Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In our second session on Irish health sector workforce planning, we are meeting representatives from the Irish Hospital Consultants Association, IHCA. I welcome Dr. Aine Burke, Dr. Laura Durcan, vice president, Dr. Donal O’Hanlon, president, Mr. Martin Varley, secretary general, Dr. Gabrielle Colleran, vice president, and Dr. Conall Kennedy, council member.

I wish to draw the attention of those in attendance to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to 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 or her identifiable. I also wish to advise witnesses that any opening statements they have made 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.