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

Before we begin with our guests, who are very welcome, I offer my condolences and those of the committee to the family of former Deputy and Minister of State, Noel Treacy, who passed away recently. He was a former Cathaoirleach of this committee and, as the current Cathaoirleach, I extend our sincerest sympathies to his wife Mary, his children, Joan, Emer, Lisa and Rory, and all other members of his family.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome Bill Forbes, chief officer; Damien McCallion, director general; and Neil Guckian, deputy director general, Cooperation and Working Together, CAWT. I apologise for the delay in getting them in here.

I will read a notice on privilege, which I am sure they have heard before. 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.

I invite Mr. McCallion to make his opening statement.