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

I remind members and witnesses to make sure their mobile phones are completely turned off as they interfere with the broadcasting system.

Today we are dealing with the future of the beef industry in the context of Food Wise 2025. I welcome the witnesses from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine: Ms Sinéad McPhillips, assistant secretary; Ms Maria Dunne, head of division of meat and milk policy; and Ms Wila Bruce, economics and planning division. I thank them for coming before the committee to discuss the future of the beef sector in the context of Food Wise 2025.

I want to bring to the attention of the witnesses that they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence 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 Ms McPhillips will make an opening statement.