Co-Chairman (Deputy Jerry Buttimer):

The purpose of this morning's session is to hear evidence on the impact of so-called legal high drug stimulants on communities. The committees are meeting jointly for the first time in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 84 and Seanad Standing Order 72. I again thank the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality for facilitating this important and historic meeting.

Deputy Caomhghín Ó Caoláin who invited the representative of the Cavan-Monaghan drug awareness project to come is, unfortunately, tied up in the Dáil asking questions of the Minister for Health. He sends his apologies, but he will be here as soon as he can.

Should those watching and listening to the proceedings at home wish to make representations to us on the issue, they can do so through our e-mail address which is available on the Oireachtas website.

I wish to advise witnesses 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 Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or an 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 Houses or any official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Apologies have been received from Senator Imelda Henry and Deputies Eamonn Maloney and Ciara Conway. The Co-Chairman, Deputy Stanton has also received an apology from a member.