Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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We resume discussion of the national broadband plan, NBP. From the University of Limerick I welcome to the meeting Professor Eoin Reeves, head of the department of economics, and Dr. Dónal Palcic, lecturer in economics, to discuss the national broadband plan.

I draw the attention of witnesses 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 joint committee. However, if they are directed by the Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, 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. Any submission or opening statement provided to the committee 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members to turn off their mobile phones or to switch them to flight mode as they interfere with the sound system. I understand both witnesses will make opening statements. I invite Professor Reeves to make his opening statement.