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

I welcome Ms Geraldine Luddy from the Department of Health and Ms Caroline Spillane, chief executive officer, and Professor Kieran Murphy, president, of the Medical Council. Before we commence, 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 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 Ms Luddy to make her presentation.