Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before we begin I remind members and witnesses to ensure their mobile phones are completely turned off. We are here today to discuss issues concerning the Sea-Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2017. I welcome Mr. Gerard Kelly, managing director of Tardrum Fisheries Limited and Fresco Seafoods Limited, Mr. Paul Barlow, managing director of Woodstown Bay Shellfish Limited, Mr. Alex McCarthy, director of Alex McCarthy Shellfish and Mr. Michael Crowley, general manager of Riverbank Mussels Limited. I thank them for coming before the committee.

Before we begin, I wish to draw the witnesses' attention to the fact that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence given 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 understand Mr. Kelly will make an opening statement. He has circulated quite a lengthy statement to members and they have gone through it. I ask Mr. Kelly to summarise this rather than going through it word for word, if he does not mind.