Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)
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I have received apologies from Senator Tom Clonan. I have a few housekeeping matters to go through and the first is the declaration. In accordance with Standing Orders, I wish to make the following declaration:

I do solemnly declare that I will duly and faithfully and to the best of my knowledge and ability execute the office of Cathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on Health without fear or favour, apply the rules as laid down the by House in an impartial and fair manner, maintain order and uphold the rights and privileges of members in accordance with the Constitution and Standing Orders.

Good morning, members. I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed the Cathaoirleach of the Joint Committee on Health. I welcome members to the first meeting of the joint committee and look forward to working with you in the spirit of partnership and co-operation to address many of the issues that the Department of Health faces and the issues faced by the bodies under its remit. The role of this committee is important; we have crucial roles in scrutinising legislation and as a forum for public accountability and policy analysis. We will begin with a round of introductions so everybody gets to know each other. I propose that members introduce themselves and outline their background, their constituency, where they are from and their particular interest in health.

I am a TD for Cork South-Central. I am a new TD but I previously worked in the Oireachtas. Before that, I worked in human rights organisations with a particular interest in sexual and reproductive health. A key interest of mine is in the wider reform of the healthcare system and the delivery of Sláintecare to ensure we deliver universal healthcare. We will go around in a circle starting with Deputy Cullinane.