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

I apologise for the delay and I thank Dr. Niall Muldoon and Ms Deirdre O'Shea from the Office of the Ombudsman for Children for their patience.

Before we begin I remind witnesses of the position in regard to privilege. They are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if witnesses are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 and they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice or ruling of the Chair 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 to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Dr. Muldoon to make his opening remarks.