Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)

The joint committee will today consider the legal and policy gaps in adult safeguarding. To commence our consideration of this matter, I welcome from Safeguarding Ireland, Ms Patricia Rickard-Clarke, chairperson, Ms Annmarie O'Connor, programme manager, and Mr. Mervyn Taylor, member of the board. From the Irish Association of Social Workers, I welcome Ms Caroline Walker-Strong, chief operations officer, Mr. Liam Keogh, principal social worker, and Dr. Sarah Donnelly, associate professor of social work in UCD.

I will start with 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 such 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 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 outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Ms Rickard-Clarke to make the opening statement from Safeguarding Ireland.