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

I welcome Ms Denyse Campbell, Mr. Paul Gallagher and Mr. Tim Fenn from the Irish Hotels Federation, IHF; Mr. Eoghan O’Mara Walsh from the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation, ITIC; and Mr. Adrian Cummins from the Restaurants Association of Ireland, RAI.

Before we begin, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards reference 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 the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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 with regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

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 requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House.

I invite Ms Campbell from the IHF to make her opening statement.