Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This morning we are meeting the National Transport Authority of Ireland to discuss its financial statements for 2018. The Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General will be represented in this session by Mr. Andy Harkness and Mr. John Crean, deputy directors of audit. We are joined by Ms Anne Graham, CEO, National Transport Authority; Mr. Hugh Creegan, deputy CEO; Mr. Tim Gaston, director of public transport services; and Mr. Philip L’Estrange, director of finance and corporate services. From the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, we are joined by Ms Deirdre Hanlon, assistant secretary, public transport and climate change; and Ms Una McDermott, public transport corporate and services division.

I draw the attention of our guests 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 they are 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.

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

I invite Mr. Harkness to make the opening statement of the Comptroller and Auditor General.