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

We have received apologies from Senators O'Loughlin and Seery Kearney. The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss international co-operation, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, UNCRPD, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. On behalf of the committee, I extend a warm welcome to our guests from Christian Blind Mission, CBM, Global, Mr. Dualta Roughneen - I hope I have pronounced that correctly - CEO, and Mr. Mahbub Kabbir, advocacy manager. From Irish Aid, I welcome Mr. Michael Gaffey, director general. From the Department of Foreign Affairs, I welcome Mr. Anderson Finlay, first secretary, human rights unit, political division, and Dr. Sarah Hunt. From the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, I welcome Ms Fiona McManus, assistant principal, and Mr. Niall McLoughlin, principal officer, air quality, EU and international policy and sustainable development goals, SDGs, division.

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 any 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 Mr. Roughneen to make his opening statement.