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

Apologies have been received from Stephen Farry, MP. On behalf of the committee I welcome, online, Dr. Ciara Fitzpatrick, lecturer in law at Ulster University, and, in person, Dr. Tom Boland, lecturer in sociology at University College Cork, to discuss the social protection systems on both sides of the Border and how they might operate in a unified or federal state.

I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses regarding references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. This is what we read to every witness. 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 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 those precincts, and they 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 should be given. They should respect directions given by the Chair and the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or 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 a 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 or her identifiable. I also remind members that they must be on the Leinster House campus to participate in the meeting.

I call Dr. Fitzpatrick to make her opening statement.