Last Saturday’s sheep sale at Baltinglass Mart saw another strong trade for all types of sheep, with stores continuing to be met with a very strong trade.

Joe Kinsella said that demand for stores has been very strong throughout the past few months and farmers continue to be very active for them. Light stores from 33kg to 34kg sold frequently for around €80/head.

In contrast, heavy lambs were making €102 to €103/head. He said that there was firm demand for good-quality ewe lambs also and prices ranged mainly from €115 to €120/head. The number of cast ewes on offer had reduced, according to Joe, but demand was firm.

Farmer buyers were most active for short-keep types suitable for finishing in January and February.

Prices of forward cast ewes ranged mainly from €60 to €84/head, with older and plainer types making from €50 to €60/head. Top-quality cast ewes sold up to €96/head.

Demand for factory lambs was quite firm, with factory agents active for all good-quality fleshed types. Those from 40 to 45kg sold mainly from €85 to €88/head, while heavier types from 45 to 50kg sold mainly from €93 to €97/head.

Heavy butchers’ lambs sold from €110 to €115/head. Commission rates are €1.50 to the buyer and 2% to the seller.