Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind witnesses and members to turn off their mobile phones. Before we begin, I bring it to their attention that witnesses giving evidence within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means a witness has a full defence in any defamation action in respect of anything they say at committee meetings. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed by the Chair to cease giving evidence on an issue. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard and are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, where reasonable, no adverse comments should be made against an identified third person or entity.

I welcome, from Macra na Feirme, Ms Elaine Houlihan, national president; Dr. Liam Hanrahan, chair of the agriculture affairs committee; and Dr. Maria Snell, senior research and policy executive. I invite them to make their presentation to the Oireachtas.