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

Deputies Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin and Catherine Byrne and Senators Colm Burke and Imelda Henry apologise for their absence. Deputy Billy Kelleher must speak in the Dáil in one minute.

This is the fifth in the series of discussions on end-of-life issues. I welcome Mr. Odhrán Allen, Dr. Regina McQuillan, Dr. Paul D'Alton and Ms Orla Keegan and thank them for being present. I remind everybody present to switch off their mobile phones. I wish to draw the attention of witnesses 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. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given. They are asked to respect the parliamentary practice 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 any person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I thank everybody for being present. We have had four very informative sessions and I am sure this session will be equally important. I invite Mr. Odhrán Allen, director of mental health for the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network, GLEN, to make his opening statement.