Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Before we get to the main item on today's agenda, the minutes of the sub-committee's meeting of 9 May have been circulated to members for consideration. Are they agreed? Agreed.

Our topic today is a consideration of issues relating to services and supports for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD. To enable the sub-committee to consider this matter, I am pleased to welcome Mr. Ken Kilbride, CEO; Dr. Sonia Morris, board member and senior clinical psychologist; and Dr. Kate Carr-Fanning, board member, ADHD Ireland.

I am also pleased to welcome from the Changing Lives Initiative, Miss Christina Riordan, project manager, and from Archways, Dr. Sean McDonnell, deputy CEO, and Mr. Hugh Doogan, CEO.

Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such 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 outside the Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members of the constitutional requirements that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. It will not be permitted for a member to participate where he or she is not adhering to this constitutional requirement. Therefore, any member who attempts to participate from outside the precincts will be asked to leave the meeting. In this regard, I ask any members participating via MS Teams to confirm that they are on the Leinster House campus prior to making a contribution.

To commence our discussion I now invite Mr Ken Kilbride to make opening remarks on behalf of ADHD Ireland.