Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I ask those in the Public Gallery to ensure their mobile phones are completely turned off. We are here today to discuss pre-budgetary priorities. I welcome the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and I thank him for coming before the committee to discuss his priorities in advance of the budget next week. I also welcome the officials from the Department.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice 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 invite the Minister to make his opening statement.