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

I remind members and witnesses to make sure that their mobile phones are completely turned off. We are here to discuss the horse racing industry. I welcome Mr. Nicky Hartery, chairman, and Mr. Brian Kavanagh, chief executive officer from Horse Racing Ireland. I thank them for coming before the committee to update it on Horse Racing Ireland's overall performance, operational matters and corporate plan for horse racing in Ireland. Mr. Hartery was before a committee in July 2018 following his appointment as chairperson, though it feels like only yesterday. This is his first official visit here.

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.