Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I welcome the two groups to the meeting. The Donegal Islands Marine Resource Organisation is represented by Mr. Jerry Early, Ms Majella Ní Chríocháin and Mr. John O'Brien and the Loop Head Tourism Group is represented by Mr. Luke Aston. I thank the delegates for coming before the joint sub-committee to discuss issues contained in the committee's recent report on promoting sustainable rural coastal and island communities and how the report's recommendations can be best implemented.

Before we begin, I must notify the delegates of the procedure on privilege. Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, 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 are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise nor make charges against any person, 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 a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I understand Mr. Early from the Donegal Islands Marine Resource Organisation will lead the opening comments and he will be followed by Mr. Aston. I invite Mr. Early to proceed.