Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the report of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, IFAC: What Climate Change Means for Ireland's Public Finances. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the following representatives from IFAC: Professor Michael McMahon, who is appearing remotely, Mr. Niall Conroy and Mr. Killian Carroll.

Before we start, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege, and the practices of the Houses with regard to references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. 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, one of today's witnesses is giving their evidence remotely from a place outside the parliamentary precincts, and as such may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness who is physically present. Such witnesses may think it appropriate to take legal advice on the matter.

Witnesses are again reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that 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, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity.

Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks, and it is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I remind Members 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. 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 these public meetings. I will not permit a Member to participate where they do not adhere to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

I invite Professor McMahon to give his opening statement.