Micheál Carrigy (Fine Gael)
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I welcome our witnesses. For their information, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses of the Oireachtas as regards references they may make to other persons in their evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected, pursuant to the Constitution and statute, by absolute privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect 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 that person or entity. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

We are joined by representatives from Middletown Centre for Autism. We have Ms Rosemary Steen, chairperson of the committee, Mr. Jim Lennon, CEO, Dr. Fiona McCaffrey, head of research and development and Ms Jill McCanney, head of learning support and assessment. Before we hear from the witnesses I propose that we publish their opening statement and submission on the committee's website. Is that agreed? Agreed.

Middletown Centre for Autism is an important cross-Border body that provides a range of services to autistic children across the island of Ireland. The members, including me, were pleased to visit the centre in December. We appreciate its ongoing co-operation with the committee. The centre provides a range of services such as research, assessment and training to a broad cohort of people, North and South. It offers information and services to autistic children and young people, the parents and guardians of autistic children, professionals and policymakers within the autism sector. We look forward to hearing more about its work, its views on policy and how better we can serve autistic people throughout Ireland. I call Ms Rosemary Steen to make her opening statement.