Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The issue for discussion this morning is the clinical guidelines for the introduction of abortion services and in our first session this morning we are meeting representatives from the Medical Council, the Irish College of General Practitioners, and the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in this regard.

I welcome Dr. Suzanne Crowe and Mr. Bill Prasifka from the Medical Council. I also welcome Dr. John O’Brien, Dr. Mary Favier and Dr. Tony Cox representing the Irish College of General Practitioners. I welcome Dr. Peter Boylan and Dr. Clíona Murphy from the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, who are also representing the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, RCPI. I wish to draw attention to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also wish to advise witnesses that their opening statements will be published on the committee's website after this meeting. 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. I invite Dr. Suzanne Crowe from the Medical Council to make her opening statement.