Micheál Carrigy (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

Ireland faces many challenges in respect of the delivery of housing. I am pleased we have the opportunity to consider this and other related matters with the following representatives from the County and City Management Association, CCMA: Mr. Eddie Taaffe, chief executive of Waterford County Council and chairperson of the CCMA housing committee; and Ms Elaine Leech, director of housing, social and community development in South Dublin County Council. They are very welcome. I thank them for giving of their time to come and be the first witnesses before the housing committee in the Thirty-fourth Dáil.

Before we begin, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses with regard to references witnesses may make to another person 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. 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, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

The opening statement has been circulated to members in advance. I now invite Mr. Taaffe to make his opening remarks.