Joe McHugh (Donegal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputies McHugh and Brady and Senator Martin. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Professor Donnacha Ó Beacháin and Professor Ben Tonra to our meeting. I thank them for giving of their time and expertise. We look forward to engaging with them and hearing their expertise. We will engage on the potential Russia-Ukraine conflict and the role of the European Union in that regard.

Before we begin, I am obliged to deal with some housekeeping matters. 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 or her identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging of the person or entity. Therefore, if a witness’s statements are potentially defamatory - I am sure they are not - in relation to any identifiable person, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that 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 or make charges against a person outside the House or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I again remind members of the constitutional requirement that members must be physically present within in the confines of Leinster House in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit members not adhering to this constitutional requirement to participate. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts of the Leinster House campus will be asked to discontinue their remarks.

I call on Professor Ó Beacháin, who, I understand, is going first, to give his opening statement.