Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The next topic for discussion is maximising the usage and potential of land. I remind all members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones, please.
I welcome the delegation from Bord na Móna which comprises Mr. Pat Ring, head of property development, Mr. Gerry Ryan, secretary and head of land and property, and Dr. Catherine Farrell, senior ecologist. I thank them for coming before the committee today to discuss today's topic.
Before we begin, I draw 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 the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, 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 they 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 the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.
I invite Mr. Ryan to make his opening comments.