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

This week we continue with our series of meetings with the architects of the Good Friday Agreement. Former US Senate Majority Leader, Senator George J. Mitchell, is extremely welcome. There would not have been peace in our land without his efforts and without the efforts of the Presidents of the United States and its political parties. I recognise the wonderful contribution he has made to peace in our island over the years. Senator Mitchell's co-chairmanship of the party talks showed his unrivalled skills and ingenuity in bringing about the peace we so badly wanted. The Good Friday Agreement is 24-years-old and even at midnight tonight there is a deadline to try to get the Executive he worked so hard to establish up and running.

I will read the notice on parliamentary privilege that has to be read at every meeting. Witnesses are asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings 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.

If Senator Mitchell is comfortable with this process, we will have a 45-minute session, at which point we will have a 15-minute break and then we will have a second session.

We are very privileged to have Senator Mitchell present. Each group will ask a question. They may have copies of most, if not all, of the questions. I will call the party and the relevant member will ask Senator Mitchell a question and the Senator can reply as he wishes. If he is comfortable with that, we will proceed.