Monday’s sale at Kilmallock Mart saw an improved trade for almost all cattle types.

Denis Kirby of Golden Vale Marts told the Irish Farmers Journal that prices across the board were up. He said this was because of a slightly smaller seasonal sale combined with strong demand. He added that above average grass growth for the time of year was also one of the main drivers behind higher prices at Monday’s sale.

Denis said bullocks from 450kg to 550kg saw prices increase by about €29/head on the previous week, while types from 550kg upwards saw the average prices increase by €55/head on the previous week. Bullocks from 400kg to 500kg sold mainly from €1.60/kg to €2.44/kg while those from 500kg upwards made from €1.75/kg to €2.38/kg.

Heifers under 350kg saw prices rise by just over €20/head, while types from 350kg to 500kg saw prices edge up by about €14/head. Denis said that despite strong demand, prices of heifers over 500kg were unchanged at Monday’s sale. Heifers from 400kg to 500kg sold from €1.76/kg to €2.38/kg while heavier types made from €1.70/kg to €2.05/kg.

There was very strong demand for all good-quality weanling bulls at the sale also. Farmer buyers and some export demand resulted in prices increasing by over €60/head. However, Denis added that the number of top-quality bulls on offer was low. The numbers of these types are expected to take off in a few weeks’ time with the start of the special autumn weanling sales at the mart.

The cow trade was slightly improved also. Thin cows under 500kg were up by €40/head, while those from 500kg to 650kg saw prices increase by €35/head. Denis said that there was improved demand for forward and fleshed cows also and prices increased by €46/head. Fleshed cows sold from €1.80/kg to €1.90/kg, with top-quality types making €2.00/kg.

In the calf ring, Angus and Hereford continue to dominate, with solid demand from western and midlands buyers. The top price was €630 which was paid for a Limousin suckler-bred calf born 27 May. Commission rates are 1.5% to the seller and €9.30 upwards to the buyer. Commission rates for calves are from €3.50/head upwards.