Marc Ó Cathasaigh (Waterford, Green Party)
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Members who participate in the meeting remotely are required to do so from within the Leinster House precincts only. I remind those in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are switched off or in silent mode.

I welcome the witnesses. They are protected by absolute privilege in respect of what they say to the committee. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action in respect of anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege. It is my duty as Chair 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 reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity.

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

At the outset of the meeting and before we participate further, I take the opportunity to acknowledge the passing of the Cathaoirleach's brother, John Naughten. This committee has a remit for rural and community development. At the heart of that is talented and determined county councillors who go above and beyond to achieve local policy outcomes which can be a national example. There is little doubt in my mind but that John exemplified these qualities as a dedicated public representative and would have made an excellent TD should he have been elected. At this sad time, we are thinking of John's family - his wife, Breda, his daughters Emma, Leah and Orlaith, and all those who knew John. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

I invite members who may wish to say a few words to do so.

Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail)
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I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for allowing us a few minutes to speak about what has been a tragic weekend for the people of County Roscommon. It was very tragic for me. I happened to be at a football match where my son was playing on Friday evening. I was called to one side by the chairman of the county board to be told this news. I was stunned and shocked. I reiterate what you have said, a Leas-Chathaoirligh, John Naughten was an extraordinary individual. He was delighted to have been chosen as the Fine Gael candidate for the general election. I have no doubt but that he would have taken a seat. John Naughten was highly involved in rural and community affairs.

I will say what I said to the local media when they asked me: John Naughten did not understand the term "political opponent". I never saw him use politics against an opponent. He was an absolute gentleman. He will be missed terribly. I cannot come to terms with this myself. On Saturday week last, I spent the whole day with him and his lovely daughter at Ballyforan Fair. He put up pictures on Facebook about it. It is just tragic. We extend our sympathy to Breda, his wife, to Emma, Leah and Orlaith, to his poor mother, to Denis and to all the family. I have been in touch with Denis and he has been in touch with me in recent days. He is very thankful of the outpouring of support and sympathy from everybody, including his colleagues in the Oireachtas. Go ndéanfaidh Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I join in the words of sympathy. I did not know John Naughten, but I know that every local authority member in this country works very hard and is very dedicated. This is a dreadful tragedy and a huge shock. All of us here know Denis as a very fair-minded helpful individual. We all appreciate the shock it must have been to him when he got the terrible news. I join in expressing condolence to John's wife, Breda, to Emma, Leah and Orlaith, his children, to all his relatives and particularly to our colleague, Denis, who was about to leave politics and had great plans. This is an enormous set back to him personally. Ar dheis láimh Dé go raibh sé.