Useful resources
In 1994, the Irish Government established Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, to champion the success of the Irish food and drink industry. Bord Bia is charged with the promotion of Irish food and drink in domestic and overseas markets. After 10 years of marketing Ireland's premium products, Ireland now exports to all countries in Europe and has extensive business in wider international markets, particularly North and South America, Africa, and Asia. Despite its modest size, Ireland is the fourth largest exporter of food and drink in Europe and the industry accounts for over 7% of Ireland's economic output, 11 per cent of Ireland's total exports and almost 9 per cent of total employment.
The success of Ireland's food export trade is founded on natural production methods, stringent food controls at farm and processing level and a committed customer service. Through innovation, state of the art technology and a passion for the industry, Ireland's major players are enjoying worldwide renown for their products and service.
Teagasc, the Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, is the national body
providing research, training and advice for the agri-food industry in Ireland.
The mix of tradition and a focus on the future has led to an industry with enormous scope and diversity. Leading international food companies work alongside a thriving small business sector in which family-run operations produce unique specialist cheeses, preserves, charcuterie products and confectionary.
Enterprise Ireland partners with entrepreneurs, Irish businesses and the research and innovation communities to develop Ireland’s international trade, innovation, leadership and competitiveness. Enterprise Ireland is also responsible for the inward investment in the food, beverage and natural resource sectors.
The mission of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine of the Irish Government
is to lead, develop and regulate the agri-food sector, protect public health and optimise social, economic and environmental benefits. The Irish Government's commitment to the agri-food sector remains strong. In the Estimate for 2020, the Exchequer is providing €1.6 billion
for Programme Expenditure for agriculture, fisheries and food. Total public expenditure will amount to over €3 billion when the department's Vote is combined with EU funding of €1.5 billion.
Bord Iascaigh Mhara, helps to develop the Irish Seafood Industry by providing technical expertise, business support, funding, training and promoting responsible environmental practice. BIM's vision is to lead the Irish Seafood sector so that Ireland becomes the international leader in high-value differentiated products that satisfy the growing demand for healthy, safe, responsibly and sustainably produced seafood.