Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We have received apologies from Senators Gavan and Murphy.

Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the presentations they make to the committee. This means that they have an absolute defence against any defamation action in respect of anything they say at the meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and it is my duty as Cathaoirleach to ensure that this privilege is not abused. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should comment on, criticise or make charges against any person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable or to otherwise engage in speech that might be damaging to the good name of a person or entity.

Members participating remotely are required to do so from within the Leinster House precincts. Members are also reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person or entity outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

The committee will now consider the impact of means testing on the farm assist and other social welfare schemes. This is the second meeting in a series that the committee intends to hold on the theme of means testing within the social welfare system. The committee is interested in the consequences of means testing and its future application across schemes.

The programme for Government contains a commitment to the effect that a review of the means test for farm assist, which will also have an impact on the rural social scheme, be conducted. Both schemes play a critical role in fostering social inclusion, economic sustainability and community resilience in rural Ireland. We want to ensure a fair approach to the assessment of farm assist to help increase the numbers of potentially eligible applicants on such an important scheme in order to enhance and increase all supports for farmers, fishers and rural residents facing financial hardship and employment challenges.

The committee acknowledges that the Department of Social Protection is undertaking a review of the means test across its schemes at present. We look forward to seeing the results of this review and collaborating with the Department on a system that will be equitable for all.

I welcome the following witnesses: from Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, ICMSA, Mr. Pat O'Brien, chairperson, farm business committee, and Mr. Paul Smyth, executive secretary, farm business committee; from the Irish Farmers' Association, Ms Alice Doyle, deputy president, Ms Claire McGlynn, social affairs policy executive, and Mr. Tadhg Buckley, director of policy; from the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association, Mr. Vincent Roddy, president, Mr. John Joe Fitzgerald, vice president, and Mr. Padraig Devaney, Sligo chair; and from the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association, Mr. Sean McNamara, president, and Mr. Hugh Farrell, animal health and welfare chair.

I invite Mr. Smyth to make his opening statement.