Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)

Apologies have been received from Senators Nikki Bradley and Margaret Murphy O'Mahony.

The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss autonomy and integrity for people with disabilities. On behalf of the committee, I extend a warm welcome to Ms Angela Denning, CEO, and Mr. Tom Ward, head of superior court operations, of the Courts Service; Ms Áine Flynn, director, Mr. Ian Grehan, head of operations, and Ms Aoife McMahon, head of registration, of the Decision Support Service; and Ms Joanne Condon, national manager, and Ms Suzy Byrne, regional manager, of the National Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities.

Before we begin, as is always the case, I will read out a note on privilege and parliamentary housekeeping matters. All witnesses present 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 relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction that may be given. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege.

I remind Members of the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings, they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

I am aware that a wide range of issues will be the subject of discussion today. If necessary, further and more detailed information on certain issues raised can be sent to the clerk of the committee for circulation to the members.

I now call on Ms Angela Denning to make her opening statement.