Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before we commence, I remind members to switch off their mobile telephones. The purpose of the meeting is to receive a briefing on the forthcoming EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting to be held later this month. I welcome the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy Simon Coveney, and his officials and thank them for coming before the joint committee. I understand the Minister wishes to address the issue of the sea fisheries sustainability assessment. I thank him also for circulating a briefing document on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2014 and reform of the Common Agricultural Policy, which we may not have time to discuss this morning.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I ask the Minister to make his opening statement.