Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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We have received apologies from Senator Ned O'Sullivan. Senator Eileen Flynn is joining us today instead of Senator Ruane, and she is very welcome. Our agenda item is a discussion on the Ombudsman for Children's 2023 annual report, entitled Uncertain Times. From the Office of the Ombudsman for Children we have Dr. Niall Muldoon, Ombudsman for Children, Ms Nuala Ward, director of investigations, and Ms Aoife Carragher, head of communications. They are all very welcome to this meeting.

I will go through the normal housekeeping matters. For anyone joining us through Teams, the chat function is only to let us know of any urgent matters rather than making any general comments or statements. I remind our members of the constitutional requirement that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. I will not permit a member to participate where they are not adhering to this constitutional requirement. If members are joining us through Teams, before they make their contribution, could members please confirm that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

In respect of parliamentary privilege, in advance of inviting those present to deliver their opening statements, I advise witnesses that the evidence given by 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 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 a witness or member's statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

We have our normal questions and answers after the opening statements. I will hand over to Dr. Muldoon for his opening statement.