Evanne Ní Chuilinn (Fine Gael)
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Apologies have been received from Deputies Alan Kelly, Sinéad Gibney, and Brian Brennan and Senator Malcolm Noonan.

Today's meeting has been convened to commence the committee's scrutiny of matters relating to the regulation of online platforms and supports to improve online safety and participation. From the Department of Culture, Communications and Support, I welcome Ms Tríona Quill, assistant secretary with responsibility for broadcasting and media, and Mr. Seamus Hempenstall, principal officer with responsibility for digital and media plurality. From Coimisiún na Meán, I welcome Ms Niamh Hodnett, online safety commissioner, Dr. John Evans, digital services commissioner, Ms Tanya Warren, director of policy, and Mr. Wayne Moroney, director of platform supervision.

I will invite the witnesses to deliver an opening statement, which is limited to five minutes. Statements will be followed by questions from members of the committee. As the witnesses are probably aware, the committee may publish the opening statement and presentation on its webpage. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I would like to clarify some limitations on parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses as regards references witnesses 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 in respect of the presentation 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 Chair to ensure that 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 reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.