Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are in public session. I remind members and witnesses to switch off their mobile phones. I welcome the representatives from the Health and Safety Authority, Mr. Martin O'Halloran, chief executive, Mr. Brian Higgisson, assistant chief executive with responsibility for operational compliance and prevention, and Mr. Pat Griffin, senior inspector. I thank them for attending to discuss with the committee its concerns regarding the Health and Safety Authority's planned proposals on farm inspections.

On the matter of privilege, I note that witnesses 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 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 they are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Martin O'Halloran to make his opening statement.