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

In a sporting sense, I also congratulate Professor O'Shea on his great victory last Sunday. We look forward to meeting him on the first Sunday in September.

This meeting is an important and extremely topical one on the issues of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, which are faced by many families and communities. Members of this committee are aware of the issues which arise when one is growing old. Our elderly population are a pivotal part of the health system, so it is important to examine the issues involved. Today's discussion is therefore opportune and welcome.

Before we begin, I must 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 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 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 call Professor O'Shea to make his opening remarks.