Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of this meeting is to engage with Mental Health Reform, Inclusion Ireland, the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies and the Not for Profit Business Association on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its relevance for health and well-being. We will look at some themes and specific areas for consideration, including disability and disabling conditions throughout the life course; response to planned anticipation of full inclusion; creating an enabling community; public services other than those of health - whether they are a hindrance or a help; and whether budget 2018 matters.

On behalf of the joint committee, I welcome Dr. Shari McDaid and Ms Caroline McGuigan, CEO of Suicide or Survive, appearing on behalf of Mental Health Reform; Ms Kathryn O'Shea and Ms Sarah Lennon of Inclusion Ireland; Mr. Brian O'Donnell and Mr. Christy Lynch of the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies; and Ms Kathleen O'Meara and Mr, Brendan Lennon of the Not for Profit Business Association.

By virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I advise witnesses that any submission or opening statement they make to the committee may be published on the committee website after the meeting.

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.

We have four separate submissions. There is a long submission from the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies so I ask its representatives to summarise rather than present the full submission. I now call on Dr. McDaid to make her opening statement on behalf of Mental Health Reform.