Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In our first session today we shall meet with representatives from the foetal anti-convulsant syndrome forum, FACS, the Health Products Regulatory Authority, HPRA, and the HSE. On behalf of the committee I welcome Ms Joan O'Donnell, Ms Karen Keely, and Mr. Peter Murphy from the foetal anti-convulsant syndrome forum; Dr. Joan Gilvarry and Dr. Almath Spooner of the HPRA; and Mr. Kilian McGrane, Dr. John Murphy, Dr. Peter McKenna and Ms Cora Flynn from the HSE.

Before the meeting commences, I draw 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 Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. The opening statements submitted to the committee will 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Ms Joan O'Donnell to make her opening statement.