Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Mr. Fred McBride, CEO of Tusla, and his colleagues Mr. Jim Gibson, chief operating officer, Mr. Cormack Quinlan, director of policy and strategy, and Ms Tara Downes, legal services. I thank them for coming before the committee today.

Before we commence, in accordance with procedure I am required to draw your attention 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 your evidence to the committee. However, if you are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and you continue to so do, you are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of your evidence. You are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and you are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, you 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones or switch them to flight mode. They interfere with the sound system, make it difficult for reporters to report the meeting and adversely affect televised coverage and web streaming.

I would also like to remind members of the provisions of Dáil Standing Order 59(3) which states: "a matter shall not be raised in such an overt manner so that it appears to be an attempt by the Dáil to encroach on the functions of the Courts or a Judicial Tribunal" and Seanad Standing Order 47(3) which states: "a matter shall not be raised in such an overt manner so that it appears to be an attempt by the Seanad to encroach on the functions of the Courts or a Judicial Tribunal".

I also advise witnesses that any submission or opening statement they have made to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting. I understand that the witnesses will make a short presentation, which will be followed by questions from members of the committee. I invite Mr. McBride to make his opening statement.