Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I would like to welcome back representatives from the HSE to our meeting this morning to discuss the closure of Owenacurra Centre in Midleton, County Cork. I welcome from the HSE Mr. Michael Fitzgerald, chief officer, community health organisation, CHO, 4; Mr. Jim Ryan, head of operations, mental health services, HSE community operations; Mr. Mark Kane, HSE estates; Mr. Kevin Morrison, acting head of mental health services; and Dr. Sinead O'Brien, executive clinical director, Cork mental health services.

Before the opening statements, I must point out to our witnesses that there is uncertainty as to whether parliamentary privilege will apply to your evidence from a location outside of the parliamentary precincts of Leinster House. Therefore, if you are directed by me to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter, you must respect that direction.

I call Mr. Michael Fitzgerald to make his opening statement. You are very welcome.