Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)
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We will now discuss the topic of the protecting and enhancing of the Irish music industry with Mr. Danny McCarthy and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. I welcome the Mr. McCarthy, an tUas. Séamus Mac Cormaic, an tUas. Pádraig Ó Flannagáin, oifigeach caidreamh poiblí, Attracta Ní Bhrádaigh, ard-ollamh, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann anuraidh, and Ann Marie Ní Ghallacóir, oifigeach caidreamh poiblí, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann i nDoire 2013.

I draw attention to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. They are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against a person, persons or an entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Any submission or opening statement witnesses have submitted to the committee will be published on its website after the meeting. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

Before we commence, I am glad to welcome the representative of the Irish music industry to the committee. I pay particular tribute to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann for the wonderful display of culture it has provided to our European guests for the last six months for the various events that took place as part of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. I attended one of these events myself and it was wonderful to see such a display of Irish culture presented in so professional and enjoyable a manner. I pay a special welcome to my colleague and friend from Roscrea, an tUas. Pádraig Ó Flannagáin.

It is of vital economic importance that Ireland, so famous for its music both traditional and modern, remains proud of that heritage, a vital part of our identity. Whether it is the music of Ó Cearbhalláin in the 18th century, The Chieftains, any of the new emerging talents in the 21st century, or even Deputy McGrath singing and dancing, we have contributed enormously to the art of music writing and delivery. That economic importance is why the committee has invited the witnesses here today to address it on this topic. We are interested in hearing their views and lending our support to any proposals they have to develop and benefit this sector.

I invite Mr. Danny McCarthy to make his opening remarks.