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

I thank the witnesses for their attendance as we continue our hearing. From Tusla, I welcome Mr. Pat Smyth, interim chief executive, Mr. Jim Gibson, chief operations officer, Ms Colette Walsh, director of human resources, Ms Frances Haigney, general manager, and Mr. Cormac Quinlan, director of transformation and policy. I welcome members as well as viewers who may be watching our proceedings on Oireachtas TV.

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 this committee. However, if they are directed by it 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. They are directed to give evidence only in connection with the subject matter of these proceedings 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 any 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 witnesses to turn off their mobile phones, as they interfere with the sound system.

I advise the witnesses that any submission or opening statement they make to the committee will be published on the committee's website after this meeting.

After his presentation there will be questions from the members of the committee. I invite Mr. Smyth to make his opening statement.