John Paul O'Shea (Cork North-West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before we begin, I will read the note on privilege and housekeeping matters. Witnesses and members 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 would be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction I may make. Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirements that to participate in public meetings members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. This is due to the constitutional requirement that to participate in public meetings members must be physically present within the confines of the place where Parliament has chosen to sit. In this regard, I ask any members participating on Microsoft Teams to confirm they are on the grounds of the Leinster House complex if they wish to make contribution. I remind all those in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are switched off or in silent mode.

I welcome to the meeting witnesses from Simon Communities of Ireland, Ms Ber Grogan, executive director, and Ms Julia Corey, policy analyst; from Social Justice Ireland, Ms Michelle Murphy, research and policy analyst; and from The Wheel, Ms Lily Power, policy officer, and Mr. John Gallagher, public affairs adviser. At the outset, I want to acknowledge that this committee welcomes the opportunity to engage with the witnesses and to thank them and all who actively contributed to the committee's call for pre-budget submissions. Engagement and consultations are key elements of the process and the committee is aware of the importance of both citizens' engagement and deliberative democracy.

Many of the submissions we received are from those actively involved in supporting the most vulnerable in society. We commend them and look forward to reviewing the contents of their submissions as part of the committee's wider examination in advance of budget 2026. I invite the Simon Communities of Ireland to make their opening remarks.