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

In this session, we are meeting representatives of the HSE to discuss issues relating to vaginal mesh implants. I welcome: Ms Catherine Donohoe, general manager, commercial unit, who has responsibility for the treatment abroad scheme and cross-border directive acute operations; Dr. Clíona Murphy, clinical director, national women and infants health programme; Mr. Robert Kidd, assistant national director, acute operations; and Dr. Suzanne O’Sullivan, urogynaecologist, Cork mesh centre. Dr. O'Sullivan is only available for the first half an hour of the meeting. If members have questions about mesh centres, they should indicate this to the clerk and we will deal with those questions first.

All witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable, or to otherwise engage in a speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or identity. Therefore, if the witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory with respect to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such directions.

As I said earlier, there is a pending litigation arising out of the use of mesh devices. Those cases have yet to come before the courts, which will decide the issues of fact and legal liability. In light of the constitutional separation of powers and the respect the Oireachtas must show for the courts, this hearing should not prejudice or attempt to second-guess or influence the outcome of that litigation. Witnesses and members should therefore avoid comments which in effect prejudge the outcome of those cases, such as allegations of negligence or legal liability.

I call on Mr. Kidd to make his opening remarks.