appreciation to the NGOs, for their participation in these meetings and is particularly appreciative of the attendance of national NGOs, which often provide immediate and direct information. 17. Similarly, the Committee met during 2005 with the national human rights institutions (NHRI) where these existed, of the countries it has considered. Meetings with each NHRI which attends take place, in private, usually on the day before consideration of the State party. 18. The Committee is extremely grateful for the information it receives from these institutions, and looks forward to continuing these national practices, which have enhanced its understanding of the information before the Committee. 5