Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Today we will discuss the threat of extinction of one third of the native bee population and related matters. I am pleased to welcome from the Federation of Irish Beekeepers Associations Mr. Ken Norton, public relations officer; Mr. Paul O'Brien, president; and Mr. Peter Walsh, one of its beekeepers.

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 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. I advise them that their opening statements and any other document they have submitted to the committee may be published on its website after the 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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.