Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Apologies have been received from Deputy Devlin and Senators Higgins and Pauline O'Reilly. This meeting is to discuss anaerobic digestion and the bioeconomy in general as well. I welcome our witnesses, some of whom are familiar faces and are welcome back and some of whom are new to this committee. From Cré, I welcome Mr. Percy Foster, chief executive, and Mr. Tony Breton, chair. From the Irish Farmers Association, IFA, I welcome Mr. Tim Cullinan, president, Mr. Paul O'Brien, chair, and Ms Geraldine O'Sullivan, environmental policy executive. Also with us is Dr. Ciara Beausang, who is a postdoctoral researcher in this area. She is very welcome. From Renewable Gas Forum Ireland, RGFI, I welcome Mr. PJ McCarthy, chief executive officer, and Mr. JP Prendergast, chair.

From the Irish BioEnergy Association, IrBEA, I welcome Mr. Seán Finan, CEO, and Mr. Noel Gavigan, technical executive.

As usual, before we begin, I will read a note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that 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, or to otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative they comply with any such direction.

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 remind members they may participate in this meeting only if they are physically located on the Leinster House complex. In this regard, I ask members joining us online to confirm, prior to making their contribution, that they are on the grounds of the Leinster House campus.

I invite Mr. Breton to make his opening statement.