Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

We continue our engagement with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the review and consolidation of planning legislation. I welcome back to the committee Ms Maria Graham, assistant secretary, planning division; Ms Mary Jones, principal officer; Mr. Eugene Waters, assistant principal officer, planning review section; and Mr. Colin Ryan, senior planning adviser. I thank them for the time they have given to the committee on this. Members have been circulated the opening statement and briefing and the previous meeting documents.

I will read a quick note on privilege before we begin. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, to participate in public meetings. Witnesses attending in the committee room are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their contribution to today's meeting. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. Both members and witnesses are expected not to abuse the privilege they enjoy. It is my duty as Chair to ensure this privilege is not abused. 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 they comply with any such direction. 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 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 Ms Graham to make her opening statement.