Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Cairns and Senators Clonan and O'Loughlin. The purpose of today's meeting is a discussion on accessing justice. It is the resumption of a previous discussion. On behalf of the committee I welcome from the Irish Prison Service, Ms Caron McCaffrey, director general; Mr. Fergal Black, director of care and rehabilitation; Dr. Emma Regan, head of psychology; Ms Emer Campbell, chief nurse officer; and Mr. Mark McGoldrick, principal officer estates directorate. They are all very welcome to the committee.

Before we begin the meeting, I will go through some housekeeping matters. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity in such a way as to make him or her identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of a person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory, they may be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such directions.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any persons outside the Houses in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. Members can only contribute to the public meeting if they are within the precincts of the Leinster House complex.

Without further ado, I invite Ms McCaffrey to make her opening remarks.