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The past week has seen strong entries of cull cows right across the country, but many mart managers feel that the peak of cow entries will not occur for another few weeks.
The price paid for continental and Friesian fleshed cows has remained quite steady in the past week.
Fleshed continental cows are selling mainly from €1.65/kg to €1.85/kg, with only top-quality and cow heifer types making up to €1.90/kg.
Fleshed Friesian cows are making from €1.25/kg to €1.50/kg.
Feeding Friesian cows are selling from €0.90/kg to €1.05/kg, with continental feeding cows selling from €1.45/kg to €1.65/kg.
Calf prices steady
Although the number of suck calves on offer remains very low, prices are holding fairly steady.
However, where spring-born weaned calves are on offer, farmers are considering them better value.
Autumn-born Friesian bull calves continue to average from €100 to €120, with quality a factor.
Angus bulls and heifers continue to sell for €260/head on average for bulls and approximately €220/head for heifers.
Hereford calves continue to perform better than the average Angus, selling for a premium of €25 to €30 per head when compared with Angus.
Demand for continental calves is firm. Prices are ranging mainly from €300 to €350, with better quality and choice lots making up to €450.
Ringside comment: farmers are more active but quality waning
Positive start to dairy trade in a difficult year
Store cattle in demand at Armoy Livestock Mart
Steady trade for quality stock in Enniskillen
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