Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members to ensure mobile phones are switched off for the duration of the meeting as they interfere with the broadcasting equipment of the Houses, even if on silent mode. Are the minutes of the meeting of 22 November agreed? Agreed.

We will have two sessions today. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Ms Áine Lynch, CEO of the National Parents Council Primary, NPCP; Mr. Paul Rolston, communications director of the National Parents Council Post-Primary, NPCPP; Mr. Paul Gilligan, CEO of St Patrick's Mental Health Services; and Ms Hilary McAlea, principal of Corpus Christi National School in Moyross, Limerick. The witnesses are here to discuss mental health supports in schools and tertiary education. I will invite them to make brief opening statements of five minutes each. The committee will publish the opening statements on its website following the meeting.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her 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 by the chair to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative to comply with such direction. Following the opening statements, there will be exchanges with members. I invite Ms Lynch to make her opening remarks.