Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The purpose of today's meeting is a discussion on the climate crisis and disability and leaving nobody behind. On behalf of the joint committee I welcome Dr. Robert Mooney and Ms Hanna Gilmartin who are assistant principal officers in the climate engagement and adaption division, Department of Environment, Climate and Communications. I also welcome Mr. Damien Walshe, chief executive and Mr. Peter Kearns, onside project manager, Independent Living Movement Ireland, ILMI.

Before we begin, I must read a note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of a person or entity. If a statement is potentially defamatory and a witness is directed to discontinue making remarks, it is imperative that this should be done.

Members are reminded of long-standing parliamentary practices. Members are reminded of the constitutional requirement that they must be present within the confines of the Leinster House campus in order to participate in public meetings. I ask anybody contributing online to let us know first that they are within the grounds of the complex.

I now call on Mr. Walshe and Mr. Kearns to make their opening statements on behalf of ILMI.