Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I remind members, witnesses and those in the Visitors Gallery to please ensure their mobile telephones are switched off for the duration of our meeting as they interfere with the broadcasting of proceedings even when in silent mode. They also interfere with members of staff.

This morning's meeting is divided into two sessions. The first is a meeting with representatives of Mental Health Reform from which I welcome Dr. Shari McDaid, director, and Ms Kate Mitchell, policy and research advisor. As members know, Senator John Gilroy is the committee's rapporteur in the area of mental health and will present a report in due course. We look forward to a very good discussion today on the priorities for the mental health service in Ireland. Mental health issues have a huge and profound impact on people's lives in all parts of society. We look forward to hearing from Mental Health Reform, which promotes and prioritises mental health services. I thank Dr. McDaid and Ms Mitchell for attending the meeting on behalf of a very powerful advocacy agency which campaigns for improved mental health services.

I remind witnesses regarding privilege. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they are to give to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter but continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence.

You are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and you are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, you should not criticise or make charges against any persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Members are reminded of a long-standing parliamentary practice and ruling of the Chair to the effect that members should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House, or any official by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

As we will have two parts to our meeting, is it agreed that we will conclude this section by 11.15 a.m. at the latest? Agreed.

I invite Dr. McDaid to make her opening remarks.