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

I remind members and witnesses to make sure their mobile phones are turned off completely please. We are meeting to continue our discussion on the future of the beef sector in the context of Food Wise 2025.

From Teagasc, I welcome Dr. Frank O'Mara, director of research and Mr. Pearse Kelly, head of the dry stock knowledge transfer department. I thank them for coming before the joint committee to discuss this very important issue with us today.

I draw attention to the fact that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it 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 the 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 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 Dr. O'Mara to make his opening statement.