Bullocks from 400kg to 500kg sold mainly from €1.80/kg to €1.90/kg for Hereford and plainer Simmental-crosses. Better-quality continentals sold from €2.30/kg to €2.40/kg.
Forward bullocks from 500kg to 600kg were a much stronger trade than lighter types and the number on offer was back on last week. The majority of those on offer were good-quality continental types and sold mainly from €2.10/kg to €2.30/kg, with top-quality U grades making up to €2.46/kg or €800 along with the weight.
The heifer trade was similar to that of bullocks. Those from 400kg to 500kg sold mainly from €1.70/kg to €1.80/kg, with the majority of these being dairy-crosses.
Where good continental types were on offer, prices of €2.00/kg to €2.10/kg were common.
Heavier heifers over 500kg were a solid trade. Where continentals were on offer, prices of €2.00/kg to €2.15/kg were common, while dairy-crosses made from €1.80/kg to €2.00/kg.
The majority of cull cows on offer were Friesians. These sold from €1.00/kg to €1.30/kg on average, but the majority of those shown were around 600kg and had a good covering of flesh on them. Top-quality Friesians made over €1.40/kg or close to €300 over.
Calf prices firm but value in runners
Solid trade for dairy cattle at Ballymena Mart
In-calf heifers up €100/head on average on last year
Strong beef trade keeping a firm floor under cull cow prices