Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the healthcare and related needs of older persons and the general scheme of the health (amendment) (licensing of professional home support providers) Bill 2024, of which the committee is carrying out pre-legislative scrutiny. To continue our consideration of the matter, I am pleased to welcome from ALONE Mr. Seán Moynihan, chief executive officer, Mr. Frank Dillon, head of communication and fundraising, and Ms Gráinne Loughran, senior policy and advocacy officer. The committee also invited Sage Advocacy to the meeting, but it indicated it was not available and conveyed its apologies. It sent us its views on the legislation, for which I thank it.

I will read a note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity either 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 their statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

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 also remind members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex 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. In this regard, I ask any member participating via Microsoft Teams to confirm, prior to making his or contribution to the meeting, that he or she is on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I invite Mr. Moynihan to make his opening remarks on behalf of ALONE.