Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the supplementary report of the scoping inquiry into the CervicalCheck programme. On behalf of the joint committee, I welcome Dr. Gabriel Scally, Dr. Karin Denton and Mr. Shane McQuillan and thank them for coming. Mr. McQuillan is a partner in Crowe Ireland who leads the team that is providing logistical project management, investigative and analytical support for the inquiry.

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. I also advise that any opening statement made to the committee 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 Dr Scally to make some opening remarks.