Conor McGuinness (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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Witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means a witness has a full defence in any defamation action for anything said at a committee meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on an issue at the Chair's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard. They are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made against an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts - I do not believe we have any today - are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts. They may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Privilege against defamation does not apply to publication by witnesses outside the proceedings held by the committee of any matters arising from the proceedings.

That is the formal part done. I warmly welcome the chairperson designate, Dr. Shane McCarthy, as well as Ms Treasa Langford and Mr. Michael Mulloy, who are accompanying him. His opening statement has been forwarded to the members. Given that they have had a chance to look through it, I ask Dr. McCarthy to give a two-minute synopsis, if that is okay, and then we will proceed to a very brief session of questions and answers.