Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I draw the attention of witnesses to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses 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 so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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.

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 House or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I ask everyone present to ensure their mobile telephones are turned off or switched to aeroplane safe or flight mode.

As I stated, the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the national strategy for higher education to 2030 and the higher education system performance framework 2014-16. I am pleased to welcome from the Higher Education Authority, Mr. Tom Boland, chief executive officer, Mr. Fergal Costello, head of system governance and performance management, and Ms Sarah Fitzgerald, system governance and performance management. I invite Mr. Boland to make the first of two presentations on behalf of the HEA. Mr. Costello will make the second presentation, after which members will ask questions. Their opening statements will be published on the committee website after the meeting.