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

Apologies have been received from Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor. The purpose of today's meeting is to further public awareness of living with a disability. On behalf of the Joint Committee on Disability Matters, I welcome, from Family Carers Ireland, Ms Catherine Cox, head of communications and carer engagement, and Ms Jane Johnstone, caring employers promotions officer and family carer. They are very welcome to our first session. A wide range of issues will be discussed today and, if necessary, further and more detailed information on certain issues raised can be sent to the committee for circulation to members after the meeting.

Before we begin, I will read a note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity in such a way as to make him or her identifiable or engage in any speech that may be regarded as damaging to the good name of a person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory, they may be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such directions. Members are reminded of the same parliamentary practice and the constitutional requirement that they be physically present at a public meeting from within the confines of the Leinster House complex. I ask those members who are participating online to indicate that they are within the precincts of Leinster House prior to making their contributions.

Without further ado, I call Ms Johnstone to make her opening remarks.