Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Apologies have been received from Senator Black. I welcome Senator Dolan, who is substituting for her. I also welcome Senator Kelleher, who joined us in previous sessions, and other members.

First on our agenda is the general scheme of the equality/disability (miscellaneous provisions) Bill.

I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality, Deputy Finian McGrath, and his officials. They are attending to discuss the general scheme of the Bill, which was referred to the committee for consideration by the Minister for Justice and Equality. The format of the meeting is that I will invite the Minister of State to make his opening remarks and I will then invite members to ask questions. I ask the Minister of State to deliver his opening address.