Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We will continue examining the national cancer strategy. The next group of witnesses comprises Dr. Ana M. Terrés, head of research and development at the HSE, Dr. Jerome Coffey, national cancer control programme, NCCP, at the HSE, Mr. Michael Conroy, principal officer in the cancer policy unit at the Department of Health, Ms Judith Corcoran, assistant principal in the cancer policy unit at the Department of Health, and Ms Teresa Maguire, head of research services at the Department of Health. I thank them for attending and apologies for keeping them waiting.

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 do so, 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 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. Any opening statements that the witnesses may have made for the committee may be published on the committee's 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I invite Mr. Conroy to make his opening statement.