Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I welcome Mr. Eamon O'Corcora and Mr. John Connolly to today's meeting to discuss the fishery management plan for inshore vessels under ten metres. I wish to draw the attention of the witnesses to the fact that by virtue of section 17 (2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter but continue to do so, they are entitled thereafter only to a 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against either a person outside the Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

By way of background information, the Sub-Committee on Fisheries was established to focus on the fishing community's socioeconomic situation, with a view to promoting sustainable industries. The main areas for attention identified by the committee are aquaculture, island and coastal fisheries, inshore fisheries - specifically sea-angling - and tourism. I welcome the witnesses and point out to members that this will probably be our last hearing before we start to draft our report. I invite Mr. O'Corcora to make his opening remarks.