Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Manning, Mr. Wilson, Mr. McNamara and Ms O'Hara for attending. The discussion was very helpful. They are excused.

The second group of witnesses to address the committee are, from the Irish Farmers Association, Mr. Bergin, vice-president and chairman of the climate change project team, Mr. Kingston, environment chairman, and Mr. Ryan, and from Teagasc, Dr. Schulte and Mr. Donnellan.

Before we begin, it should be noted that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. However, if they are directed to cease giving evidence and they continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege. Witnesses are directed to restrict their evidence to the subject matter of these proceedings and to respect the parliamentary practice by not criticising or making charges against any person, persons or entity. Witnesses are asked to read the document concerning privilege which has been circulated to them.

I remind witnesses not to read out their opening statements. We have not received an opening statement from them. I ask them to keep the opening statement brief because no other witness has read out an opening statement.