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

Apologies have been received from Senators Frances Black and Rónán Mullen. We have an engagement with representatives from IBEC; Mr. Fergal O'Brien, executive director, lobbying and influence; Ms Nikki Gallagher, head of public affairs; and Mr. Michael D'Arcy, programme lead for the IBEC-CBI joint business council. On behalf of our committee, I welcome them to the meeting.

I will read the note on parliamentary privilege, which we read for all of our witnesses. There are some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses. The evidence of witnesses who are 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 locations outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts, 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 meeting 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 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, her or it identifiable.

I call on Mr. O'Brien to make his opening statement.