Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the second part of today's committee meeting is to discuss the issues affecting cabin crew and specifically the recent announcement about the Aer Lingus Shannon and Cork bases. I apologise for the delay in starting this session. We had technical issues during the first session. It is great to have our guests here. I welcome Ms Ashley Connolly, national secretary of Fórsa; Ms Sarah O'Leary, CCM, Cork base; Ms Mary Mulholland, CSM, Shannon base; Mr. Gerry Clarke, CSM, Shannon base; Ms Liz Barry, CSM, Dublin base; and Ms Catriona Jones, CSM, Dublin base. They are all most welcome.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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 might be regarded as damaging the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identified person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction. For witnesses attending remotely outside of the Leinster House campus, there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege. As such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness physically present does. Witnesses participating in this committee session from a jurisdiction outside the State are advised that they should also be mindful of their domestic law and how it may apply to the evidence they give.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members who join this meeting remotely that they are only allowed to participate in the meeting if they are physically located in the Leinster House campus. In this regard, I also ask members who are participating to confirm, prior to making a contribution to the meeting, that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

This is an important session and it is a matter on which we are strongly focused. I invite Ms Connolly to make her opening statement. She has five minutes. We are putting limitations on the time because we want ensure we get as many contributions from members and witnesses as possible.