Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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The second session will examine the strategic priorities for Rásaíocht Con Éireann, Greyhound Racing Ireland. We will hear from Ms Dearbhla O'Brien, chief executive officer; Mr. Frank Nyhan, chairperson; Mr. Pat Herbert, director of regulation; and Mr. William Fitzgerald, veterinary director.

Before we begin, I want to bring to witnesses' attention the matter of privilege. Witnesses giving evidence within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to a committee. This means that witnesses have a full defence in any defamation action for anything said at the committee meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on an issue at the Chair's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard and they are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as is reasonable, no adverse commentary should be made against an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses who give evidence from locations outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same level of immunity from legal proceedings as witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts and may consider it appropriate to take legal advice on this matter. Privilege against defamation does not apply to the publication by witnesses, outside of the proceedings held by the committee, of any matters arising from the proceedings.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against either a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way that could make him or her identifiable. Parliamentary privilege is considered to apply to the utterances of members participating online in the committee meeting when their participation is from within the parliamentary precincts. There can be no assurances in relation to participation online from outside the parliamentary precincts and members should be mindful of this when contributing.

I now call on Ms O'Brien to make her opening statement.