Mart managers are reporting increased cow numbers again in recent weeks. However, demand is said to be fairly firm.

Although numbers are increasing, the increase is slow and steady in the south as dairy cows are coming out of the parlour.

Prices of Frieisan parlour cows have remained firm and feeders are active.

The majority of Friesians are selling from €100 under to €100 over the weight. Friesian cows carrying flesh are continuing to make from €150 to €250 over the weight, with some outstanding types making over €350 along with the weight.

Suckler cow prices are quite firm also. Old, plain boner-type cows are a weak trade. However, where average-quality feeding cows are coming to the fore, prices of €1.40/kg to €1.70/kg are common, with younger cows and those carrying more flesh the best trade.

Fleshed continental cows continue to be snapped up by factory agents and short-term finishers. Prices of these are steady, with fleshed continental cows making from €1.70/kg to €1.85/kg.

The number of Friesian runner calves on offer is increasing through the marts and farm-to-farm sales. Better-quality bull calves from 220kg to 280kg are making from €1.65/kg to €1.85/kg, with quality having a large impact on prices. Demand is strongest for better-quality types. Where Angus and Hereford bucket-reared calves are on offer, prices are quite strong with 250kg types selling frequently for around €2.00/kg to €2.20/kg.

Mart manager’s comment

There has been a bit more confidence around the ring this week. The trade for forward-store bullocks and heifers has been livelier and farmers and feeders have been more active for cattle. Over the past two weeks, forward-store prices have improved by up to €100/head. We were getting more plainer cattle a few weeks ago, but this week quality has turned the corner once again. The sheep trade has seen a slight improvement. Store lambs are up by about €5/head with many making €40 to €45 over the weight. Factory lambs are slightly up on last week also, but only by a few euros.

Alan Barry, Athenry