Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We will resume in public session.

I welcome Mr. Sean Coughlan from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation, ICBF, and Dr. Andrew Cromie, the federation's technical director. I thank them for appearing to update us on the progress on the beef data and genomics programme. Members will recall that both gentlemen were before us in July. We are anxious to hear the updated position.

By virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that evidence connected only 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 or make charges against any person or an 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.

Witnesses and members should note that the Dáil has agreed to observe a minute's silence at 3.15 p.m. At that time, I will be calling a halt to proceedings and asking members to stand and observe a minute's silence in unison. We will take our lead from the Dáil. I invite Mr. Coughlan to make his statement.