Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Before we commence, I remind members, witnesses and people in the Public Gallery to ensure their mobile phones are switched off as they cause interference with the broadcasting equipment.

I welcome Mr Michael Sheahan, deputy chief veterinary officer; Mr. Eoin Ryan, senior supervisory veterinary inspector; Mr. Colm Forde, principal officer; Ms Rosanne Greene, assistant principal officer; and Mr. Philip Breslin, senior veterinary inspector from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to discuss Ireland's tubercolosis, TB, eradication programme.

I draw witnesses' attention to the fact that by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, they are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence regarding 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 criticise, comment on or make charges against any person or persons outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Sheahan to make his opening statement.