Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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Apologies have been received from Senator Craughwell who is representing the committee at the migration conference in Brussels today. Deputy Haughey will be needed in the Chamber for the next couple of hours so we understand that he must be excused. I remind members to ensure that their mobile phones are switched off. This is important as they cause serious problems for broadcasting, editorial and sound staff. Today, we have an engagement with Mr. Gerry Kiely, Head of the European Commission's Representation in Ireland about the White Paper on the Future of Europe. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Kiely and Mr. Andy Klom to today's meeting. The White Paper presented by the European Commission on 1 March sets out the possible paths for the future of Europe. Europe faces many great challenges from globalisation, the impact of new technologies on society and jobs, security concerns and the rise of populism. Of course, Ireland faces the challenge of the impact of Brexit and an EU without the UK. The debate and engagement across the EU on what Union we all want in the future is very important. This committee intends to engage with this subject in depth and hold a series of meetings after the summer to engage with citizens and organisations about what Ireland and Irish citizens would like to see. It is very useful for us to look at the white paper and consider it in detail as a starting point.

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 invite Mr. Kiely to make his opening statement following which we will hear questions from members. I thank him for taking time out from his busy schedule to be here.