Bourke, assistant secretary, and Mr. Mick Long, director of corporate services.

I remind members, witnesses and those in the Public Gallery to turn off all mobile phones. That means switching them to aeroplane mode. Switching them to silent mode is not sufficient because they can still interfere with the recording system.

I advise the witnesses 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. If a witness is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in respect of a particular matter and he or she continues to so do, the witness is entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of the 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 nor make charges against any person, persons or entity, by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Members are reminded of the provisions within Standing Order 186 that the committee shall also refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits of the objectives of such policies. We expect witnesses to answer questions put by the committee clearly and with candour. We have not fully experienced that with other witnesses in the past and it is an issue we will be getting stronger on as a committee. If there is information and the witnesses are not specifically asked about it but they know it is very relevant to the topic, we would ask them to share it with us. Witnesses can and should expect to be treated fairly and with respect and consideration at all times, in accordance with the witness protocol.

We will start by taking the Comptroller and Auditor General's opening statement.