Last Saturday’s calf sale at Cashel Mart saw an increased number of calves on offer. There were about 100, which is a little less than the same time last year, but the real explosion in calves is expected in the next week or two. The trade for calves was quite strong. There were exporters present active for shipping-type calves. Prices paid for these Friesian bulls ranged mainly from €70 to €120.

Farmer activity was quite strong also for all better-quality Friesian calves. These stronger Friesian calves were bought by farmers at prices of €140 to €160/head. There was a share of Angus and Hereford calves on offer also, with farmer buyers very active. Prices ranged mainly from €250 to €340/head.

There were about 80 lots of cattle on the day also and these were a strong trade. Some of the better-quality Frieisian bullocks made up to €2.00/kg, which was paid for a 320kg bullock that sold for €650. The heifers were a strong trade also, with better demand for all continental cattle.

Saturday also saw a charity auction take place at the mart, the proceeds of which went to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

An 865kg Highland bullock made €2,220 for charity, while a 350kg Hereford bull made €1,820. A Frieisian heifer suck calf made €500.