Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome our guests, representatives of the W82GO! Weight Management Service at Temple Street Children's University Hospital, to the committee meeting. I welcome Dr. Grace O'Malley, chartered physiotherapist and multidisciplinary clinical lead, Dr. Sarah McGuire, senior clinical paediatric psychologist, Ms Nicola Sheridan, senior clinical specialist physiotherapist in paediatrics and Ms Michelle Strahan, senior medical social worker in child protection. They are most welcome to this morning's committee meeting.

Before we commence, in accordance with procedure, I am required to draw witnesses' 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 continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to 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 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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I remind members and all our guests to switch off their mobile phones or put them on flight mode, because whether they are on or muted they will interfere with our electronic communications systems, which will affect the broadcast quality and the job of parliamentary reporters.

I advise witnesses that any submission or opening statement submitted to the committee will be published on its website after the meeting. I understand the witnesses will make a short presentation today, followed by questions from members of the committee. I call on Dr. O'Malley to make her opening statement.