Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour) | Oireachtas source

This evening's engagement is with representatives from the Nevin Economic Research Institute and Social Justice Ireland. They are very welcome. The committee has agreed to revisit the indexation of the welfare and taxation system against the background of the recommendations contained in its report on the topic, which was published in July 2022. I welcome: Dr. Tom McDonnell, co-director, and Mr. Ciarán Nugent, economist, from the Nevin Institute; and Ms Susanne Rogers, research and policy analyst, and Mr. John Mc Geady, CEO, from Social Justice Ireland.

Before we begin, I am required to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references the witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to the committee. This means that they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty, as Chair, to ensure this privilege is not abused. 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 directive.

Members 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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him, her, or it identifiable. I also remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place which Parliament has chosen to sit, namely Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

I ask Dr. McDonnell to deliver his opening statement.