Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party)
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We resume our pre-legislative scrutiny of the general scheme of the residential tenancies (right to purchase) Bill. I have received apologies from Senator Fitzpatrick. I welcome from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage: Ms Catherine Comer, principal officer; and Mr. Liam Smyth, assistant principal. Their opening statement and the briefing were circulated to members.

I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place where the Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. Witnesses attending in the committee room are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their contributions. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. Members and witnesses are expected not to abuse the privilege they enjoy and it is my duty as Chair to ensure it is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members and witnesses 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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The opening statement will be available on the committee website after the meeting. I invite Ms Comer to make the opening statement.