John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to turn off their mobile phones. If they wish to take off their masks when they are speaking for identification purposes, they should please do so. Today we are engaging with the Central Bank. I welcome Mr. Ed Sibley, Ms Gráinne McEvoy and their colleague, Mr. Anthony Cahalan.

On privilege, the witnesses 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. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation they make to the committee. I remind members that privilege applies if they are attending the meeting or are on site but if they are attending remotely they do not have the same privilege. I ask Mr. Sibley to give his opening statement.