In the past few weeks, mart managers have commented that the cow trade has remained steady in the most part.

Cull continental fleshed cows continue to sell mainly from €1.75/kg to €1.90/kg. The number of cows making €1.95/kg and over are now few and far between regardless of quality.

In some areas prices of €1.95/kg to €2.00/kg for fleshed cows have been reported. However, in the main, these have been top-quality young cow heifers.

The average R grade fleshed cow is making around €1.80/kg to €1.85/kg.

Demand for feeding types is said to be steady. Prices of €1.60/kg to €1.75/kg are common, with age and quality being the major factors affecting price.

Where Friesian cull cows are on offer, prices are reasonably steady. Average-quality feeding Friesian cows are making from €1.00/kg to €1.40/kg.

Where poor-quality types are on offer, prices of €0.80/kg to €1.00/kg are being reported.

Friesian cows carrying flesh are said to be selling mainly at €1.50/kg to €1.70/kg at the top of the market.

Suckler units are continuing to be met with firm demand. Autumn-calved cows with calves at foot are reported to be making from €1,400 to €1,800, depending on quality, with choice types fetching over €1,900.

Calf numbers small but prices firm

The number of calves on offer at marts remains low. In the coming month, numbers are anticipated to increase again slightly as autumn-calving herds offload calves.

Good-quality Friesian bull calves are currently making from €120 to €150/head. However, the number on offer is very smaller.

Herefords are making from €220 to €310, with Angus selling for €200 to €300.

The demand for continental calves is being driven by suckler farmers sourcing to replace lost calves.

Where runner calves are coming to the fore, they are being met with mixed demand. March- and April-born Friesians are making from €200 to €300.