Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I remind members who are participating remotely that they need to do so from within the Leinster House complex only. I did not receive any apologies.

Today we will engage with Dr. John Evans, digital services commissioner, to discuss the operation and resourcing of the new Coimisiún na Meán. As members will be aware, Coimisiún na Meán was established further to the provisions of the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022. It has been designated as Ireland's Digital Services Coordinator and is responsible for implementing and enforcing the EU regulation known as the Digital Services Act, DSA, in Ireland. I welcome the digital services commissioner, Dr. John Evans, to the committee. He is joined by Mr. Tiernan Kenny, director of communications and public affairs with Coimisiún na Meán.

Before we begin, as I always do, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses as regards references that may be made to another person in evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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 by me to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

The opening statement has been circulated to all members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I now invite Dr. Evans to make his opening remarks.