Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We will now hear from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine on COM (2023) 416. I welcome both witnesses. I will start by reading the note on privilege.

Witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means that a witness has full defence against any defamation action about anything said at a committee meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on an issue at the Chairperson's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made about an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses who are to give evidence from a location outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as a witness giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter.

I call Mr. Medlycott to give the opening statement.