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

I remind committee members, delegates and those in the Visitors Gallery to switch off their mobile phones or leave them in flight mode because they interfere with the broadcasting of proceedings. I welcome those watching the meeting via UPC or on the Oireachtas website. Deputies Catherine Byrne, Peter Fitzpatrick, Eamonn Maloney and Robert Dowds have sent their apologies.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the HSE's new implementation plan under the Haddington Road agreement. As members know, the general secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, INMO, Mr. Liam Doran, wrote to the joint committee requesting a meeting at the earliest possible date. I apologise to members for the early starting time and put everyone on notice that we must vacate the committee room by 1.30 p.m.

I invite Mr. Doran to make his opening statement.