Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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We are now back in public session. This morning's session will involve an examination the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board financial statements for 2017. From the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board, we are joined by Mr. Tom Costello, chairman; Mr. John Pollock, project director; Dr. Emma Curtis, medical director; and Mr. Jim Farragher, finance officer. From the Department of Health, we are joined by Mr. Jim Breslin, Secretary General, and Ms Tracey Conroy, assistant secretary. From the HSE, we are joined by Mr. Dean Sullivan, deputy director general and chief strategy and planning officer, and Mr. Jim Curran, HSE head of estates.

I remind members, witnesses and all those in the public gallery to switch off their mobile phones. That means switching them to aeroplane mode as merely putting them on silent can still interfere with the recording system. I draw the attention of witnesses 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 so do, 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.

Members of the committee are reminded of the provisions of Standing Order 186 to the effect that the committee shall refrain from inquiring into the merits of a policy or policies of the Government or a Minister of the Government or the merits of the objectives of such policies. While we expect witnesses to answer questions put by the committee clearly and with candour, witnesses can and should expect to be treated fairly and with respect and consideration at all times in accordance with the witness protocol. We will start by hearing the opening statement from the Comptroller and Auditor General.