Michael Harty (Clare, Independent)
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This morning's meeting has been convened to carry out pre-legislative scrutiny on the general scheme of the assisted human reproduction Bill. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Ms Geraldine Luddy, Dr. Tony Holohan and Mr. Paul Ivory of the Department of Health, and Mr. Liam Woods, Dr. Colm Henry, Dr. Jerome Coffey and Dr. Peter McKenna of the HSE, who will assist us with our scrutiny of the Bill.

I draw to the witnesses' attention the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee 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 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 or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also advise the witnesses that any opening statements they have submitted to the committee may be published on the committee's website after the meeting.

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 now ask Dr. Tony Holohan to make his opening statement.