Catherine Noone (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have received apologies from Senator Lynn Ruane. I welcome viewers who may be tuned in at home. Before I introduce the witnesses, as usual, at the request of the broadcasting and recording services, I ask members, those in the Gallery and witnesses to ensure their phones, at the very least when their microphones are on, are off completely.

This afternoon's meeting will examine the ancillary recommendations of the Citizens' Assembly that fall within the remit of the Department of Health and the HSE. We have representatives from the Department and HSE with us and they are all very welcome. From the Department of Health we have Dr. Tony Holohan, chief medical officer and Ms Geraldine Luddy, principal officer, and from the HSE we have Mr. Liam Woods, director of the acute hospital division, Dr. Peter McKenna, clinical director of the national women and infants health programme, Mr. Killian McGrane, national programme director of the national women and infants health programme, Ms Angela Dunne, director of midwifery of the national women and infants health programme and Ms Janice Donlon, from the sexual health and crisis pregnancy programme.

Before I commence proceedings, it is fairly safe to assume that witnesses are familiar with the Defamation Act and the privilege implications, so I will save us all from going through them. If anyone wants me to read it I am very happy to do so. I call Dr. Holohan to make his presentation.