There is significant variability in hogget sales across Ireland.

The variation is stemming from the impact of drought in certain regions.

The Borris Sheep Breeders Association premier sale held last Saturday reported the activity of buyers in the surrounding hinterland as being greatly curtailed by serious soil moisture deficits and depleted grass supplies.

The average prices were back on the record prices witnessed in 2025 but were still relatively positive with hoggets averaging at €325/head and ewe lambs at €230/head.

In contrast, the sale of hoggets in Ballymena Mart in Co Antrim saw average hogget prices increase by a substantial figure of £55/head (€67/head) to reach £328/head (€385/head).

Prices paid in general hogget sales in Ireland range in the main from €270/head to €330/head for the best-quality lots with select lots rising to €350/head plus while lighter and plainer-quality types are selling back to €200 to €220/head.