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

We are now in public session. Apologies have been received from Deputy Frank Feighan, Mr. Mickey Brady, MP, and Ms Claire Hanna, MP.

On behalf of our committee I welcome Mr. Martin Robinson, director of strategy, and Dr. Stuart Mathieson, research manager, InterTradeIreland to discuss the all-Ireland economy. I thank both of them for attending today.

Separately, I would like to welcome the fact that the Northern Executive looks like it will be up and running soon. Hopefully, as a committee, we welcome that and welcome you engaging actively with the Assembly and Ministers. Perhaps we will visit Belfast fairly soon and if we can, through the good offices of different members, try to meet some of the key players in the new Executive when it is formed, if that is agreed.

I will 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 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 are to 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. 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 neither criticise nor 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 the good name of that person or entity.

Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that we 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, her or it identifiable.

I call Mr. Martin Robinson to make his opening statement. Our guests are very welcome. We will have an informal and, hopefully, very informative discussion.