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

Apologies have been received from Deputy Coveney. Today's meeting is to consider aligning disability funding with the UNCRPD. On behalf of the committee, I warmly welcome the Minister of State with responsibility for disability, Deputy Anne Rabbitte. I also welcome the officials from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth: Margot Loughman, principal officer, disability finance and reform unit; Sarah O'Brien, assistant principal, disability equality policy unit; and Jenny Andersson, assistant principal, disability children's services unit.

The Minister of State may call on her officials to speak briefly for clarification during the meeting. Where a specific technical point arises, officials can clarify issues for the committee. Any follow-up questions should be put to the Minister of State because she is the accountable person before the committee. I am aware that a wide range of issues are the subject of today's discussion. If necessary, further and more detailed information on certain issues raised can be sent to the committee secretariat for circulation to members.

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 outside the House 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 witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in respect of an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative that they comply with such directions.

Members are, of course, reminded of the selfsame parliamentary practice. Members who are joining us remotely must be within the confines of the Leinster House complex to contribute to a public meeting.

Without further ado, I call the Minister of State to make her opening statement.