Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I welcome Mr. Donal Maguire, director of the aquaculture development division at Bord Iascaigh Mhara, and his colleague, Ms Catherine Morrison, project development manager. I also welcome Mr. Lorcán Ó Cinnéide, who is representing the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association. I thank the witnesses for attending today, at short notice, to discuss the national strategic plan for sustainable aquaculture development. I apologise for the delay in commencing the meeting, which was due to a series of votes in the Dáil. Unfortunately, we cannot predict when divisions will be called, but we will do our best to proceed as smoothly as possible.

I draw the attention of witnesses 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 the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they continue to so do, 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 they are 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 House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I call Mr. Maguire to give his opening statement, to be followed by Mr. Ó Cinnéide. Thereafter, I will invite questions from members.