Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members and delegates and those in the Visitors Gallery to ensure mobile phones are switched off for the duration of the meeting, as they interfere with the broadcasting equipment.

We are continuing our meetings on the issue of tackling childhood obesity. There were a number of meetings on the topic before the summer recess and since we have come back which will culminate in the publication of a report by the committee under the stewardship of our rapporteur, Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick. I welcome our guests and thank them for attending. We will begin with the representatives of the food and drink industry.

Before commencing proceedings, I draw attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against a person, persons or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. I also advise that the opening statements submitted to the committee will be published on its website after the meeting.

Members are reminded 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 by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Kelly, director, and Mr. Shane Dempsey, director of consumer foods, Food and Drink Industry Ireland, to make their opening remarks.