Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind members, witnesses and people in the Visitors Gallery to turn off their mobile phones. From the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine I welcome Mr. Brendan Gleeson, assistant secretary, Mr. Dermot Ryan, deputy chief inspector, Mr. Gerry Greally, senior inspector, Ms Emer McGeough, assistant principal, and Ms Jane Dempsey, assistant principal. I thank the witnesses for attending. Since the Department briefed us at the outset of this exercise, we have identified issues and concerns which the committee would like to clarify and express to the officials.

I note that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give this committee. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence in relation to a particular matter and they continue to so do, 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 members 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 understand Mr. Gleeson wishes to make an opening statement.