Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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I ask anyone attending remotely to mute their device when not contributing so that the meeting does not pick up any background noise or feedback. I also remind those in attendance to make sure their mobile phones are on silent mode or switched off entirely. Members attending remotely are reminded of the constitutional requirement that in order to participate in public meetings, they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex. As the witnesses are within the precincts of Leinster House they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to this committee. This means that they will have an absolute defence against any defamation action for anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege. It is my duty, as Cathaoirleach, to ensure this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, I will direct them to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with such direction. Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity outside of the Houses of the Oireachtas or an official of the Houses by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

On the agenda for session 2 of today's meeting of the committee is current and future plans for the RACE scheme, with specific reference to dyslexia and dyscalculia. From the Department of Education and Youth, the following official is before the committee today: Ms Celeste O'Callaghan, principal officer. From the State Examinations Commission, SEC, the following officials are before the committee here today: Ms Andrea Feeney, chief executive officer; Ms Deirdre Phelan, acting head of examinations and assessment; and Ms Róisin Collier, principal officer. They are all very welcome and I thank them for taking time to join us here this morning.

I call Ms O'Callaghan to make her opening statement, for which she will have five minutes, following which I will call Ms Feeney to make her opening statement, for which she will also have five minutes. The opening statements will then be followed by questions from the members. They will have four minutes each. I ask that members allow time within their slot for the officials to respond appropriately to questions.