Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the committee, I start this morning by welcoming Dr. Kenneth McDonagh, who is the head of the school of law and government at Dublin City University, DCU, and Professor Ben Tonra, from the school of politics and international relations at University College Dublin, UCD, to discuss the recent developments in the EU on security and defence. They are both very welcome. I thank them for joining us.

Before we begin our session, I note the instructions on privilege. All 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 relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against either a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of Leinster House in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate if they do not adhere to this constitutional requirement.

We can now commence our session. I call Dr. McDonagh to start off proceedings. We will now hear his opening statement.