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

Before we begin, I remind members, witnesses and those in the Visitors Gallery to ensure their mobile phones are completely turned off as they interfere with the broadcasting system. We are here to discuss the Trócaire policy paper, Food Democracy: Feeding The World Sustainably. From Trócaire, I welcome Mr. Michael O'Brien, policy adviser; Ms Olive Moore, head of programmes; Mr. Joshua Aijuka, programme manager, sustainable farming systems, PELUM Uganda. I thank the witnesses for attending today to discuss Trócaire's policy paper, which has been received by the committee.

Witnesses 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 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 Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. O'Brien to make his opening statement.