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

I welcome Professor Michael Turner, who is professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at University College, Dublin. He is joined by Mr. Bob McDonnell, Mr. Martin McNicholl, and Dr. Aoife McKeating. I thank them for coming here this morning. As members will know, we have been dealing with the issue of maternity over the course of our programme. Deputy Byrne has raised an issue which we will address in the autumn as part of the national maternity strategy.

I draw the attention of witnesses to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on 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, 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 a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I remind all present that mobile telephones should be turned off. They interfere with the sound equipment.

I invite Professor Turner to make his opening remarks.