The agriculture and food sectors in Ireland account for: 7.6% of GVA at Factor Cost, 8.5% of employment, 12.3% of total exports

The Irish Government's commitment to the agri-food sector remains strong. In the Supplementary Estimate for 2012, the Exchequer is providing €1.339 billion for agriculture, fisheries and food and public expenditure will amount to over €2.639 billion when the Department's Vote is combined with EU funding of €1.3 billion. The high proportion of expenditure on local raw material and services as well as the dispersed nature and composition of the sector will ensure that the agri-food sector will play an integral part in the recovery of their economic success and the continued viability of rural and coastal areas.