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

We are now back in public session and will begin our discussion on the beef data genomics programme. I welcome from the Irish Charolais Cattle Society, Mr. Kevin Maguire, president, and Mr. Nevan McKiernan, secretary. I also welcome Mr. Noel McGoldrick, Mr. Christy Comerford, Mr. Alan Wood and the mart manager from Cashel, Ms Alison De Vere Hunt. I thank the witnesses for coming before this committee to discuss their concerns with the beef data genomics programme. I also understand that the witnesses wish to raise concerns around animal health and welfare too.

Before we begin I wish to inform the witnesses that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee 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 only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor 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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I now invite Mr. McKiernan to make an opening statement.