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

In our second session, we will continue our discussions regarding the integration of the LGFA, Camogie Association and the GAA. We will hear from the Gaelic Players Association, GPA and from representatives of GAA Scór, GAA Handball, GAA Referees, GAA Rounders and GAA Club Players. I warmly welcome them all to our committee room today.

I welcome Mr. Tom Parsons, CEO, GPA. He is joined by Gemma Begley, head of equality and players relations. On behalf of the committee, I also welcome the representatives from the GAA, namely, Aisling Groarke, Cormac Spain, David Britton, John Devaney, Iain Cheyne and Paula Magee. That is great; everybody now has been clearly identified.

The format of today's meeting is that I will invite our witnesses to deliver their opening statements, which are limited to three minutes. I ask them to stick to that time, because our times have gone askew completely. Witnesses are probably aware that the committee may publish the opening statements on its webpage. This will be followed by questions from my colleagues on the committee, who will have four minutes of speaking time allotted to them.

Before we proceed to opening statements I wish to explain some limitations in regard to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references they 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 in respect to the presentation they make to the committee. This means that they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they may say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Chair to ensure that it is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to any identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks.

I propose that we now proceed to the opening statements. I will begin by asking Mr. Parsons to speak on behalf of the GPA. He has three minutes.