Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are engaging with Professors John FitzGerald and Edgar Morgenroth today. I thank them for their patience before the meeting started. We are continuing our discussion of the Northern Ireland economy in respect of problems and prospects. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the witnesses to the meeting.

I will now read the following in respect of privilege. 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, witnesses and participants who are to give evidence from a location outside of 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.

They may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Witnesses are also asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings should be given. They should respect directions given by the Chair and 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 or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to that person's or entity's good name.

I call on either Professor FitzGerald or Professor Morgenroth to make their opening statement.