Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We are now in our second session discussing online safety, online disinformation and media literacy. I am delighted to welcome Dr. Leo Pekkala, deputy director of the Finnish National Audiovisual Institute, KAVI. I thank him for joining us today. The format of the meeting is such that I will invite our witness to deliver an opening statement, which is limited to three minutes and which will be followed by questions from my colleagues. As Dr. Pekkala is probably aware, the committee may publish its opening statements on its web page.

Before inviting Dr. Pekkala to deliver his opening statement, I wish to explain some limitations in relation to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses 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. However, witnesses who 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 the matter. Persons giving evidence from outside the jurisdiction should be mindful of their domestic law and how it may apply to the evidence they give. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, 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 witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in relation to any identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

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 ask Dr. Pekkala to deliver his opening statement.