Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I remind members and witnesses to ensure that their mobile phones are switched off. We are meeting Mr. Frank Nyhan, chairman-designate, in order to hear how he envisages Bord na gCon progressing over the next period.

Before we begin, I wish to bring to his attention the fact that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. If they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and they 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 person or entity by name or in such a way as to make him or her 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 invite Mr. Nyhan to make his opening statement, which will be followed by questions from the members.