Strong farmer activity has improved prices of better-quality continental cattle in many areas. Mart managers commented that the weekend and special bank holiday sales saw farmers actively sourcing good-quality store cattle and weanlings.

Recent weeks have seen higher numbers of lighter weanlings and lesser-quality stock on offer across the country.

Solid export demand for light weanlings and bucket-fed weanlings has helped to place a floor under the prices of lighter and plainer weanlings. Prices of dairy heifers are reported to be back on last year, with average prices running at €1,050 to €1,150 for in-calf and calved heifers. The trade for in-calf and calved suckler cows and heifers continues to be mixed with farmers favouring stronger, better quality heifers.

Listen to a discussion of current beef and cattle prices in our podcast below:

Listen to "Beef prices under pressure" on Spreaker.

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Ringside comment: farmers are more active but quality waning