Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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I remind Members who are participating remotely that they need to do so from within the Leinster House complex only. Apologies have been received from Deputy Bruton.

Today, we will discuss the 50th anniversary of Guaranteed Irish. This year, the Guaranteed Irish symbol is celebrating 50 years of supporting businesses. The symbol is awarded to businesses based in Ireland that support sustainable jobs, contribute to local communities and are committed to the Irish provenance. Promoting and enabling sustainable enterprise is a key priority for the economy as it strives to evolve to meet the challenges and opportunities presented by the green transition. The committee is therefore very pleased it has the opportunity to consider these matters further with the following representatives from Guaranteed Irish: Ms Bríd O'Connell, chief executive officer, Ms Sinéad Mitchell, head of marketing and PR, and Ms Clémence Jamet, head of operations and sustainability.

Before we start, as I always do, I will explain some limitations to parliamentary privilege and the practices of the Houses as regards references witnesses may make to another person in their evidence. The evidence of 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 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 by me to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction I may give.

The opening statements have been circulated to members. To commence our consideration of this matter, I invite Ms O'Connell to give her opening remarks on behalf of the organisation.