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

Apologies have been received from Senator Black. Today, we continue our meetings with the architects of the Good Friday Agreement project. We have met with a range of people involved in the peace process negotiations, both politicians and officials. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Gerry Adams. Mr. Adams is a former leader of Sinn Féin, a former Deputy for Louth and a former colleague of mine from the same constituency. He played a vital role in laying the groundwork for the peace process.

The note on parliamentary privilege is read to every witness. There are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards reference witnesses 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 of the 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 to participate in meetings.

I call Mr. Adams to make his opening statement.