Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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On behalf of the committee, I welcome Dr. Shana Cohen and Mr. Tiarnán McDonough of TASC Ireland, the think-tank for action of social change. Today's discussion will be on citizens' attitudes to democracy and the rule of law. I thank them both for joining us today in one of our final meetings as a committee.

Before their opening statement, I will go through the note on privilege.

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 their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue your remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside of 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 Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings.

With that done, I call Dr. Cohen to make her opening statement.