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

We have received apologies from Deputies Catherine Byrne, Regina Doherty and Peter Fitzpatrick.

I remind witnesses, members and those in the public Gallery that their mobile telephones should be turned off rather than in the silent position because they interfere with the broadcasting equipment and it is unfair to members of staff. This morning we are holding the second of three hearings to examine the issue of organ donation in Ireland. I thank all our witnesses for being here and apologise for the short delay in starting due to some private business of the committee.

Members have already received the briefing from the Department of Health and an excellent research paper from the Oireachtas Library and Research Service. I thank the Oireachtas Library and Research Service for the sterling work that it provides to members of the committee and of the Houses. This morning we will hear the medical perspective on the subject from medical professionals working at the coal face of organ donation, and from hospitals around the country. We will also hear from the legal community.

I welcome all the witnesses, Professor David Hickey, Professor Peter Conlon, Dr. James O'Rourke, Dr. Colman O'Loughlin, Dr. Ruairí Dwyer and Dr. Liam Plant. We will be joined shortly by Mr. J.P. McDowell. I thank the witnesses for being here this morning.

Before I commence I remind witnesses about the rules on privilege. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if a witness is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in regard to a particular matter and continues to do so, the witness is entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of his evidence. Witnesses 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. 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.

With that I call on Professor David Hickey to make the opening remarks.