Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Arising from our meeting last week, there was a proposal from Senator van Turnhout that we would discuss current practice in relation to the cystic fibrosis unit at St. Vincent's Hospital. I welcome Professor Charles Gallagher, Mr. Gerry O'Dwyer, Mr. Nicholas Jermyn, Ms Martina Queally and Ms Mary Godfrey. Mr. Ray Mitchell from the HSE is also present. I remind members and people in the Visitors Gallery that mobile telephones should be turned off for the duration of the meeting as they interfere with the broadcasting equipment even when on silent mode.

By virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give this committee. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and they continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make charges against any person or persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Members of the committee are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice and rulings of the Chair to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or persons outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

We are in public session and the proceedings of the meeting are being televised. This is a very sensitive and important matter. I hope we will receive a full report from Mr. O'Dwyer and the other witnesses on the circumstances surrounding admission of cystic fibrosis, CF, patients in St. Vincent's Hospital and the actions taken by management of the hospital. Also, you might present an update on any clinical programmes on cystic fibrosis across the country. I invite Mr. Gerry O'Dwyer to open proceedings.