Mairéad Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy John Brady. As this is my first meeting as Cathaoirleach, I must make the following declaration in attend in accordance with Standing Order 104(3)(a). Dearbhaím go sollúnta go ndéanfaidh mé, go cuí agus go dílis agus a mhéid is eol agus is cumas dom, oifig Chathaoirleach an Choiste um Chuntais Phoiblí a fheidhmiú gan scáth gan fabhar, na rialacha mar atá siad leagtha síos ag an Teach seo a chur i bhfeidhm go cothrom neamhchlaonta, ord a choimeád agus cearta agus pribhléidí comhaltaí a chaomhnú de réir an Bhunreachta agus na mBuan-Orduithe.

All in attendance are very welcome. I remind those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones are in silent mode or switched off. I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references 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. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure that this privilege is not abused. 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 and witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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 that makes him or her identifiable. Members are also reminded of the provisions within Standing Order 218, that the committee shall refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits of the objectives of such policies.

The Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, is a permanent witness to the committee. He is accompanied by Mr. John Crean, deputy director of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

This morning, we will engage with representatives from the Health Service Executive to examine the 2023 financial statements of the Health Service Executive and the Report on the Accounts of the Public Services 2023 - Chapter 17: The Health Service Executive’s integrated financial management system.

We are joined by the following representatives from the HSE agus go raibh míle maith acu as teacht os comhair an choiste. Is iad: Mr Bernard Gloster, chief executive officer; Mr. Stephen Mulvany, chief financial officer; Dr. Colm Henry, chief clinical officer; Ms Sandra Broderick, regional executive officer HSE Mid-West; and Dr. Andy Phillips, regional executive officer HSE South West. We are joined by the following officials from the Department of Health: Ms Louise McGirr, assistant secretary; and Mr. Patrick McGlynn, principal officer. Tá fáilte rompu ar fad.

I call the Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. Seamus McCarthy, to make his opening statement.