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

We are now in public session. I begin by welcoming Ms Oonagh Fleming, Childcare Committees Ireland, CCI, chair and manager of Kerry County Childcare Committee, Ms Karen McCarthy, CCI national representative and manager of Clare County Childcare Committee, and Ms Karen O'Sullivan, CCI representative and manager of the Cork County Childcare Committee and thank them for making themselves available this morning and appearing before the committee.

Before we commence, in accordance with procedure I am required to draw their 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 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 so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They 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, 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, as they interfere with the sound system and make it difficult for the parliamentary reporters to report the meeting, as well as adversely affecting television and web streaming. I advise the witnesses that any submissions or opening statements made to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting. I understand the witnesses will make a short presentation, which will be followed by questions from members of the committee.

I invite Ms Fleming to make her opening statement. We will then take opening statements from her colleagues.