Pat Deering (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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In session two we will discuss the Teagasc annual report for 2018. I welcome Professor Gerry Boyle, director, Dr. Frank O'Mara, director of research and Dr. Tom Kelly, director of knowledge transfer, advisory and education, from the agency. I thank them for coming before the committee to discuss Teagasc's annual report for 2018 and its plans for the future.

Before we begin, I draw the 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 the committee. However, if they are directed by the Chair 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.

I remind members 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 Professor Boyle to make his opening statement.