Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is our final hearing on issues affecting the aviation sector. I welcome the witnesses: Captain Evan Cullen, president of the Irish Air Line Pilots Association, IALPA; Captain Alan Brereton, vice president of IALPA; Mr. Neil McGowan, aviation sector organiser, SIPTU; Ms Karan O'Loughlin, SIPTU; Mr. Paddy Kavanagh, general secretary, Connect Trade Union; Mr. Matt Staunton, deputy secretary general, Fórsa trade union; Ms Ashley Connelly, assistant general secretary, Fórsa; Ms Dee Ryan, chief executive officer of Limerick Chamber; and Dr. Catríona Cahill, chief economist, Limerick Chamber.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that 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 or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. If the witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory, in respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with all such directions.

For witnesses attending the meeting remotely, there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and, as such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as witnesses who are physically present. Witnesses participating in this meeting from jurisdictions outside this State are advised that they should be mindful of their domestic law and how that may apply to the evidence they give.

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.

Witnesses will be aware of the time limitations owing to the Covid restrictions. The meeting may not extend beyond two hours so I hope they can keep their presentations to five minutes each. I acknowledge that is limiting in itself but I hope they will be able to oblige us in that regard. I call on Mr. Cullen to make his opening statement on behalf of IALPA.