Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Today, we have our second engagement with architects of the Good Friday Agreement. I welcome Mr. David Donoghue and Mr. Rory Montgomery. I thank them for giving of their time and attending. They are both distinguished former officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and were heavily involved in various aspects of the process that led to the Good Friday Agreement.

I will read a note on privilege. The evidence of witnesses physically present or giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to both the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. However, witnesses and participants who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts, and may consider it appropriate to seek legal advice on the matter. Witnesses are also asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter of the proceedings should be given. They should respect directions given by the Chair and the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should neither criticise nor make charges against any person, persons 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 person's or the entity's good name.

Members must not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person outside the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I ask our guests to note that some members will be appearing on the screen. We are very lucky that the committee consists of 16 Members of the Oireachtas. Ten of the 18 MPs elected to represent the North attend our meetings, although not all at the same time. We have a very good mix in the community. Unfortunately, we are missing the Unionist MPs, but everyone else attends. That is life. I invite Mr. Donoghue to make his opening remarks. He will be followed by Mr. Montgomery.