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

This morning we have two sessions. We must finish the first session by 11 a.m. at the latest to allow for turnover time. Our second session will start shortly after that. Is that agreed? Agreed.

Our first session concerns fertility issues in Ireland. I welcome Ms Geraldine Fitzpatrick, vice-chairperson of the National Infertility Support and Information Group, NISIG, who will make a presentation to us shortly. The group was established in 1996 by a number of dedicated people who needed or wanted to be in contact with others who understood the difficulties involved in conception and fertility. I welcome Ms Fitzpatrick and thank her for being here this morning.

Before we begin, I remind members and witnesses about privilege. Witnesses are protected by privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They 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 to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person 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 and 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 either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I apologise to members for the croakiness of my voice but I have a chest infection. We have received apologies from Deputies Peter Fitzpatrick, Regina Doherty and Billy Kelleher. Senator Imelda Henry is being replaced by Senator Martin Conway. I ask Ms Fitzpatrick to make her opening statement which will be followed by questions from members.