Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Our next business is engagement with Mr. Joe Ryan and his colleagues at the HSE regarding the closure of vital health services in counties Galway, Cork and Tipperary, which relates to Nos. P00020/23, P00042/21 and P00048/21. Members of Loughrea concerned citizens group for the Seven Springs day centre, along with members of St. Brigid's action group and Ms Joanna Curtis for the Owenacurra centre, are in the Public Gallery. I welcome them all to the proceedings.

I will explain some of the limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards reference witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to both the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. They are again 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 may 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 that they comply with any such direction.

I propose we publish the opening statements of the witnesses on the committee’s website. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I extend a warm welcome to Mr. Joe Ryan, national director, operational performance and integration at the HSE; Mr. John Fitzmaurice, chief officer, Community Healthcare West; Ms Tess O’Donovan, chief officer, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare; and Ms Helen McDaid, head of older persons services, South East Community Healthcare. Mr. Ryan will read out the opening statement, which I suggest should last approximately ten minutes. We will then have questions and comments from members. Each member will have approximately ten minutes and may speak more than once.