Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Our next business is an engagement with the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman, FSPO. 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 witnesses, I propose we publish the opening statements on the committee's website. Is that agreed? Agreed. On behalf of the committee, I extend a warm welcome to Ms MaryRose McGovern, the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman, and Ms Áine Carroll, director of corporate and communications services. I suggest that the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman should make her opening statement for approximately ten minutes. We will then have questions and comments from members. Each member will have approximately ten minutes and members may speak more than once. If we all adhere to the allotted time we can get in a second round of questions. I now invite Ms McGovern to make her opening statement.