Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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We are continuing our discussion on the future of the beef industry. At our meeting before the Easter recess we learned about the Kepak-Glanbia initiative, the programme that was launched towards the middle of April. The joint committee considered that the initiative might have a contribution to make in the overall discussion we were having on the future of the beef industry. With that in mind, we decided to invite representatives of Kepak and Glanbia to come before the committee to discuss the initiative. I thank them for taking up the invitation we extended to them. From Glanbia Ireland I welcome Mr. Martin Ryan, head of the beef division, and Mr. Pat O'Keeffe. From Kepak I welcome Mr. Mick O'Dowd, agri-development manager, and Mr Jonathan Forbes. As they will be aware, the committee is undertaking this initiative of discussing the future of the beef industry. The issue is very topical throughout the country and we consider that the committee has a part to play in the discussion.

Witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if they are directed by it to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to 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 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, 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 Houses or an official, either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable.

I invite Mr. Ryan to make his opening statement. I understand Mr. O'Dowd will also make a contribution.