Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This morning we are meeting representatives of An Bord Pleanála in regard to its financial statements for 2018. We are joined by Mr. Dave Walsh, chairman, Mr. Gerard Egan, director of corporate affairs, and Ms Carol Moloney, head of finance. We are also joined by Mr. Terry Sheridan, principal officer in the planning division of the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government.

I remind members, witnesses and those in the Public Gallery that all mobile phones must be switched off completely. Putting them on airplane mode or on silent will still interfere with the recording system.

I want to advise witnesses that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter to only qualified privilege in respect of that evidence. They 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 or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

Members of the committee are reminded of the provisions of Standing Order 186 that the committee shall refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits or objectives of such policies. While we expect witnesses to answer questions asked by the committee clearly and with candour, they can and should expect to be treated fairly and with respect and consideration at all times, in accordance with the witness protocol.

I call on Mr. McCarthy to make his opening statement.