Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I ask members, delegates and those in the Visitors Gallery to ensure their mobile phones are switched off completely for the duration of the meeting, as they cause interference, even when left in silent mode, with the recording and broadcasting equipment in the committee room. The meeting is being broadcast live on Oireachtas TV and across the various media platforms.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or body outside the Houses, or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

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 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 asked to respect the parliamentary practice that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

We are meeting the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett; who is joined by Major General Kevin Cotter, deputy Chief of Staff; and Brigadier General Peter O'Halloran, assistant Chief of Staff. I extend a very warm welcome to all of our guests. The purpose of the meeting is allow members of the committee to discuss with the Chief of Staff matters relevant to his role and gain an insight into his priorities for the Defence Forces in the coming years. I also welcome the other members of the Defence Forces who are with us. Céad míle fáilte rompu go léir. This is the first time the Chief of Staff has addressed a committee of the Oireachtas. As such, Dr. Mellett is most welcome. I ask him to make his presentation.