Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Today we will discuss what is happening to the bird population in Ireland and related matters with representatives of BirdWatch Ireland. I welcome Ms Oonagh Duggan, assistant head of policy and advocacy; Mr. Brian Caffrey, assistant head of surveys and monitoring; and Dr. Anita Donaghy, assistant head of species and land management.

Before I ask the representatives of BirdWatch Ireland to address the meeting, I draw their attention 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 this 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 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 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, them, or it identifiable. I also advise them that their opening statements and any other documents they have submitted to the committee may be published on its website after the meeting.

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.

Cuirfimid tús leis an gcomhrá. Tá sé de phribhléid agam iarraidh ar an Uasal Duggan a cur i láthair a dhéanamh. I invite Ms Duggan to begin her presentation.