Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members and witnesses to ensure their mobile telephones are switched off for the duration of the hearing. We are starting promptly and on time, as we do every week. This is the second session in a series of hearings that the joint committee will be conducting over the next three days to discuss the implementation of the Government's decision following the recent publication of the expert group's report on matters relating to case A, B and C v. Ireland. I welcome Dr. Rhona Mahony, master of the National Maternity Hospital, Dr. Sam Coulter Smith, master of the Rotunda Hospital, and Dr. Mary McCaffrey from Kerry General Hospital, Tralee.

I remind witnesses that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in regard to a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are thereafter entitled only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Delegates are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given. Witnesses are further 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. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice or ruling of the Chair that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or persons outside the House or an official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I ask Dr. Rhona Mahony to make her opening remarks. She is very welcome.