Naoise Ó Muirí (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)

In session two, we are continuing our discussion on identifying the barriers that will prevent Ireland from achieving the climate change targets for 2026 to 2030. I welcome to the meeting the following witnesses: Mr. John Murphy, environmental and rural affairs chair, Irish Farmers Association, IFA; Mr. Tadhg Buckley, director of policy and chief economist; and Ms Geraldine O'Sullivan, senior policy executive. They are all very welcome.

Before I invite the witnesses to deliver their opening statement, I advise everyone of the following in relation to parliamentary privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing 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 otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if witnesses' statements are potentially defamatory in relation to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks and it is imperative they comply with any such direction.

I invite witnesses to make an opening statement of a maximum of five minutes. Once this has been delivered, I will call on the members of the committee in the order they indicate to me to put their questions. I call Mr. Murphy to deliver his opening statement.