Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North-West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I draw to the attention of the witnesses that, when giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means that a witness has a full defence in any defamation action for anything said at the committee meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse the privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence at the issue of the Chair's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard. They are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made against an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses who are giving 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 the matter. Privilege against defamation does not apply to the publication by them, outside of the proceedings of the committee, of any matters arising from the proceedings.

On the agenda for this session, we are staying with anaerobic digestion. The committee will hear from officials from the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment: Mr. Seán Kinsella, principal officer, and Ms Niamh Hamill, assistant principal. Their opening statement has been circulated. I will give them five minutes to read it and we will then proceed to questions from members.