Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We have a quorum and will recommence in public session unless there is anything members wish to discuss in private.

I welcome our witnesses and thank them for coming here today. From the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, we are joined by Patricia King, general secretary; Dr. Sharon McGuinness, CEO of the Health and Safety Authority will join us by video link from committee room 1; and we will also be joined by Mr. Tom Parlon of the Construction Industry Federation, director general. I understand Ms King and Mr. Parlon will join us shortly in the Chamber.

We are working under tight time constraints and I am aware Dr. McGuinness cannot see the time slots from the committee room. We are working to remedy that before next week's meeting. We will indicate whether slots are five or ten minutes and she can perhaps keep track of it on her phone if that might be of assistance. I am just letting her know in case I have to cut across her to ensure there is sufficient time for everybody to ask questions.

Deputy Duffy is substituting for Deputy Smyth. We were not informed of that in advance but it is okay as it is the start of this session.

I advise the 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 this committee. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and continue to do so, 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, namely, the State's response to Covid-19, is to be given. 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.

While we expect witnesses to answer questions asked by the committee clearly and with candour, witnesses can and should expect to be treated fairly, with respect and consideration at all times. If they have concerns with regard to their treatment, they should bring them to the attention of the committee immediately and they will be considered.

I ask witnesses to limit their opening statements to five minutes. We have received their statements in advance. I call on Ms Patricia King, general secretary, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, ICTU, to make her opening statement.