Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

That is no problem. I thank Deputy Durkan for letting us know. Before we begin, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege in the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. 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, today's witnesses are giving their evidence remotely from a place outside the parliamentary precincts and, as such, may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as witnesses who are physically present.

Witnesses are again reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise nor make charges against any person or entity, by name or in any way as to make him, her or it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. 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 they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise nor make charges against any person outside the Houses or any official either by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit members to participate where they are not adhering to the constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

Today's engagement is with the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, IFAC, to discuss its fiscal assessment report, which was published last week. On behalf of the members of the committee, I welcome Mr. Sebastian Barnes, Dr. Adele Bergin, Professor Michael McMahon, Mr. Alessandro Giustiniani, Ms Dawn Holland and Dr. Eddie Casey. The committee and IFAC are old friends at this stage. I invite Mr. Barnes to make his opening statement.