Last Saturday’s sale at Maam Cross Mart saw the annual lamb show and sale for mule ewes and ewe lambs. There was a packed yard of over 1,200 sheep and farmers arrived from near and far.
Mart manager Eoin Bourke said that the trade was very strong. Last year, prices averaged €95/head. However, this year, prices averaged at €108/head.
The supply of hogget ewes at the sale was low, but mule ewe lambs were abundant. Overall, the trade was very good, with a clearance rate of 98% achieved. Ewe lambs were expensive in comparison with hoggets.
The majority of good-quality hogget ewes sold from €140 to €160, with prices averaging €155/head. The show winners sold for €166/head. Demand for ewe lambs was very strong, with farmers from all over the country bidding. Prices for good-quality mule-cross ewe lambs ranged mainly from €100 to €120/head, with farmers paying up to €140/head for top-quality types.
There was a good entry of light mountain store lambs on offer also. Prices ranged mainly from €30 to €55, with some light ewe lambs making from €60 to €65, with quality and weight being the main parameters determining price. Commission rates are €1 to the buyer and 1.95% to the seller.
Sheep prices: trade holding but rain starting to have an impact at marts