Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The next item of business is our engagement with representatives of the Western Rail Trail campaign group, petition No. P00030/23, on creating a walking and cycling greenway on the closed railway from Sligo to Athenry.

Before we start, I wish to explain some limitations 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 of those who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to both the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. They are again reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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 respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Before we hear from the witnesses, I propose we publish their opening statements on the committee's website. Is that agreed? Agreed. On behalf of the committee, I wish to extend a warm welcome to members of the Western Rail Trail campaign, as well as the campaigners from Sligo, Mayo and Galway. These include, from the Western Rail Trail, Mr. Brendan Quinn and Mr. John Mulligan; from the Sligo Greenway Co-op, Councillor Marie Casserly from Sligo County Council; from the Kiltimagh-East Mayo Greenway campaign, Ms Bernice Brennan; and from the Quiet Man Greenway campaign in Tuam, Galway, Mr. Shaun Cunniffe. Mr. Michael Maye from the East Mayo Greenway Campaign is in the Public Gallery.

I suggest that the witnesses make their opening statements for approximately ten minutes. When all witnesses have made their opening statements, we will have questions and comments from members. Each member will have approximately ten minutes, which will allow members to come in for a second round of questions if they need to. I now call on Mr. Brendan Quinn to make his opening statement. Perhaps he will introduce the colleague who is next to speak when he has completed his statement.