Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)

Apologies have been received from Deputy Seamus Healy and Senator Nikki Bradley. The purpose of today's meeting is a discussion about progressing the delivery of disability policy and services.

On behalf of the committee, I extend a warm welcome to the National Disability Authority. We are joined by Dr. Aideen Hartney, director; Dr. Rosalyn Tamming, head of policy, research and public affairs; Dr. Andrew Wormald, senior research officer; and Mr. Ciarán Finlay, senior policy officer.

Before we begin, I wish to read a note on privilege and some housekeeping matters. All 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 respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction that I may make. I also remind members of the constitutional requirement that, in order to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. Members of the committee attending remotely must do so from within the precincts of the Leinster House complex. This is due to the constitutional requirement that, in order to participate in public meetings, members must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit. All members who participate via MS Teams are aware they must do so from the grounds of Leinster House if they wish to contribute.

I call on Dr. Aideen Hartney to make the opening statement.