Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the meeting is to receive an update on the national paediatric hospital project, including the new children's hospital at St. James's Hospital and the development of urgent care centres at Connolly and Tallaght hospitals. From the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board, NPHDB, I welcome Mr. Fred Barry, chairman, who is joined by Dr. Emma Curtis, medical director. From Children's Health Ireland I welcome Professor James Browne, chairperson, and Ms Eilísh Hardiman, chief executive. From the Department of Health I welcome Ms Tracey Conroy, assistant secretary, acute care division, and Mr. Colm Desmond, assistant secretary, finance and evaluation division. From the HSE I welcome Mr. Dean Sullivan, deputy director general for strategy, and Mr. Jim Curran, head of estates.

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 it 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 or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Any opening statement made to the committee by witnesses may be published on its 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 Mr. Barry to make his opening statement.