Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Apologies have been received from Deputy Canney and Senators Flynn and McGreehan. The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss ensuring inclusivity in local and Europe elections. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. Art O'Leary, CEO, and Dr. Clare O'Sullivan, head of electoral integrity and research, An Coimisiún Toghcháin; and Mr. John Dolan, CEO, and Ms Joan Carthy, Disability Federation of Ireland, DFI. They are all welcome to the meeting.

Before we begin, witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might damage the good name of a person or entity. Therefore, if they directed to discontinue their remarks, it is imperative that they comply with any such direction. Members are reminded of the same parliamentary practice and also that members can only contribute to the public meeting while within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

I invite Mr. O'Leary to make his opening statement. The surroundings are not unfamiliar to him.