Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein)
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Before we begin, I will read out some formal notices. I remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the place where the Parliament has chosen to sit, namely, Leinster House, in order to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting.

We are dealing with petition No. P00009/23 on reform of mental health services, submitted by Mr. Eoin O'Sullivan. Before we start, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. The witness is reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that he 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 or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if the witness' statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, he will be directed to discontinue his remarks. It is imperative that he comply with any such direction.

Before we hear from our witness, I propose that we publish his opening statement on the committee's website. Is that agreed? Agreed.

On behalf of the committee, I wish to extend a warm welcome to Mr. Eoin O'Sullivan, founder and managing director of Peace Inside, to discuss his petition. Mr. O'Sullivan will read out his opening statement. I suggest that he keep it to around approximately ten minutes, after which we will have questions and comments from members.

Each member will be given seven to ten minutes, which will allow them to contribute more than once. I now invite Mr. O'Sullivan to make his opening statement.