Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Our next business is an engagement with the Press Ombudsman, Mr. Peter Feeney, on the annual reports for 2018, 2019 and 2020 and related matters.

Before we start, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses regarding 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, the witnesses are giving evidence remotely from a place outside of the parliamentary precincts and, as such, may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness who is physically present does. Witnesses may think it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. The witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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 any of their statements are potentially defamatory with regard to an identifiable person or entity, witnesses will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that the witnesses comply with any such direction.

Before we hear from the witness, I propose we publish his opening statement on the committee's website. Is that agreed? Agreed. On behalf of the committee I extend a warm welcome to the Press Ombudsman, Mr. Peter Feeney. This committee has an oversight role over all ombudsmen and this is the first time the Press Ombudsman has appeared before us. The Office of the Press Ombudsman was established in 2008 and in 2010 SI 163 was approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas, recognising the Press Council and the Press Ombudsman. The Defamation Act 2009 states the principal objectives of the Press Council shall be to ensure the protection of freedom of expression of the press; the protection of the public interest by ensuring ethical, accurate and truthful reporting by the press; the maintenance of certain minimum ethical and professional standards among the press; and to ensure the privacy and dignity of the individual is protected. The world has changed since 2009 and there are difficulties with the regulation of social media. The online safety and media regulation Bill 2022 will, we hope, address some of these matters.

Mr. Feeney is no stranger to us and before becoming Press Ombudsman, he had considerable experience in public service broadcasting as editor of current affairs television at RTÉ. Before that he lectured in politics at the University of Ulster.

I suggest the Press Ombudsman makes his opening statement for ten minutes and we will then have some questions and comments from members. We ask each member to keep their time for questions and answers to five minutes and this will allow for members to come back in on a couple of occasions.

I invite Mr. Feeney, Press Ombudsman, to make his opening statement.