John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are engaging today with the Financial Services Union, FSU. The witnesses are very welcome to the committee.

I remind the witnesses of the position regarding privilege. Members and witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him her or it identifiable.

We are joined from the Financial Services Union by Mr. John O'Connell, general secretary, and by Mr. Brian McDowell, head of communications and public affairs. The committee will hear an opening statement on behalf of the union. Our guests will be familiar with the process. We will then hear from members. Deputies Nash, Durkan and O'Callaghan have indicated. I invite one of our guests to make an opening statement on behalf of the union.