Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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We are again joined for this session by Deputy Canney, who has sponsored the Bill. We are also joined from AsIAm by Mr. Adam Harris, chief executive officer, and Mr. Carl Morris, policy officer with AsIAm; from the Middletown Centre for Autism by Mr. Stephen Douthart, CEO, Dr. Fiona McCaffrey, head of research and development, and Ms Jill McCanney, head of learning, sport and assessment; and by Nem Kearns, co-founder of Neuro Pride Ireland, who is appearing remotely through MS Teams. They are all very welcome to the meeting.

Before we begin, I will go through the usual housekeeping matters. We have to conclude no later than 6 p.m. and there will be questions from members after the opening statements. In advance of inviting witnesses to deliver their opening statements, I advise them of the following in respect of parliamentary privilege. Witnesses and members 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 respect of an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

For witnesses appearing remotely before the committee, there is uncertainty as to whether parliamentary privilege applies to their evidence given from a location outside of the parliamentary precincts of Leinster House. Therefore, if they are directed by me to cease giving evidence, it is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

I invite Mr. Harris to make his opening statement.