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

The purpose of today's meeting is to consider the preparedness of the hospital system for the expected seasonal increase in respiratory and other illnesses this winter. To commence the committee's consideration of this matter, I welcome from the HSE Mr. Bernard Gloster, chief executive officer, Dr. Colm Henry, chief clinical officer, Ms Mary Day, national director of acute operations, Mr. Joe Ryan, national director of operational performance and integration, and Ms Sandra Broderick, assistant national director for older persons services.

I will read a note on privilege. 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 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, her or it identifiable. I also 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 he or she is 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 any members taking part via MS Teams to confirm, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

To commence our consideration of winter preparedness I invite Mr. Gloster to make his opening remarks.