Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Dr. Micheál Collins from University College Dublin, UCD, Dr. Karina Doorley, Dr. Martina Lawless and Dr. Conor O'Toole from the Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, Dr. Tom McDonnell from the Nevin Economic Research Institute, NERI, and Ms Colette Bennett and Dr. Seán Healy from Social Justice Ireland. This is our first meeting on the report by the Commission on Taxation and Welfare. We will start by examining chapters 6 to 8, inclusive, and 14.

Before we begin I must 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, if evidence is being given remotely from a place outside the parliamentary precincts, witnesses may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as does a witness physically present. Witnesses are 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 relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

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.

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. I will not permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

With all that said, I invite Dr. Martina Lawless from the ESRI to make her opening statement.