The new pit was built, on the farm of Paul Murray at Beaupark, to cater for increased cattle numbers.

But, in addition, it will give Paul more flexibility in what crops he ensiles and in which order he feeds them out.

For even more flexibility, Paul now plans to divide the existing pit in two.

The work was completed by Tom Conaty, based at Navan, who also supplied the concrete.

Strong competition in concrete prices

When the existing silage pit is emptied of feed, Tom Conaty will begin work to divide it in two with a new wall down the middle.

‘‘We’ll cut out a six-foot wide strip of concrete down the middle. We’ll lay a foundation with steel and then shutter and pour the new wall, with full reinforcing steel on both faces.

‘‘All joints will be sealed with hot bitumen to make them leak proof.

‘‘We will also remove the clay bank at the right hand side of the pit and extend the concrete slab to meet up with the new pit and wall,’’ Tom said.

I asked Tom about prices of cement and concrete. ‘‘I’m buying seven one grade cement at €105 to €110 per tonne, plus VAT. But biggest operators can, at times, buy it for as little as €80 per tonne. There is fierce competition in concrete prices in this area and it is selling at €68 to €69 per cubic metre for 35N, for a few eight cubic metre loads. Forty Newton will be €2 to €4 dearer per cubic metre,’’ he said.