Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The purpose of today's meeting is to have a discussion on a rights-based approach to day services. On behalf of the committee, I warmly welcome Dr. Alison Harnett, chief executive, and Ms Teresa Mallon, representative of the working group on the development of the outcomes-focused New Directions, National Federation of Voluntary Service Providers; Mr. Joe Meany, chief executive officer and Ms Suzanne Morrissey Forde, deputy chief executive officer and finance manager, Delta Centre; and Ms Mary Foyle, area service manager for day services, and Mr. Stephen Boyle and Ms Sarah Molloy, day service managers, Ability West.

All witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity in such a way as to make him, her of it identifiable, or otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in nature in relation to identifying a person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative that they do so.

Members are also reminded of the self-same long-standing parliamentary practice. Any member joining the meeting remotely must be within the confines of the Leinster House complex.

I invite Dr. Harnett to make her opening remarks.