Ireland's state veterinarians will come together today to discuss its role in regulating and enforcing food production standards in the agri-sector.
The group will begin a two day conference which will address the threats and opportunities associated with an intensive level of farming.
The vets - who are responsible for animal health and welfare, disease control, food safety, and public health - will also explore the Food Harvest Plan for 2020 with particular emphasis on increased production levels for farmers.
The plan has called for a 40 per cent growth rate for the beef sector.