The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is a multi-functional organisation which provides a wide range of services both directly and through specialist state agencies operating under its aegis. The Department has a wide and diverse customer base which includes farmers, consumers, food processers and other commercial operators, those involved in sea fishing, forestry, bio-energy, research as well as diverse EU institutions, other State Bodies and special interest groups. The Mission of the Department is to serve 'the government and people of Ireland by leading, developing and regulating the agri-food sector, protecting public health and optimising social, economic and environmental benefits.