Farmers are hopeful that lamb prices will settle after very significant falls recently. Prices for factory fit lambs are ranging from €95 to €102/head but prices over €100/head are less frequent.

Factory price cuts and a difficult store lamb trade has contributed to the price reductions.

There are a number of lambs being presented for sale with large frames but lacking adequate flesh cover which is limiting the price attainable.

Heavier lambs weighing 47kg to 50kg that may attract butcher buyers are selling from €100 to €110/head, or €50 to €53 over the weight.

Lighter lambs weighing 40kg to 43kg are selling from €90 to €95/head. Some farmer buyers are taking on these lambs as short-keep stores. While some lambs in this weight range with flesh are being bought up by factory agents.

The store lamb trade is looking a little brighter after a difficult start. Mart managers are commenting that more buyers are turning up to sales despite the lack of grass supply. Lowland-bred lambs weighing 36kg to 40kg are selling for €80 to €90/head, or €44 to €50 over the weight. Lighter lambs weighing 30kg to 35kg are selling from €65 to €80/head, or €35 to €45 over.

Cull ewes

Cull ewe prices have come under some pressure recently too. Prices have slipped by €5 to €10/head in some sales.

Top prices for heavy ewes with flesh is ranging from €110 to €120/head.

Most fleshed lots are moving from €95 to €110/head. Lighter feeding ewes are selling from €65 to €90/head.