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

I thank Mr. McBride for his opening statement and acknowledge the speed with which he responded to the joint committee's invitation to appear. I believe the invitation was issued late on a Friday evening and was accepted first thing on the following Monday morning. I thank Mr. McBride for that without hesitation. As everyone will understand, the reason we invited him to appear before us was that the confidence of members of the joint committee, as individuals and parents, in Tusla was shaken to its foundations by a high profile revelation in the media. In the meantime, a tribunal of inquiry has been established to investigate the matter. As Chairman, I am conscious that it is my responsibility to ensure the committee does not cross over into the work of the tribunal of inquiry as it investigates the high profile case reported in the media in recent weeks. I advise members that this is my responsibility under Standing Orders and precedent. For this reason, I will not allow specific questions to be asked on the case reported in the media because we cannot prejudice the work of the tribunal of inquiry as it seeks to get to the bottom of that matter. Notwithstanding those remarks, the joint committee is concerned to find out about the practices in place in Tusla. All members have a shared concern for the welfare of children. We would appreciate, therefore, if Mr. McBride would be as helpful as possible and answer questions to the fullest extent possible. I do not wish to stifle discussion, other than to ensure we do not stray into the high profile case of recent weeks. I ask Deputy Rabbitte to lead the way in a responsible manner.