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

I thank the Cathaoirleach, Senator Mark Daly, for giving the committee permission to use the Seanad Chamber following the difficulties which arose in the committee meeting rooms. I thank members and witnesses for participating in today's meeting in line with the requirements relating to the exceptional circumstances we are experiencing under Covid-19. I remind them that, apart from myself and the staff from the committee secretariat, all members and witnesses are participating remotely and all members are required to participate from within the Leinster House complex. Apologies have been received from Deputy Shanahan.

I am pleased that we are able to commence our pre-legislative scrutiny of the general scheme of the employment permits (consolidation and amendment) Bill 2019. It has been submitted by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Varadkar, to the committee for pre-legislative scrutiny. From the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, I welcome Ms Fiona Ward, who is accompanied by Mr. Rob Walsh and Ms. Miriam Tracey.

Before we start, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses 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. As such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal prosecution from proceedings as a witness physically present does. 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 may be regarded as damaging to the good name of that person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory with regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I invite Ms Ward to make her opening statement.