Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Today's meeting will be split into two sessions to discuss the issues facing ambulance services. In the first session, the committee will engage with representatives from SIPTU. I welcome from the union Mr. Ted Kenny, sector organiser, Mr. Geoff McEvoy, industrial organiser, Mr. Greg Lyons, ambulance sector president, Mr. Luke McCann, Dublin Fire Brigade, DFB, convener, and Mr. Peter Ray, president of the Irish Ambulance Representative Council, IARC.

Before we hear the opening statements, I point out to our guests that uncertainty regarding parliamentary privilege will apply to their evidence given from a location outside of the parliamentary precincts of Leinster House. If, therefore, they are directed by me to cease giving evidence on a matter, they must respect that direction.

I should declare an interest in that I am a member of SIPTU. I invite Mr. Kenny to make his opening remarks. He is very welcome.