Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members and witnesses to make sure their mobile phones are turned off completely. We next have an engagement with the chairperson designate of Coillte. The purpose of this session is to engage with Ms Bernie Gray who has recently been appointed chairperson of Coillte. The committee is interested in discussing the approach Ms Gray will take in her new role and in hearing about the vision and priorities she has identified for this particular role. I congratulate Ms Gray on her appointment and I wish her well in her new position.

I draw attention 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. 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 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.

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 ask Ms Gray to deliver her opening statement, following which members will ask questions.