Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

We are back in public session. We are meeting with representatives from the Land Development Agency, LDA. I apologise to the witnesses for the delay in starting. We had other business to deal with. I welcome Mr. John Coleman, chief executive officer, Mr. Phelim O'Neill, head of property, Ms. Dearbhla Lawson, head of strategic planning and Mr. Enda McGuane, head of asset management.

I will read out a note on privilege before we start. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place the Parliament has chosen to sit, namely Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. Witnesses attending in the committee room are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their contributions to today's meeting. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. Both members and witnesses are expected not to abuse the privilege they enjoy and it is my duty as Chair to ensure they do not do so. 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. Members and witnesses 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 House or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. The opening statement submitted to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting.

I now invite Mr. Coleman to make his opening statement on behalf of the LDA.