Store bullock prices have weakened slightly, but this is mainly due to increased numbers of slightly lesser-quality types on offer. Where quality is strong, prices are much steadier.

Bullocks from 500kg to 600kg sold from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg on average, with R+ and U grades selling from €2.40/kg to €2.60/kg.

Strong suckler areas

In stronger suckler areas, prices have remained much firmer than where greater numbers of lesser-quality types are on offer.

Lighter store cattle from 400kg to 500kg are selling from €2.30/kg to €2.40/kg for average-quality types, with the top third selling from €2.60/kg to €2.80/kg.

The heifer trade remains firm across the country. Heifers from 500kg to 600kg sold from €2.30/kg to €2.40/kg for average-quality types. R+ and U grades made from €2.50/kg to €2.70/kg.

Lighter store heifers were a strong trade also and sold from €2.30/kg to €2.50/kg for average-quality types, up slightly on last week.

The weanling trade is firm and numbers are tightening. Quality has reduced in some areas, but overall it remains quite good.

Bulls over 400kg are steady, with the average bull making €2.30/kg to €2.45/kg or €1,070 for a 450kg bull.

Bulls from 300kg to 400kg are selling from €2.40/kg to €2.50/kg on average, with the top third in terms of quality making from €2.80/kg to €3.00/kg.

Lighter types

Lighter types from 200kg to 300kg continue to be a strong trade. Bulls are selling from €2.70/kg to €2.80/kg for average-quality types, with the top third making from €3.15/kg to €3.30/kg.

Weanling heifers from 300kg to 400kg are selling from €2.50/kg to €2.60/kg backed by strong farmer demand. The top third sold from €2.80/kg to €2.90/kg.

Light heifers from 200kg to 300kg are a strong, steady trade, with average-quality lots making €2.70/kg to €2.90/kg, some 30c/kg or €60 to €90 more per head than the same time last year.

Firm cow trade

There continues to be strong demand for fleshed cull cows at all ringsides.

Fleshed continentals are making from €1.80/kg to €2.10/kg, with top-quality lots making up to €2.20/kg.

Feeding cows are variable, depending on weight and age. Prices are ranging from €1.60/kg to €1.80/kg.

Cows with calves at foot are selling from €1,300 to €1,800, with young cows frequently making from €1,500 to €1,700.