Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I welcome back the members as we recommence. The item we are addressing is pre-legislative scrutiny of the Tailte Éireann Bill 2020. To assist us, I welcome, from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Ms Mary Hurley, assistant secretary, and Ms Emma Reeves, principal officer. Members have been circulated with the briefing and opening statement. I will first ask for the Department's opening statement and members will then be invited to address questions. We will probably be okay on time today because a number of members have sent apologies. They cannot attend as they are on other business.

Witnesses attending remotely within the Leinster House complex are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation they make to the committee. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty, as Chair, to ensure this privilege is not abused. Therefore if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation 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 remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House in order to participate in public meetings. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The opening statement submitted to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting. I invite Ms Reeves to make the opening statement.