Michael Harty (Clare, Independent)
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During the second session of our meeting we will deal with workforce planning in the Irish health sector. On behalf of the committee, I would like to welcome from the Irish Medical Organisation, Dr. Pádraig McGarry, president, Dr. Matthew Sadlier, member of the consultant committee, Mr. Anthony Owens, director of industrial relations, and Ms Vanessa Hetherington, assistant director, policy and international affairs.

I wish to draw the attention of witnesses to 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 this 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 or her identifiable. I advise witnesses that any opening statements they make 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 invite Dr. McGarry to make his opening statement.