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

Our engagement today is with representatives of the Integrated Education Fund. I welcome Ms Tina Merron, chief executive, Mr. Peter Osborne, director and Mr. Paul Collins, head of public affairs and advocacy, of the Integrated Education Fund.

I must read this note on privilege to all witnesses who come before us. 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, witnesses and participants who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts 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 Chairman and the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or 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 that person's or entity's good name. So that our witnesses will understand, we read that at every meeting and there is nothing unique about reading it today.

I invite Mr. Collins to make his opening statement.