An Cathaoirleach:Before we begin, I bring to the attention of the witnesses giving evidence that witnesses who give evidence from within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means that they have full defence in any defamation action for anything said at the committee meeting. However, they are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on the issue at the Chair's discretion. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard and are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as far as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made against 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 those giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts, and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on the matter. Privilege against defamation does not apply to the publication by them outside of the proceedings held by the committee of any matters arising from the proceedings.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticize or make charges against either a person outside the House or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. Parliamentary privilege is considered to apply to the utterances of members participating online in the committee meeting where their participation is from within the parliamentary precincts. Members may not participate online in a public meeting from outside the parliamentary precincts. Any attempt to do so will result in the member having their online access removed.

TB is a major concern for many farmers and for members. We want it to be one of the first topics we discussed. The agenda for the meeting is the examination of TB eradication. The committee is going to hear from officials from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine: Mr. Conor O'Mahony, principal officer, ERAD division and veterinary medicines and Dr. Damien Barrett, senior superintending veterinary inspector. The committee will also hear from Mr. Michael Cronin, chairman of the TB 2030 Stakeholder Forum.