Demand for dairy heifers has been strong at recent clearance sales.

Mart managers in the south have reported prices of €1,400 to €1,600 for well-bred calved heifers and young cows. In border areas, higher prices have been reported for top-quality pedigree calved heifers.

However, in general dairy sales, prices are said to be on par with last year.

Calved heifers are selling mainly from €1,200 to €1,450. Cows with milk recording figures and AI-bred stock are the preferred types.

Older in-calf cows are making from €1,100 to €1,250 depending on age.

Where later March-calving heifers and those showing little signs of springing are on offer, prices are a little weaker, at €1,100 to €1,300.