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

Before we get to the main item on today's agenda, the minutes of the committee meeting on 11 June have been circulated to members for consideration. Are they agreed? Agreed.

The purpose of the meeting today is to commence the pre-legislative scrutiny of the general scheme of the health (amendment) (licensing of professional home support providers) Bill 2024, which has been forwarded by the Minister for Health for consideration. To commence the committee's consideration of the matter, I am pleased to welcome from the social care division of the Department of Health, Ms Fiona Larthwell, principal officer, Mr. Tommy Sheridan, assistant principal officer, and Mr. Cody York, assistant principal officer; and from the Institute of Public Health, Professor Roger O'Sullivan, director of ageing research and development.

I will read a short note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity either 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 to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I also remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex in order to participate in public meetings. I will not be able to permit any member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside of the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any members participating via Microsoft Teams to confirm, prior to making their contribution to the meeting, that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I now invite Ms Larthwell to make her opening remarks on behalf on the Department of Health. She is very welcome.