John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I apologise to Mr. Horgan and his officials for the delay in starting the meeting due to a vote in the Dáil. I remind members and witnesses to ensure that all mobile phones are switched off. The purpose of this meeting is to engage with the chairman of Bord na Móna on the cessation of peat briquette production at two Bord Na Móna factories, Littleton, County Tipperary, and Derrinlough, County Offaly. On behalf of the committee, I welcome Mr. John Horgan, chairman, Mr. Mike Quinn, managing director, Ms Geraldine Lynch, head of supply chain, and Mr. Gerry Ryan, company secretary, of Bord na Móna.

I draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. If they are directed by the Chair 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. Witnesses 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. I also remind witnesses that any submission or opening statements they have made to the committee will be published on the committee website following the meeting. 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 by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I understand that the temporary closures of the plants in question have been referred to the Labour Relations Commission by SIPTU and that management has agreed to participate. It is likely that Bord na Móna representatives may be precluded from discussing certain issues. Obviously, they can clarify that. I call on Mr. Horgan to make his opening statement.