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

We are meeting today with representatives of the Irish Consortium on Gender Based Violence, ICGBV, to discuss the ongoing work of the organisation, particularly on women, peace and security and the prevention of gender-based violence in conflict settings. I refer as well to the importance of the equal participation of women and girls in all parts of society, with special reference to peace and security. The Irish Consortium on Gender Based Violence is an Irish-based alliance of international human rights, humanitarian and development organisations, including international NGOs, Irish Aid and the Defence Forces. On behalf of the joint committee, I welcome back Ms Mary van Lieshout, deputy CEO, GOAL, who is no stranger to this committee, along with Ms Abby Ryan, co-ordinator of the ICGBV, and who again is no stranger to our committee, and Mr. Maurice Sadlier, programme director, World Vision Ireland, WVI.

The format of today's meeting is well known to our guests, witnesses and members. We will hear an opening statement, which will be followed by a discussion and questions and answers with members of the committee. I ask the members to be concise in their questions to allow all members of the committee the opportunity to engage in what we might regard as full participation. I understand from Deputy Clarke that she has to step out for an engagement, but I am keen for us to hear her valued contribution.

I remind guests and witnesses 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 that person in any way identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of that person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory regarding an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. For witnesses attending remotely from outside the Leinster House campus there are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and, as such, they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness physically present in our meeting room does. That does not apply in this case, because I think all our witnesses are in the committee room here with us. This is welcome in the context of the earlier Covid-19 restrictions.

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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make that person in any way identifiable. I also remind members that they are only allowed to participate if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex, either here or in their offices.

With those formalities completed, I am pleased to call Ms Van Lieshout to make her opening statement. I believe Ms Ryan and Mr. Sadlier will also contribute to the opening statement. I thank them all for being with us.