Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of this morning's meeting is to engage with Mr. Ciarán Devane, the new chairman of the Health Service Executive. On behalf of the committee I welcome Mr. Devane to the meeting and congratulate him on his appointment. I wish him the best of luck. We have great expectations of the new board. Mr. Devane will outline his experience and strategic vision for his new role, particularly in light of the challenges we face in the implementation of Sláintecare. I note that the new board of the HSE held its first meeting last Friday.

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. I also advise the witnesses that any opening statements they make to the committee will 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 call Mr. Devane to make his opening statement.