Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of this session is to engage with Dr. Niall Herity on the independent clinical review of the provision of a second catherisation laboratory at University Hospital Waterford. On behalf of the joint committee, I thank him for making himself available to engage in this discussion.

I draw Dr. Herity’s attention to the fact that, by virtue of under section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the joint committee. However, if Dr. Herity is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continues to do so, he is entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of his evidence. He is directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and is asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, he 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.

I advise the witness that any submission or opening statement that he makes to the committee may be published on the committee's website after this 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.

I invite Dr. Herity to make his opening statement.