Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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We will move to the next item on our agenda. We will deal with the RTÉ "Prime Time" programme last Wednesday week relating to alleged issues of abuse of greyhounds. I welcome from Bord na gCon, the Irish Greyhound Board, Mr. Frank Nyhan, chairperson, and Mr. Denis Healy, veterinary director. I thank them for appearing before the committee to discuss the recent media reports on the abuse of greyhounds. I apologise for dragging you in so late this evening but we had other issues earlier on.

I bring to your attention the fact that witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to the committee. However, if you are directed by the committee to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and you continue to so do, you are entitled thereafter only to a qualified privilege in respect of your evidence. You are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and you are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, you 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.

Mr. Nyhan, I understand you will make the opening statement.