Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Before we begin, I remind members and witnesses to ensure their mobile phones are completely switched off as the interfere with the broadcasting system. We are here today to discuss the impact of Brexit on the agrifood sector. From Food Drink Ireland, FDI, I welcome Mr. Paul Kelly, director. From the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland, ABFI, I welcome Ms Patricia Callan, director, and Mr. William Lavelle. I thank the witnesses for coming before the committee today and for the presentations they submitted. I will call on Mr. Kelly and then Ms Callan to make their presentations.

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 invite Mr. Kelly to make his opening statement.