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

We are continuing our discussion on the future of the beef sector in the context of Food Wise 2025. I welcome the representatives from Bord Bia, Ms Tara McCarthy, chief executive; Mr. Padraig Brennan, director of meat, food and beverages, and Mr. Joe Burke, senior manager, meat and livestock. I thank them for appearing before the committee and for their submissions.

I draw the attention of witnesses to the fact that 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 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 invite Ms McCarthy to make her opening statement.