Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Our engagement today is with the Committee on the Administration of Justice, which is represented here in the committee room by Mr. Daniel Holder, deputy director, and online by Ms Una Boyd, immigration project solicitor and co-ordinator. They are both very welcome.

The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. However, witnesses and participants who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Witnesses are also asked to note that only evidence connected with the subject matter of the proceedings should be given. They should respect directions given by the Chairman and the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should neither criticise nor make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to that person's or entity's good name.

I call Mr. Holder to make his opening statement.