Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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As we have a quorum, we will commence. I remind members to switch off their mobile phones. The first item on the agenda today is a meeting with representatives from Migrants Right Centre Ireland. I welcome Ms Edel McGinley, director of Migrant Rights Centre Ireland. She is joined by her colleagues, Ms Kate O'Connell, community and youth worker, and Mr. Pablo Rojas Coppari, policy and research officer. I thank the witnesses for taking the time to appear before the committee today.

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 also advise witnesses that any submission or opening statements they make to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting.

I understand that Ms McGinley will make a short presentation, which will be followed by questions from members. I invite Ms McGinley to make her opening statement.