John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Senator Higgins. Today's meeting is with officials from AIB to discuss the bank's debt write-down or debt resolution policy. We are joined by Mr. Jim O'Keeffe, Ms Paula Duffy, Ms Rachel Naughten and Mr. Tom Kinsella. They are very welcome. Some of their colleagues are in the Public Gallery. They, too, are welcome.

Those present are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not criticise or make charges against a 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 the entity involved. I remind members that those on the campus have full privilege, but those joining us remotely might not have full privilege.

Before inviting Mr. O'Keeffe to give his opening statement, I draw attention to the media reports concerning individuals involved in this matter. We generally do not deal with individual cases, and I remind members and the witnesses of that. For purposes of transparency, I also put on record that I know one of the individuals who has been reported on in the newspapers.