Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I welcome Mr. Denis Murphy, chairman, and Dr. Muiris Ó Céidigh, chief executive officer, from the National Milk Agency and thank them for coming before the joint committee to discuss the agency's annual report for 2013.

Before we begin, on the matter of privilege, I bring to the witnesses' attention that they 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 in regard to a particular matter and they 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 asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or 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 that both witnesses wish to speak. Does Mr. Murphy wish to make the opening statement?