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

The next matter is a discussion of ash dieback affecting woodland areas, in particular in Limerick and Tipperary. I welcome representatives from the Limerick and Tipperary Woodland Owners group: Mr. Colum Walsh, chairman, Ms Mary McCormack, forest owner, and Mr. John O'Connell, committee member. I thank them for coming before the committee today.

Before we begin, 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 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 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her 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. Walsh to make his opening statement.