Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Dr. Santino Severoni from the World Health Organization. For years migration has been an issue in Europe. The expansion of the European Union and the increasing numbers of migrants from various parts of Africa and Asia have added to the issues arising from it.

Migrants' health is an inter-sectoral issue which includes a significant foreign affairs involvement. In the past few months the committee has discussed the impact and consequences of the Ebola outbreak in countries in western Africa. In addition, members have concerns about the health issues affecting some members of the Diaspora.

The format of the meeting is that we will hear Dr. Severoni's opening statement. We will hear the responses of members and bank all of the questions raised and then hear a final response. The normal warning about the use of mobile phones applies. I ask members to decommission their mobile phones for the duration of the meeting because they affect the sound and recording systems and create numerous problems.

While members of the committee have absolute privilege, guests, on the other hand, have qualified privilege. Members and guests should always try to ensure they do not mention persons outside the Houses who are not in a position to defend themselves or their interests in a way which might be derogatory or defamatory. I ask them to observe this rule.

I welcome Dr. Severoni. The issue he is about to discuss with the committee is one on which it has engaged previously. Obviously, given current and developing circumstances, the issues of the past six months serve as a useful backdrop to his presentation. The normal presentation lasts ten minutes. I ask members to ask their questions and make their comments in a way which will facilitate the satisfactory and efficient conclusion of the business to be conducted.