Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In our second session of the morning we will get an update from the Sláintecare implementation office on progress with the Sláintecare programme. I welcome Ms Laura Magahy, executive director of the Sláintecare programme implementation office, Mr. Colm Ó Conaill of the Department of Health, Mr. Dean Sullivan, chief strategic and planning officer with the HSE, Ms Ciara Mellett, Sláintecare programme implementation office and Dr. Gráinne Healy, chairwoman of the Sláintecare citizen and staff engagement and empowerment steering group.

I draw the attention of witnesses 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 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 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I invite Ms Magahy to make her opening statement, which I believe is in the form of a PowerPoint presentation.