Ciara Conway (Waterford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Apologies for the delay. We had some in-house business to conduct that always takes a little longer than envisaged. I remind Members and witnesses and those in the Visitors Gallery to ensure their mobile telephones are switched off for the duration of the meeting as they interfere with the broadcasting equipment even when on silent mode.

Before commencing I remind witnesses of the position of privilege. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. 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 to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or 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 either a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

In the first session this morning we look at developing a national strategy for coeliac disease. On behalf of the committee I welcome, from the Coeliac Society of Ireland Professor Nicholas Kennedy, honorary president, and Ms Gráinne Denning, CEO; Dr. Patrick Doorley, former member of the strategy and programmes management team, HSE, and Ms Richelle Flanagan, dietitian and board member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute.

To commence the meeting, I invite Professor Kennedy to make his opening statement.