Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In this second session, we are meeting with officials from the Department of Health to discuss the order passed by the Dáil on 24 April and by the Seanad on 25 April 2018 on the proposal that both Houses approve the following regulations in draft: the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 (Section 95(3)) (Variation of Title: Dietician) Regulations 2018; and the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 (Section 95(3)) (Variation of Title: Speech Therapist) Regulations 2018.

On behalf of the committee I welcome Ms Deirdre Walsh and Mr. Aidan Tumbleton of the Department of Health. I 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 the evidence they give to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in regard to a particular matter and continue to so do, 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 they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should neither criticise nor make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also advise them that any opening statements they make may be published on the committee's website after this 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 now invite Ms Walsh to make her opening statement.