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

The committee will now resume its consideration of the recent report of the Mental Health Commission on the vision of child and adolescent mental health services, CAMHS, in the State. I am pleased to welcome from the HSE Mr. David Walsh, national director community operations, Mr. Donan Kelly, assistant national director for child and youth mental health, and Dr. Amanda Burke, national clinical lead for child and youth mental health.

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 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. Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment, 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 identifiable.

I welcome Mr. David Walsh who will make his opening remarks on behalf of the HSE.