Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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Apologies have been received from the Cathaoirleach, Senator Black.

I welcome the witnesses. They will be presenting virtually to our meeting to discuss the mental health (amendment) Bill. I welcome from the HSE Mr. Michael Ryan, head of mental health engagement and recovery, national mental health; and from Mental Health Reform, Ms Fiona Coyle, CEO, and Ms Bernadette Grogan, policy and advocacy co-ordinator. You are all very welcome to this meeting.

I must give some advice on parliamentary privilege. Before we hear the witnesses' opening statements, I need to point out to them that there is uncertainty as to whether parliamentary privilege will apply to their evidence from a location outside of the parliamentary precincts of Leinster House. Therefore, if they are directed by me to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter, they must respect that direction.

Without further ado, I call Mr. Ryan from the HSE to make his opening remarks.