Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In our first session, we will meet Mr. Fred Barry in advance of his appointment as chairperson of the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board, NPHDB, and ask that he outline to us his strategic vision for his role. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Barry to the committee and thank him for his attendance. I draw his attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, the witness is protected by absolute privilege in respect of his evidence to this committee. However, if Mr. Barry is directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and he continues to do so, he is entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of his evidence. He is directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and is asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, he 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. I also wish to advise him that any opening statement he has submitted to the committee 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 invite Mr. Barry to make his opening statement.