Tom Neville (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome those viewers who may be watching our proceedings on Oireachtas TV. The purpose of today's meeting is to have an engagement with Mr. Pat Rabbitte following his nomination by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone, as chairperson designate of Tusla with effect from 1 January 2019. This is an opportunity for the joint committee to discuss with Mr. Rabbitte his vision and strategic priorities for his term of office. I welcome Mr. Rabbitte to the meeting and thank him for appearing before the committee.

I draw the attention of the witness 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 they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind those present to turn off their mobile telephones or switch them to flight mode as they interfere with the sound system and make it difficult for parliamentary reporters to report the meeting. Television coverage and web streaming may also be adversely affected.

I advise Mr. Rabbitte that any submission or opening statement he has provided to the committee will be published on the committee website after this meeting. I call on Mr. Rabbitte to make his opening statement, after which there will be questions from committee members.