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

I warmly welcome the representatives of the model Bill team, Professor Kieran McEvoy of Queen's University Belfast and Mr. Daniel Holder of the Committee on the Administration of Justice, to discuss the response of the model Bill team to the UK Government's Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill.

Before we begin, I will explain the usual limitations on parliamentary privilege and the practices of the committee. The evidence of witnesses present or who give 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 a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts. Witnesses are also asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter of proceedings should be given. They should respect directions given by the Chair and the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or 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 good name of the person or entity.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or 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. Members may only contribute from within the confines of Leinster House, even if they are joining the meeting on Microsoft Teams.

I invite Professor McEvoy to make his opening statement. There is a vote ongoing in the Seanad and several members of the committee are absent but will return shortly.