John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)

This morning we will engage with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to discuss its appropriation accounts for 2023. We welcome the following officials from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage: Mr. Graham Doyle, Secretary General; Mr. Fintan Towey, assistant secretary of the water division; Ms Caroline Timmons, assistant secretary of the housing policy and standards division; Mr. David Kelly, assistant secretary of the homelessness, rental and social inclusion division; Mr. Paul Benson, assistant secretary of the social housing delivery division; and Mr. Paul Hogan, assistant secretary of the planning division.

Finally, we are also joined by a representative from the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Ms Jenny Connors, principal officer, housing Vote. They are all very welcome here this morning.

I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses as regards references witnesses 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. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything said at the meeting. Witnesses are, however, expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory regarding an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative any such direction is complied with.

Witnesses are also 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 to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. If their statements are potentially defamatory regarding an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I ask Mr. Seamus McCarthy, Comptroller and Auditor General, to make his opening remarks.