Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are dealing with detailed scrutiny of the Digital Safety Commissioner Bill 2017, a Private Members' Bill sponsored by Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire.

I draw the attention of witnesses to 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 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. 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 statement made to the committee will be published on the committee website after this 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. I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones or switch them to flight mode.

I welcome the Minister, Deputy Richard Bruton, who is accompanied by Ms Tríona Quill, principal officer, broadcasting policy division; and Mr. Dualta Ó Broin, assistant principal, broadcasting policy division. Also present is Deputy Ó Laoghaire, who has sponsored the Bill. Before I ask Deputy Ó Laoghaire to give us an overview, I take the opportunity to congratulate the Minister on his new appointment. We look forward to working with him and his Department.