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

Apologies have been received from Senators Seery Kearney and McGreehan.

The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss the national disability inclusion strategy, NDIS. On behalf of the committee, I warmly welcome Ms Renee Dempsey-Clifford, independent chair, and Mr. Dharragh Hunt, secretary, from the Disability Stakeholder Group, DSG, and Dr. Aideen Hartney, director, and Dr. Rosalyn Tamming, head of policy, research and public affairs, from the National Disability Authority, NDA.

Before we begin, witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not criticise or make charges against a person or entity in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be damaging to the good name of a person or entity. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory and they are asked to discontinue their remarks, it is imperative that they comply with such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that we should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. Members must also be within the precincts of Leinster House if they are participating remotely.

I invite Ms Renee Dempsey-Clifford to make her opening remarks.