Despite the wind and rain, demand for Scotch-bred lambs is still strong according to one mart manager in the southwest.

He said that this year they had record numbers of sheep in the sales and expects total sheep throughput to hit 50,000 next week, up 7,000 head compared with this time last year.

Strong demand from buyers in the midlands and east throughout the year is keeping a good floor on the market in spite of the higher numbers.

Currently, Scotch-bred lambs are making over €2/kg. Light Scotch lambs weighing 22kg to 28kg are making €51 to €56/head. Heavier Scotch-bred lambs weighing 30kg to 35kg are moving at €60 to €74/head.

However, demand for Scotch-bred ewe lambs is not as lively as it was three weeks ago and prices are back approximately €10/head.

Strong prices for factory-fit lowland lambs continues this week in the marts. Factory-fit lambs weighing 48kg to 50kg are making €104 to €107/head, or €56 to €57 over the weight.

Butchers and wholesalers are keen for heavier lambs and are paying up to €60 over the weight for quality lots in preparation for Christmas. Lowland-bred store lambs weighing 35kg to 40kg are making €75 to €94/head. Forward-store lambs are selling well, with lambs weighing 41kg to 45kg making €95 to €100/head.

Prices for very well-fleshed large-framed ewes has strengthened, with top-quality ewes making up to €140/head. Most moderately sized fleshed ewes are selling for €110 to €120/head. Feeding ewes are moving at €65 to €105/head. Scotch-bred feeding ewes are selling anywhere from €25 to €55/head.