The Department of Agriculture is responsible for

• Policy advice and development on all areas of Departmental responsibility.
• Representation in international especially EU and national negotiations.
• Development and implementation of national and EU schemes in support of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries, Forestry and Rural Environment.
• Monitoring and controlling aspects of Food Safety.
• Control and audit of public expenditure under its control.
• Regulation of the agriculture, fisheries, and food industries through national and EU legislation.
• Monitoring and controlling animal and plant health and animal welfare.
• Monitoring and direction of State Bodies engaged in the following areas – research training and advice – market development and promotion- industry regulation and development- commercial activities
• Direct provision of support services relating to Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Forestry.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) was established under the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act. The principal function of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland is to protect consumers and raise compliance through partnership, science and food law enforcement.

It is  a statutory, independent and science-based body, dedicated to protecting public health and consumer interests in the area of food safety and hygiene.Ddecisions relating to food safety and hygiene take account of the latest and best scientific advice and information available.

The Authority has have national responsibility for co-ordinating the enforcement of food safety legislation in Ireland. The FSAI:

• is responsible for enforcement and compliance
• leads and supports Ireland’s food safety regulators to implement a fair, consistent and effective system of enforcement.
• manages risks in the food chain and respond effectively to any national or international food incident or crisis.
• ensures the safety, integrity and authenticity of the food chain by detecting, deterring and preventing breaches of food law and taking action to protect consumers.
• strives for a world-class official food control system for Ireland which delivers the best outcomes for consumers.
• supports risk-based decision-making and policy with high-quality, independent expertise.
• expands the evidence base through research, coordinated studies and scientific collaboration.
• advances risk assessment practice to promote trust and engagement.
• grow the ability to identify emerging risks and threats to the food chain.
• influences the development of food standards and enforcement approaches at European and international levels.
• provides clear and evidence-based advice and information to promote food safety and build compliance with food law.
• works in partnership with the Government and other state agencies, academia and civil society organisations to champion food safety within Ireland
• collaborates with key stakeholders to foster and promote a culture of food safety and compliance within Ireland’s food industry.