Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome everyone this morning. I ask those attending remotely to mute themselves when they are not contributing so we do not pick up any background noise or feedback. As usual, I remind all those in attendance to ensure their mobile phones are on silent mode or switched off entirely. Those in the precincts of Leinster House are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentation they make to the committee. This means they have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they may say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure this privilege is not abused. 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. Members are again reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside of the Houses or of an official of the Houses either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

On the agenda for today's second session of the committee is the proposed redesignation of schools for children with mild general learning disabilities. I welcome Mr. Greg Browne, principal of Catherine McAuley school in Limerick; Ms Debbie O'Neill, principal of Scoil Eoin in Crumlin, Dublin 12; Mr. John Haran, principal of St. Bernadette's Special School in Letterkenny, County Donegal, who will be with us shortly; and Ms Rose-Marie Flanagan, principal of St. Anne's special school in Ennis, County Clare. They are all very welcome to today's meeting. I call on Mr. Browne to make his opening statement for which he has ten minutes. For the benefit of members, this is a combined opening statement on behalf of all four witnesses here today.