Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I welcome from the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council Professor Michael McMahon, acting chairperson; Dr. Eddie Casey, chief economist; and Mr. Killian Carroll, economist.

Before we begin, as is my duty, I will explain the limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses regarding references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation they make to the committee. This means that they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Chair to ensure this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or any official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, in order to participate in the meeting. I will not permit a member to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

I now invite Professor McMahon to give his opening statement.