Lamb prices remain steady again this week, but ewe prices have continued their upwards trend. A price rise of 10c/kg to 20c/kg has occurred at all plants for good quality ewes this week.

Last week’s top price of €2.70/kg for ewes has now become the more common price paid today (Thursday), with reports of deals paid to €2.90/kg when all quality assurance bonuses are included.

Factories have held their base quotes at €4.40/kg today. General prices paid around the country are still €4.60/kg to €4.65/kg, but carcase weight limits have moved onto 22kg at most plants. There have been reports of deals paid to 23kg carcase weight also.

Top prices of €4.70/kg are being reported with greater frequency this week. Steady factory prices have filtered through to the live trade, with good demand for fat lambs and cull ewes giving sheep farmers a good alternative to market their animals.