Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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We are joined by officials from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and Ms Mahin Fitzpatrick from the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General. We are also joined by officials from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government who will assist in answering queries about the housing assistance payment, HAP, scheme which has taken over from the rent supplement scheme. We are joined by Ms Mary Hurley and Ms Marguerite Ryan. From the Office of the Revenue Commissioners we are joined by Mr. Keith Walsh and Mr. Kevin Cashell who may advise on the chapter dealing with PRSI contributions from the self-employed.

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 it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, 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 any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. While we expect witnesses to answer questions put by the committee clearly and with candour, they can and should expect to be treated fairly and with respect and consideration at all times in accordance with the witness protocol.