Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have convened this meeting to have a discussion with Susan Bergin, chair designate of Screen Ireland, regarding her key priorities as the newly designated chair of the organisation. Along with Ms Bergin is Désirée Finnegan, chief executive of Screen Ireland. I welcome both witnesses, who are joining us in Committee Room 3 remotely via Microsoft Teams.

The format of the meeting is such that I will invite witnesses to make an opening statement, which will be followed by questions from members of the committee. As attendees are probably aware, the committee may publish the opening statements on its website following the meeting. Before I invite Ms Bergin to deliver her opening statement, which is limited to three minutes, if possible, I will advise the witnesses in relation to parliamentary privilege. There is a little bit of housekeeping to go through, so please bear with me.

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 might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to any identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative that they comply. As our witnesses are attending remotely from outside Leinster House campus they should please note that there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and as such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity to legal proceedings as does a witness who is physically present.

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 of the constitutional requirements that they must be physically present with the confines of Leinster House in order to participate in the public meetings. I cannot permit members to attend outside that.

In addition, when physically present in the committee room for the committee's meetings, members in attendance are asked to exercise personal responsibility in protecting themselves and others from the risk of contracting Covid-19. It is strongly advised to practice good hand hygiene and that members leave at least one vacant seat between themselves and others attending. They should always maintain an appropriate level social distancing during and after the meeting. Masks, preferably of medical grade, should be worn at all times during the meeting except when speaking. I ask for members' full co-operation in that regard. Finally, members should identify themselves when contributing for the benefit of the Debates Office staff who are preparing the Official Report, and should mute their microphone when not contributing to reduce background noise and feedback. Members should please use the raise hand button on Teams if they wish to make a contribution.

Members have been circulated with the speaking slots the secretariat has very kindly prepared and can see where they come in. There is always room for manoeuvre. If people need to change around, we can do that. The first three speakers will be Deputy Munster, Senator Malcolm Byrne and Deputy Fitzpatrick. It is noted that apologies have been received from Deputy Cannon and Senator Hoey.

With all that housekeeping done and to one side, Ms Bergin and Ms Finnegan are very welcome. We are delighted to have them with us today. I will hand over to Ms Bergin.