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

Today's engagement is with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Coveney. This follows on from engagement with the representatives of the Ballymurphy families. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Minister.

Although the Minister is well acquainted with it, I must read a note about privilege. The evidence of witnesses physically present 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 the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings that a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts does and 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 the proceedings should be given. They should respect directions given by the Chair and the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should neither criticise nor 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 the person's or entity's good name. I invite the Minister to make his opening statement.