Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome representatives from Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland to discuss the impact of Covid-19 on the tourism sector.

I welcome Mr. Paul Kelly, chief executive of Fáilte Ireland and his colleague, Ms Jenny De Saulles, director of industry engagement, who will join the meeting remotely, and Mr. Niall Gibbons, chief executive of Tourism Ireland. Witnesses will have three minutes for opening statements, followed by questions from members. The committee may publish opening statements on its website following the meeting.

I must explain some limitations in parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses regarding references witnesses may make to another person in their evidence. Witnesses who are physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts are protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege, but witnesses and participants who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts. Some witnesses may think it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter.

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 to make him or them identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of that person or entity. If statements are potentially defamatory in relation to the identification of somebody or an entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that witnesses comply with any such direction. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against persons outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.