John Brady (Wicklow, Sinn Fein)
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This morning, we will engage with An Garda Síochána to discuss its appropriation accounts for 2023. We welcome the following officials from An Garda Síochána: the Garda Commissioner, Mr. Drew Harris; executive director of finance, Mr. Aonghus O'Connor; chief corporate officer, Ms Siobhán Toale; deputy commissioner, Dr. Shawna Coxon; and deputy commissioner, Mr. Justin Kelly. We are also joined by a representative from the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation: Mr. Daniel O'Callaghan, principal officer with the justice Vote. Finally, we are also joined by officials from the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, including the Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, who is a permanent witness to the committee, and Ms Mairead Leyden, audit manager. They are all very welcome.

I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege, and the practice of the Houses as regards references the 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. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Witnesses are also 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 their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I invite Mr. McCarthy, the Comptroller and Auditor General, to make his opening remarks.