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

I have received apologies from Senator O’Loughlin. The purpose of today’s meeting is to have a discussion on disability inclusivity and participation in political and public life to mark the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December 2022. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. John Dolan and Mr. Ciarán Delaney of the Disability Stakeholder Group and Mr. Pat Clarke, vice president of the European Disability Forum. Also joining us remotely are Ms Annette Costello and Mr. Robbie Sinnott of the Disability Stakeholder Group.

On privilege, those present in the committee room are asked to exercise personal responsibility in relation to Covid. All witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. If they engage in what is deemed to be potentially defamatory offences and if there is a direction from the Chair to cease, it is imperative that they comply with such a direction.

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 or entity outside the Houses in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

We are very honoured this morning to welcome members of the Oireachtas Work Learning, OWL, programme, who are joining us in the Public Gallery. We have Jordan, Laura, Barry, Kirby, Stephen, Amy, Thomas, Fionán, Liam, Jessica and Jane. They are very welcome. I hope they are enjoying the OWL programme. It is an honour to have them with us this morning in the Public Gallery. I hope they enjoy the proceedings.

Without further ado, I invite Ms Costello to make the opening statement on behalf of the Disability Stakeholder Group.