Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I ask everyone attending remotely to put their microphones on mute when not contributing so the committee does not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind all of those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones are on silent mode or switched off. Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings, they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

As they are within the precincts of Leinster House, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to the committee. 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.

Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the House or an official of the House either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

On the agenda for today's session is pension parity and working conditions for school secretaries and caretakers. I welcome the following witnesses from Fórsa, Mr. Andy Pike, national secretary, Ms Luisa Carty, chair of the Fórsa school secretary branch, and Mr. David Hearne, chair of the Fórsa caretakers' branch. We are delighted to have them here. I thank them for their time. I call Mr. Pike to make his opening statement.