Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss the rights-based care for people with disabilities. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Ms Carol Grogan, chief inspector of social services, and Mr. Finbarr Colfer, deputy chief inspector of social services, from HIQA. I welcome Ms Nuala Ward, director of investigations, and Mr. Colm Leonard, investigator, from the Ombudsman for Children's Office. From the Mental Health Commission, I welcome Dr. John Hillery, chairperson, Mr. John Farrelly, chief executive, and Professor Jim Lucey, inspector of mental health services.

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 are directed to discontinue their remarks, it is imperative that they comply with any such direction. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against an official or persons outside of the Houses by name in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I remind members that they can only contribute to the public meeting while within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

I invite Ms Grogan to make her opening statement.