Tim Lombard (Fine Gael)
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Following the agenda, the second session of today's meeting is on the examination of the TB eradication programme.

The witnesses are welcome. I will now read the notice on privilege. Witnesses giving evidence from within the parliamentary precincts are protected by absolute privilege in respect of the evidence they give to the committee. This means that witnesses have a full defence in any defamation action taken based on anything they say in the committee meeting. However, witnesses are expected not to abuse this privilege and may be directed to cease giving evidence by a direction of the Chair. Witnesses should follow the direction of the Chair in this regard. They are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that, where reasonable and unless there is no alternative, no commentary should be made identifying a third person or entity. Witnesses giving evidence from outside the parliamentary precincts are asked to note that they may not benefit from the same legal immunity as witnesses giving evidence from inside the parliamentary precincts and may consider taking legal advice on this matter. Privilege against any defamatory action does not apply to publication outside the precincts of the committee on any matters arising from these proceedings.

I now call Mr. Conor O'Mahony to read his opening statement and we will take questions then afterwards.