Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the witnesses, Dr. Brendan Dunford, programme manager, Dr. Sharon Parr of the Burren farming for conservation programme, Dr. James Moran, Institute of Technology Sligo, and Mr. Michael Davoren of the Burren IFA. I thank the witnesses for appearing before the committee to present on the subject of farming for conservation.

I draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

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 of the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I call on Dr. Dunford to make his opening presentation.