Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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On behalf of the committee, I welcome the Hungarian ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Mr. Gergely Bánhegy and the deputy head of mission, Mr. Tamás Szilágyi. I hope I have pronounced that reasonably correctly. Our discussion today is on the priorities for the Hungarian Presidency of the European Council which is starting and will take place over the latter part of this year.

Before we begin our session, there is a note on privilege that I must read. 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 that person or entity. 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.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against either 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 Leinster House in order to participate in public meetings. I cannot permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave.

With that, I call the ambassador to give his opening statement.