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

Apologies have been received from Mr. Stephen Farry MP. If it is agreed, we will continue the rota whereby we rotate and change the order of speakers for every meeting. The order will be Sinn Féin, Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, SDLP, Green Party, Sinn Féin, Labour Party, Independents and Aontú. We will allocate 15 minutes to each speaker - I understand Mr. Bertie Ahern is happy with that - and at the end of 15 minutes we will move on to the next questioner. We will try to ensure that everybody gets a fair opportunity to ask questions. No doubt, our distinguished guests will have the opportunity to reply.

I will read the notice on parliamentary privilege that has to be read at every meeting. I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically 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 does, and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Witnesses are also asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter 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 that person or entity's good name.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that members 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, her or it identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirements that they must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House in order to participate in meetings.

Before I call Mr. Bertie Ahern to make his opening statement, I acknowledge the fantastic work he has done as Taoiseach and previously in bringing peace to our country, and that he is one of the main architects of the Good Friday Agreement. His insights will be very helpful to this committee and to the country as we face into a very difficult situation, especially in Northern Ireland, with no assembly meeting, no North-South bodies and difficult east-west relations. Bertie, if I may call him that, is very welcome. I invite him to make his address.