Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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In the first session of this committee meeting, we will engage with AFrI and the Transnational Institute.

I will read out an important notice regarding privilege. 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. All witnesses are 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 witnesses' 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 members 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 who might be attending remotely of the constitutional requirement that members must be physically present within the confines of the place in which the Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings.

On behalf of the committee, I welcome to the meeting from Afri Mr. Joe Murray, director, Professor John Maguire and Mr. Rob Fairmichael, board member; and from the Transnational Institute, Ms Niamh Ní Bhriain and Ms Bríd Brennan. Have we got everyone? We have. I invite Ms Ní Bhriain to give her opening statement.