Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

During this second session, we are meeting representatives of the Health Service Executive on the National Maternity Strategy 2016-2026 prepared by the maternity strategy steering group. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Liam Woods, national director, acute hospitals division, Ms Angela Fitzgerald, deputy national director, acute hospitals division, Mr. Kilian McGrane, national programme director for women and infants' health and Mr. Ray Mitchell.

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 it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, 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 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. I advise that any opening statement or other material submitted to the committee may be published on its website after the meeting.

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. As Mr. Woods's opening statement has been read, I now invite questions from members.