Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have the usual statutory warning in relation to privilege. I do not need to read it out as everybody knows what it is anyway. We cannot mention or identify people, persons or places outside the arena, and if people are joining the meeting from outside the precincts of Leinster House, they have no privilege.

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the implementation of Sláintecare. To enable the committee to consider this matter I am pleased to welcome Mr. Leo Kearns, chair of the regional health areas advisory group. All those present in the committee room are asked to exercise personal responsibility to protect themselves and others from the risk of Covid-19. Incidentally, no matter how well one looks after oneself, it is still spreading and very much alive.

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 otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if any of 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.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against persons outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask members partaking via MS Teams that, prior to making their contributions, they confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House complex.

I invite Mr. Kearns to make his opening remarks.