Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Senator Seery Kearney. The purpose of today's meeting is a discussion of the UNCRPD at local level and we are dealing with the issue of justice today. On behalf of the committee, I extend a warm welcome to representatives of An Garda Síochána, Mr. Padraic Jones, chief superintendent, Garda national community engagement bureau, and Mr. Seán Fallon, superintendent, and Ms Pauline Glennon, sergeant. They are very welcome. I welcome representatives from the Courts Service, Ms Angela Denning, chief executive officer, and Mr. Tom Ward, assistant secretary, superior courts operations directorate. They are very welcome.

Before we begin, witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity 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 relation to identifying a 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 same long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against persons outside of the Houses or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. Members contributing to the meeting remotely must be within the confines of Leinster House in order to speak.

Without further ado, I invite Mr. Jones to make his opening remarks.