Marc Ó Cathasaigh (Waterford, Green Party)
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We will continue on to the second part of our discussion, which is on the integration of early years learning into primary education. On behalf of the committee, I again welcome from the Department of Education: Mr. Dalton Tattan, assistant secretary; Ms Jill Fannin, principal officer; and Ms Joanne Roe, early years specialist. I also welcome witnesses from the NCCA: Ms Arlene Forster, CEO; Dr. Patrick Sullivan, deputy CEO; and Ms Donna Carolan, acting director.

The officials are here to brief the committee on the integration of early years learning into primary level. The format of the meeting is that I will invite Mr. Tattan and Ms Forster to make their opening statements. This will be followed by questions from members of the committee. Given the length of today’s meeting, I ask members to stick within the five-minute time constraint for both asking questions and allowing the officials to respond. As the witnesses are aware, the committee will publish the opening statements on its website following the meeting.

I remind members of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. Officials 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 their 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.

With the niceties dealt with, I invite Mr. Tattan to make his opening statement of this session.