Jackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones. Before we begin, I bring to their attention that witnesses giving evidence within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence given to the committee. This means that witnesses have a full defence in any defamation action for anything said at a committee meeting. Witnesses are, however, expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence on the Chair's direction. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard and are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, as is reasonable, no adverse comment should be made against an identifiable third person or entity. Witnesses giving evidence outside of 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.

The purpose of the first session of today's meeting is for the committee to resume examination of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's response to ash dieback. The committee will hear from the following representatives of Limerick and Tipperary Woodland Owners Limited, LTWO; Mr. Simon White, chairman, Mr. John O'Connell, vice chairman, Ms Mary McCormack, ash dieback committee, and Mr. John Reardon. I welcome the witnesses to the meeting. I will allow our guests five minutes to read their opening statement and then we will proceed to a question-and-answer session. I call Mr. White to make his opening statement.