Michael Harty (Clare, Independent)
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In this second session we are meeting representatives of the Chiropractic Association of Ireland, CAI, to discuss the impact on the chiropractors of the transposition of Council Directive 2013/59/EURATOM laying down basic standards for protection against the dangers arising from the exposure of ionised radiation. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Tony Accardi, Ms Lyndsey O'Leary, Mr. James Cosgrave and Mr. Richard Brown of the Chiropractic Association of Ireland.

I draw 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. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do in respect of a particular matter, 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, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I also wish to advise that any opening statements made to the committee may be published on the committee's website after this 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 invite Mr. Tony Accardi of the Chiropractic Association of Ireland to make his opening statement.