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

The purpose of the earlier part of this meeting is to engage with representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency in regard to the interim report prepared by it on the potential impacts on the environment and human health from unconventional gas exploration and extraction projects. On behalf of the committee, I would like to welcome from the EPA, Mr. Dara Lynott, deputy director general, and Dr. Brian Donlon, research manager.

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. However, 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 advise 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 call on Mr. Dara Lynott to make his opening statement.