Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Today I am pleased that we are able to discuss the introduction of statutory sick pay. The importance of this issue became apparent at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. I am pleased that we are joined remotely today by representatives of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association. From ICTU we have Ms Patricia King, general secretary, and Dr. Laura Bambrick, social policy officer. From ISME we have the chief executive, Mr. Neil McDonnell.

Before we continue, witnesses should note the limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses with regard to references witnesses may make to another person in evidence. The evidence of witnesses who are physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. However, today's witnesses are giving their evidence remotely from a place outside the parliamentary precincts. They may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness physically present. 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, her or it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of a person or entity. If statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identified person or entity, the speaker will be directed to discontinue the remarks. It is imperative that witnesses comply with any such directions.

The opening statements have been circulated to all members already. I wish to remind everyone that because of Covid-19 restrictions, the meeting is limited to 1 hour and 55 minutes. There will be time limits on speaking. The first person I will call on to speak is Ms Patricia King, general secretary of ICTU.