Michael Harty (Clare, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This morning, we are meeting representatives of the Irish Association of Speech & Language Therapists, IASLT, in respect of the standard operating procedure, SOP, for the assessment of need under the Disability Act 2005, which was recently commenced by the HSE. Members will recall we met occupational therapists, the Psychological Society of Ireland, PSI, the Dedicated Children's Advocacy Warriors, DCA Warriors, and the HSE on 27 June and, therefore, this is a follow-up meeting.

On behalf of the committee I welcome Ms Vickie Kirkpatrick and Ms Deirdre Kenny of the IASLT. I draw their 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 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. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter 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 or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. The opening statements submitted to the committee may be published on the committee 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 invite Ms Kirkpatrick to make her opening statement.