David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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In this part of our meeting we will have a discussion on the data protection package. I welcome Mr. Billy Hawkes, Data Protection Commissioner, and Mr. John O'Dwyer, deputy commissioner, and thank them for attending. They are invited to make an opening statement of about five minutes in duration, which will be followed by a question and answer session with members.

Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the joint committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against a person or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

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 or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Hawkes to make his contribution.