Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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I wish to draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they will be 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 they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also advise the witnesses that the opening statements they have submitted will be published on the committee's website after the meeting. 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 advise the witnesses and those in the Visitors Gallery that the meeting is being broadcast live so we must switch off our mobile telephones or put them on aeroplane, safe or flight mode as otherwise they interfere with the broadcasting equipment.
Today's meeting is on the future provision of education in schools for which the archdiocese of Dublin has responsibility, and the possible reconfiguration of schools which may result in proposals for the opening, closure or amalgamation of schools. In recent times concern has arisen on the part of pupils, parents, teachers and communities about plans to open, close or amalgamate schools in a number of locations including Cork and Dublin. The reason for these plans are varied and include falling enrolments, duplication of facilities and moves to divest responsibility for schools or to have a greater range of patrons.
Last week the joint committee considered the matter with the Edmund Rice Schools Trust, and today I am pleased to welcome the archdiocese of Dublin represented by Ms Anne McDonagh, director of education, Ms Catherine Hennessy and Mr. Declan Lawler. I invite Ms McDonagh to make a presentation on behalf of the archdiocese of Dublin.