Demand for straw remains low across the country as the good weather sees buyers hold off.

Tillage farmers who are forced to clear fields are willing to take as low as €8 for 4x4 bales.

Transport costs have remained the same and, in some cases, are costing as much per bale for long distances.

Tillage farmers in the west are able to get €14 to €15 a bale off the field.

Mushroom compost buyers forward bought 8x4x4 bales for €32 to €34 a bale earlier in the summer. However, they are benefiting in being able to buy as low as €27 to €29/bale at present, over €10/bale less than last year.

8x4x3 are costing €20 to €22/bale and are in greater demand. Small, square straw bales are making €2.

Hay continues to make €18 to €20 for second-cut 4x4 bales, with higher prices of €22 for stored bales.

Prices as low as €15/4x4 bale are being traded in the midlands and southeast for very late-cut and poorer-quality bales.

First-crop, high-quality hay bales are being advertised for €25 to €28/4x4, with large, stored square bales advertising for €30+. Small squares are trading for €2 to €3.