Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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Members who are participating in the meeting remotely need to be within the Leinster House complex. Apologies have been received from Senator Marie Sherlock and Deputy Louise O'Reilly. Today's discussion is on IBEC's Better Care, Better Business report. Carers play a vital role in our society. The support and care they provide helps to facilitate much economic growth. Carers and those in need of care face several employment-related issues, such as with career development, connectivity to the labour market and access to training. The committee is pleased that we have the opportunity to consider these matters further with representatives from IBEC, Dr. Kara McGann, head of skills and social policy, and Ms Nichola Harkin, head of legal services.

Before we start, as we always do, I wish to explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practice of the Houses with regard to reference that may be made to another person in witnesses' evidence. The evidence of witnesses physically present or who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts is protected pursuant to both the Constitution and statute by absolute privilege. Witnesses are again 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 relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction I may give.

The opening statements have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I invite Dr. McGann to make opening remarks on behalf of IBEC.