After slipping the previous week, strong shipper demand resulted in prices for both younger and older Friesian bull calves increasing by €40/head.

Based on Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) data from the sale of 8,216 Friesian bull calves last week, those aged from three to six weeks of age traded for an average of €312/head, while those aged between 10 and 20 days old averaged €285/head.

Angus-cross bulls aged between three and six weeks of age bounced back up €27/head for an average of €531/head, while Hereford-cross bulls traded for €555/head, up €14/head on last week.

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Mart managers across the country are reporting increased purchasing by shippers, with strong demand coming from the Netherlands.

Mart manager, Seán Dennehy said: “Shippers kept a really solid floor under trade especially for the lighter calves. Prices were steady regardless of what time the calves were sold.

“A 60kg Friesian bull calf is now making what the top Angus was two years ago. That’s a fierce increase.

“There were 2,550 calves in Bandon Mart on Monday and there was no let-up in bidding for the duration of the sale.”

Commenting on current prices, Mid-Kerry Mart manager, Linda Daly said: “It’s some difference. Last year Friesian bulls over 48kg were making €120 to €170 whereas this year they’re making €230 to €320. Nobody wanted those calves two years ago and if they made €10 or €30 the farmers were happy to accept it.”