Marc Ó Cathasaigh (Waterford, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I remind everyone that members participating remotely in this meeting are required to do so from within the Leinster House complex. I ask members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones as they interfere with the broadcasting equipment. I ask members participating remotely to use the "raise hand" function on Teams if they wish to contribute. I am pleased to continue our conversation on this important legislation and, in this regard, I welcome Mr. Liam Herrick, executive director of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, ICCL, and Mr. Ronan Kennedy, policy officer for the Democratic Freedoms initiative, who is also from the ICCL

Before we commence, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses regarding references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of a witness physically present or who gives evidence from within the parliamentary precinct is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege.

Witnesses are again 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 respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

The Department's briefing and supplementary information note has been circulated to members. I invite Mr. Herrick to make his opening statement.