Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss certain issues pertaining to the groceries sector. I welcome the delegates from Lidl Ireland: Mr. Kenneth McGrath, managing director; Mr. Ryan McDonnell, director of purchasing; and Ms Sara Jane Higgins, compliance manager. I thank them for giving of their valuable time to participate in this discussion. Apologies have been received from the Chairman, Deputy Andrew Doyle, and Vice Chairman, Deputy Pat Deering, both of whom are unable to attend.

Before we begin, I remind members to turn off their mobile telephones. Witnesses are advised that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in regard to a particular matter and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witness are further 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 or make charges against any person 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 the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I now invite Mr. McGrath to make his opening statement.