Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I want to introduce our witnesses on childcare from committee room 1. From the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, I welcome Ms Phil Ní Sheaghdha, general secretary, Mr. Tony Fitzpatrick, director of industrial relations, and Ms Niamh Adams, head of library services. I also welcome Mr. Paul Bell from SIPTU, and I see Mr. Patrick Cole is with him.

I wish to advise our guests 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. 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. We expect witnesses to answer questions asked by the committee clearly and with candour. However, witnesses can and should expect to be treated fairly and with respect and consideration at all times in accordance with the witness protocol. If any witnesses have any concerns in that regard I ask that they raise them immediately with me, as Chair.

I ask Ms Ní Sheaghdha to make her opening statement. As is customary, I ask that she limit her statement to five minutes and deliver it as circulated in advance to members.