Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Before we begin, I want to bring to the witnesses' attention that witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means that a witness has a full defence against any defamation action for anything said at a committee meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on an issue at the Chair's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard and are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made against an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Privilege against defamation does not apply to publication by witnesses outside the proceedings held by the committee of any matters arising from the proceedings.

The purpose of the second session this evening is to have an engagement with the chairperson designate of Bord Bia, Mr. Larry Murrin, who is accompanied by the chief executive of Bord Bia, Mr. Jim O'Toole. I will allow Mr. Murrin five minutes to read his opening statement and then we will proceed to a question and answer session.