Camera at the Mart: big turnout of beef-crosses in Tullow

Beef-crosses had the upper hand when it came to numbers at the calf sale in Tullow Mart on Friday last.

Of the 365 calves on offer, there were over 250 beef-crosses, with Belgian Blues taking second spot in the number stakes and Angus the most numerous.

Lighter Angus-cross heifers were making from €160 to €230, while those from larger cows were making up to €400 and more. Bulls were making up to €520 for the heavier ones. Herefords were making similar money.

After the sale, manager Eric Driver said: “Overall, it’s been a good spring from calves, they’re being better fed, there’s no doubt about it and I’m noticing that the board is being watched by the buyers.

“The calf to beef programme has its own schooling. They’re looking at CBV, but predominantly at the dam breed.

“We’re seeing a lot more Belgian Blues and Charolais and the better ones are getting into €700 and €750 and back to €500. Lighter ones or with crossbred breeding are making back to €250 and €300 and it’s mainly exporters going for them.

“There’s a hunger for the Friesian now with exporters really looking for them. Go back two years ago and if you let down the ramp and saw all Friesians your heart would drop, but they’re making €300 to €350 now. The crossbred ones are selling for €100 to €150 and some lighter ones were back to €60.”

His main concern this year was the impact of the beef price on farmer confidence.

“Look at last year, we had a strong beef trade, it gave farmers the confidence to do what they do best. Now the beef industry has let them down, but they’re at a crossroads now.”