Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Good afternoon. For the information of the witnesses, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses with regard to reference they may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or witnesses who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to both the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded 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 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 their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I welcome our next witnesses on behalf of the committee. From the Irish National Teachers Organisation, we are joined by Ms Máirín Ní Chéileachair, assistant general secretary and head of education and research, and Mr. David O'Sullivan, assistant general secretary of the legal, industrial relations and equality section. From the Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland, we are joined by Ms Moira Leydon, assistant general secretary, education and research, and Ms Miriam Duggan, vice-president of ASTI.

Before we hear from our witnesses, I propose that we publish their opening statements on the committee's website. Is that agreed? Agreed. I invite Ms Ní Chéileachair of the INTO to make her opening statement.