Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We are back in public session. In this session we are meeting with representatives from the Centre for Health Policy and Management at Trinity College Dublin to get their views on the Sláintecare implementation strategy. I welcome Dr. Sara Burke, Professor Steve Thomas and Dr. Bridget Johnston.

I wish to draw the attention of the witnesses to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on 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 asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Any opening statements made to the committee will be published on our 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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Professor Thomas to make his opening statement.