Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the joint committee, from Scouting Ireland I welcome to our second session Mr. Adrian Tennant, chairman of the board of directors; Dr. John Lawlor, chief executive officer; and Mr. Ian Elliott, interim safeguarding manager. 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 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 to the effect 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.

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, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I ask members and delegates to switch off their mobile phones as they interfere with the broadcasting and sound systems, even when left in silent mode, and make it difficult for the parliamentary reporters to report the proceedings of the meeting.

I advise delegates that any submission or opening statement made to the committee will be published on its website after the meeting. After the presentation members will engage with the delegates in a question and answer session.

I understand those following the proceedings online are having difficulties and that the connection has dropped a couple of times. They can be viewed on Saorview, RTE News Now, Sky and other service providers.

I invite Mr. Tennant to make his opening statement.