Less competition has allowed factory agents to succeed in pulling finished lamb prices again this week, but only by a few euro per head.

Lambs from 45kg to 50kg are selling mainly from €90 to €105/head, with prices rising to close on €110/head at the top of the market. Prices are averaging at about €100/head.

Lighter types from 40kg to 45kg have seen prices ease slightly once again, but again only by €2 to €3/head. The main demand is resulting in prices of €87 to €96/head being achieved for these, with the average around €90/head.

Stores from 35kg to 40kg are selling mainly from €72 to €78/head, back by up to €5/head in some areas.

However, there are strong indications of slightly improved farmer demand, with some farmers in the west starting to source stores to graze off wetter areas of farms.

Light stores from 30kg to 35kg are selling mainly from €60 to €70/head, with prices averaging at €66/head.

Breeding sales are a little mixed, depending on the quality on offer. In many cases, the quality of breeders is starting to drop slightly and this is starting to affect prices.

Good-quality first- and second-crop ewes are selling mainly from €120 to €150, with prices of €160 to €170 paid for choice lots at special sales.

Demand for ewe lambs is strong and buyers continue to be active. Prices are ranging mainly from €950 to €120 and up to €135 for top-quality types.

The cull ewe trade has steadied again, with prices ranging mainly from €85 to €115 for good-quality fleshed types.