The agrifood sector remains one of Ireland's most important indigenous industries, accounting directly for over 8% of both GDP and employment, and exports of over €8.1 billion. The dispersed spread and composition of the agriculture sector, along with its use of local raw material and services, ensures that it continues to play an integral part in the viability of rural areas and the national economy. The Veterinary Laboratory Services that support the Irish Department of Agriculture are geographically spread throughout the country and as such, require timely and accurate fl ow of information and research results across all locations to fulfi ll the directives of the Department