Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael)
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Good morning, everybody. I am standing in for Deputy Leddin, the Chairman, who is unavailable this morning. I have also received apologies from Senator McGahon.

This morning's meeting will be split into two sessions. In the first, we will hear from representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications while the second, we will have representatives from FoodCloud, Food Drink Ireland and the Circular Bioeconomy Research Group, CircBio.

The purpose of the meeting is to have a discussion on the circular economy and how it relates to the food sector. On behalf of the committee, I welcome the following stakeholders to the meeting: Mr. David Flynn, Mr. Warren Phelan and Ms Fiona McCoole from the EPA; and Mr. Tony Collins, Mr. Marc Kierans and Mr. Brian Quirke from the Department.

I am required to read a note on privilege. Witnesses are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice that 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, or to otherwise engage in speech that might be regarded as damaging to the good name of the person or entity. Therefore, if their statements are potentially defamatory in regard to an identifiable person or entity, they will be directed to discontinue their remarks. It is imperative that they comply with any such direction.

Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise nor make charges against either a person outside the Houses or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him or her identifiable. I also remind members that they must be physically present within the confines of the Leinster House complex to participate in public meetings. In this regard, I ask all members that prior to making their contribution to the meeting, that they confirm they are on the grounds of the campus. Finally, I remind members and witnesses to switch their phones either to silent mode or off.

I call Mr. Flynn to make his opening statement.