Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Brian O'Donnell and Mr. Bernard O'Regan of the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies who are with us in respect of recent reports in the media that some residential centres for people with disabilities run by voluntary bodies are not in compliance with the regulations as laid down in the Health Acts.

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 the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and they are 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 witnesses that any submission or opening statement they make to the committee may be published on the committee 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. I invite Mr. Brian O'Donnell to make his opening statement.