Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I remind members, delegates and those in the Public Gallery to turn off their mobile phones as they interfere with the sound and broadcasting systems. I welcome everyone here today and thank them for appearing before the committee. The witnesses have been invited here to discuss Petition No. P00011/18 from Ms Josephine Boles. The petition concerns mandatory training for Irish mainstream schoolteachers on the needs of children with spectrum disorders.

Before inviting the witnesses to address the meeting, I draw their 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 it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They 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, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I also advise the witnesses that their opening statement and any other documents they have submitted to the committee may be published on its website after this 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.

The witnesses' presentation has already been circulated to members. I remind them that their presentation should not exceed ten minutes in duration. I invite Mr. Jim Mulkerrins, principal officer at the Department of Education and Skills, to make his opening statement. We are also joined by Mr. Eddie Ward, principal officer with the special education section of the Department of Education and Skills, and Mr. Adam Harris from AsIAm. I will call on members to ask questions when the presentations have concluded. I invite Mr. Mulkerrins to give his opening statement.