Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have not received any apologies but I understand that Senator Craughwell will not be able to be with us for the entire meeting. I can call him early if it helps.

Joining us today from Amnesty International Ireland are Mr. Colm O'Gorman, executive director and a former Member of these Houses; and Mr. Tim Hanley, campaigns officer. Joining us remotely from South Africa is Mr. Saleh Higazi, deputy director, Middle East and north Africa region of Amnesty International. On behalf of the joint committee, I welcome them all.

I remind our witnesses that we have not yet left the Covid restrictions entirely behind. In view of that they will see some members of the committee here wearing masks. Some members of the committee are joining us remotely from their offices, including Deputy Stanton and Senator Wilson.

Mr. O'Gorman is no stranger to the committee and I welcome him back. The format of the committee is that we will hear the opening statements of the witnesses and we will then proceed to a discussion, involving questions and answers with members of the committee. I ask members to be concise in their questions to allow all members an opportunity to participate.

We may have a second round, should members so desire.

I remind witnesses of the long-standing parliamentary practice that we should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make that person or entity identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of a person or entity. Therefore, if statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, the witness will be directed to discontinue his or her remarks and it is imperative than any such direction be complied with.

For witnesses attending remotely outside the Leinster House complex, there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege. As such, they might not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as does a witness physically present in the room.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise, or make charges against any person outside the House or an official, either by name or in a way that makes that person identifiable. I remind members that they may only participate in the meeting if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex. That is either in this room or from offices within the Leinster House complex.

I am very pleased to call on Mr. O'Gorman to introduce his colleagues and make his opening statement. I thank him and his delegation for meeting the committee this afternoon.