Michael Harty (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

In this session the committee will meet representatives of the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland, AOTI, the Psychological Society of Ireland, PSI, and the Dedicated Children's Advocacy Warriors, DCA Warriors, to discuss the new standard operating procedure for assessment of need under the Disability Act 2005, which has recently been commenced by the HSE.

I welcome Mr. Odhrán Allenand Ms Aoife O’Malley from the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland; Dr. Catherine Long and Dr. Michael Stoker from the Psychological Society of Ireland; and Ms Margaret Lennon and Ms Ruth Gilhool of Dedicated Children's Advocacy Warriors.

I draw attention to the fact that 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 Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. The opening statements submitted to the committee will 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.

Will witnesses and members please turn their mobile phones off or to flight mode, as they can interfere with the recording of the session?

I invite Mr. Odhrán Allen to make his opening statement.