Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Today we are meeting with Ms Emily O'Reilly, European Ombudsman, on her annual report for 2021 and and other related matters.

I wish to explain to witnesses some limitations to parliamentary privilege, and the practices of the Houses with regard to references they 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 both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. Witnesses are again reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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 in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks, and it is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Before we hear from our witnesses, I propose that we publish the opening statement on the committee’s website. Is that agreed? Agreed. On behalf of the committee, I extend a warm welcome to Ms O'Reilly, European Ombudsman. She will make an opening statement, for which she will have ten minutes. We will then have questions and comments from members, who will be confined to ten-minute slots, which will allow members to come in a second time.

I invite Ms O'Reilly to make her opening statement.