Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

When giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means witnesses have a full defence in any defamation action relating to anything said at a committee meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse that privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on an issue at the Chair's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard. They are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that, insofar as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made against an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses who give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts. They may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Privilege against defamation does not apply to publication by witnesses outside the proceedings held by the committee of any matters arising from those proceedings.

In this session we will hear from representatives from the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association, ICSA. I welcome Mr. Eddie Punch, general secretary, and Mr. Fergal Byrne, chair of the wool steering committee. I invite them to give an opening statement, after which we will have a question-and-answer session.