Chairman:

We are running a little behind time but, hopefully, as with any good pilot, we will make up some time along the way. I welcome the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone, and her officials.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The Department's briefing material and that provided by the committee secretariat have been circulated to members. I call on the Minister to make her opening statement.