Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the representatives from the Irish Association of Social Workers and the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland to our meeting this morning as part of the sub-committee pre-legislative scrutiny of the Mental Health (Amendment) Bill 2021. I welcome Mr. Vivian Geiran, chair, Irish Association of Social Workers and Mr. Eoin Barry, Irish Association of Social Workers member and chair of Social Workers in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, CAMHS, Special Interest Group. From the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland, I welcome Dr. Atiqa Rafiq, consultant specialist, later life psychiatry; Dr. Imelda Whyte, consultant specialist; child and adolescent psychiatry,; Dr. Lorcan Martin, vice president and consultant specialist, general adult psychiatry; and Dr. Norella Broderick, senior registrar, representing the college faculty of learning disability psychiatry.

Before we hear the opening statements, all members and witnesses are again reminded of the long-standing 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 him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

I call on Mr. Vivian Geiran to make his opening remarks.