Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Buttimer. Members collectively wanted to proceed with this issue. We look forward to an engaging session with Mr. Walsh and his colleagues.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not criticise or make charges against any person on 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 regard 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 or identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings. Reluctantly, I will not permit members to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will reluctantly be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I would ask any member partaking via Microsoft Teams prior to making a contribution to confirm they are within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

Those attending in the committee room are asked to exercise personal responsibility to protect themselves and others from the risk of contracting Covid-19.

I invite Mr. Walsh to make his opening statement on behalf of TII. We received an opening statement from Mr. Walsh but that statement will have to be updated in light of today's events. When he is delivering his opening statement, I ask him to make reference to that point. It will come up during questioning, but if Mr. Walsh would like to make reference to the Government's announcement that charges are being deferred to next July, we would welcome it.

In the context that you may wish to do it as part of the opening statement, we very much welcome that. Obviously in the questioning from members, we will be bringing it up.