Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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Apologies have been received from Senator Mary Seery Kearney and Deputy Seán Canney.

The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss increased employment participation for persons with disabilities. On behalf of the committee, I sincerely welcome representatives from the Disabled Persons' Organisation Network: Ms Lianne Quigley, chairperson of the Irish Deaf Society; and Mr. John Sherwin, chief executive officer of the Irish Deaf Society.

Before we begin, there is a note on privilege. 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 be regarded as defamatory. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory and they are directed to discontinue their remarks, it is imperative that they do so.

Members are reminded of the same parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity outside of the House in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I also remind members of the constitutional requirement that members must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. If members are participating remotely, I ask them to indicate that they are within the grounds of Leinster House.

Without further ado, I call Ms Quigley to make her opening statement.