Mairead Farrell (Galway West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for appearing before us. Listening to them was interesting. The issues that stand out are those of trust and consultation, especially with children. Children need to be central to consultation. We have heard that loudly and clearly today.

Ms McDonagh’s comments on the circular and her question about who it spoke to were interesting. Language is important. When we speak, it is inaccessible much of the time. That is generally the case in the Oireachtas and it can be the case in the media and so on. We need to ensure that the language used in circulars is accessible for everyone.

If the advocacy forum were to stay in place, what changes would the witnesses like to see or what changes do they believe are needed? This question is for anyone who would like to answer.