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

I ask all those present to switch off their mobile telephones. I welcome the delegation from Camphill Communities of Ireland to the second session and apologise for the delay. The number of votes called in the Chamber this morning suggests parliamentary democracy has gone into overdrive. As members and those watching and listening at home will be aware, Camphill Communities of Ireland provides support services to people with special needs. I welcome from Camphill Communities of Ireland, Ms Miriam Moffitt, Mr. Joe Lynch, Mr. John O'Connor and Ms Anne Finn and thank them for making themselves available for this meeting.

I draw the attention of the 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 this committee. However, if they 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 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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Joe Lynch, national governance co-ordinator of Camphill Communities of Ireland, to make an opening presentation.