Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome our witnesses for our resumed hearing on Covid-19 outbreaks in congregated settings. We are joined by our witnesses from committee room 1 this morning. From the Department of Health we have Mr. Jim Breslin, Secretary General; Ms Kathleen MacLellan, assistant secretary, social care division; and Mr. Niall Redmond, principal officer of the social care division. From the HSE we have Mr. Paul Reid, CEO; Dr. Colm Henry, chief clinical officer; and Mr. David Walsh, national director of community operations.

I wish to advise the witnesses 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 manner as to make him, her or it identifiable.

Members are reminded of the provisions within Standing Order 186 that the committee shall refrain from enquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits of the objectives of such policies. We expect witnesses to answer questions asked by the committee clearly and with candour, but witnesses can and should expect to be treated fairly and with respect and consideration at all times in accordance with the witness protocol.

I invite Mr. Breslin to make his opening statement and, as I have done previously, ask that he please limit it to five minutes as it has been circulated in advance.