Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have received apologies from Senators O'Loughlin and Clonan. The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss disability, mental health and ageing. On behalf of the committee I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Butler; Ms Siobhán McArdle, assistant secretary and head of social care, mental health and drugs policy, and Dr. Philip Dodd, mental health policy and clinical specialist in the mental health unit, of the Department of Health; and Mr. Niall Brunell, principal officer, disability policy unit of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability Integration and Youth. The Minister may call on officials to speak briefly for clarification during the meeting where a specific or technical point arises. The officials can clarify issues for the committee. Any follow-up questions should be put to the Minister because she is the person accountable to the committee. I am aware there is a wide range of issues to be discussed today. If necessary, further and more detailed information on certain issues raised can be sent to the clerk to the committee for circulation to members. Before we begin, members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity by name in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of the persons or entity. Therefore, if a statement is potentially defamatory in nature to a person or entity, the member will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that such direction is complied with. I call on the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Butler, to make her opening statement.