Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I ask those present to note that this meeting will be carried live on Virgin Media channel 207, Eir Vision channel 504 and Sky channel 574. Members are asked to switch off their mobile phones or adjust them to airplane mode so that they do not interfere with the recording of this morning's meeting. Apologies have been received from Deputy Kelleher. This morning we will consider the 2017 Revised Estimates of the Department of Health. The Dáil has ordered that the revised Vote 38 - Health - be referred to this committee for our consideration. I welcome the Minister for Health, Deputy Harris, and his officials. Briefing material providing details of the Revised Estimates has been circulated to Deputies. I propose that the committee will proceed to consider the indicative appendix of Vote 38 programme by programme. If Deputies wish to ask questions or comment on any specific subheads, they can do so after we have considered the indicative appendix programmes. I ask the Minister to make his opening statement.