Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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I call the meeting to order. Apologies have been received from Senators Freeman and Clifford-Lee.

I welcome everyone to the meeting, which will take place over two sessions. In the first, we will hear from the ISPCC on the issue of cybersecurity for children and young adults. In the second, we will hear from Mr. Fred McBride, CEO of Tusla, and some of his colleagues. We will then move back into private session to deal with housekeeping matters. The plan is to break at 10.30 a.m. and get out for 12 noon.

I apologise to our witnesses for the delay in starting the meeting. From the ISPCC, I welcome Ms Grainia Long, CEO, Ms Caroline O'Sullivan, director of services, and Ms Cliona O'Neill, director of policy and communications, and thank them for appearing before the committee and giving of their time.

Before we commence, in accordance with procedure I am required to draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matters of these proceedings is to be given and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

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 remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones or switch them to flight mode, as mobile phones interfere with the sound system, make it difficult for the parliamentary reporters to report the meeting and adversely affect television coverage and web streaming. I wish to advise the witnesses that any submission or opening statement they have made to the committee will be published on the committee's website after the meeting.

I understand that the witnesses will make a short presentation, to be followed by questions from members. I invite Ms Long to make her opening statement.