Keira Keogh (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We are joined by Ms Madeleine Clarke, chairperson of the board of Tusla, who is accompanied by Ms Kate Duggan, chief executive. Mr. John McDaid, chairperson of the Adoption Authority of Ireland, is joined Mr. Ross Higgins, principal officer in the information services and records unit, and Mr. Mark Kirwan, administrative officer in the domestic adoption unit. They are all welcome to the meeting, and I congratulate both chairpersons on their new positions. I wish them every success.

In accordance with Dáil Standing Order 104 (7) and Seanad Standing Order 87, an Oireachtas committee has the power to engage in public session with the chairperson designates of State boards or agencies under its remit, and to discuss with them their strategic priorities for their role as chairperson. While the committee is aware that both chairpersons before the committee this morning have already been appointed to their roles, in order to be compliant with the stated Standing Orders of both Houses, they have been invited to appear before the committee this morning.

Before we begin, there are a few housekeeping matters I am obliged to go through. Any members on Microsoft Teams should only use the chat function to make the team on site aware of any technical issues or urgent matters. It should not be used to make general comments during the meeting.

In advance of inviting our witnesses to deliver their opening statements, I want to advise them of the following in relation to parliamentary privilege: they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation they make to the committee. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege. It is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure that this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Witnesses will be allocated three minutes' speaking time to deliver their opening statements. The opening statements will be followed by a questions and answers session with our members. I will call Ms Clarke first and then Mr. McDaid.

I invite Ms Clarke to give her opening statement.