Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am delighted to welcome the officials from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to continue the discussion on the working conditions and skills shortages in the hospitality sector. I welcome Mr. Cian Ó Lionáin, assistant secretary with responsibility for tourism and sport, and Mr. Bernard O'Shea, principal officer of the tourism service division.

Opening statements will be followed by questions from members of the committee. As the witnesses will probably be aware, the committee may publish opening statements on our web page after the meeting.

Regarding parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references that may be made to other persons in evidence, the evidence of witnesses physically present or of those who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and the statute of absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice whereby they should not criticise nor 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 that person or entity. If, therefore, their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of any identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect they should not make comment on, criticise nor make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Ó Lionáin to make his opening statement on behalf of the Department.