Following a sharp decline in the national suckler heard in the last 10 years, numbers have risen to 734,068 – an increase of 18,956, or 2.7%. Every county has seen a rise in cow numbers except for Dublin, with most experiencing growth of between 2% and 3%.
It is a much-welcomed boost of confidence for suckler farmers, on the back of a strong year in 2025.
Supported by a strong weanling price and a high demand for suckler-bred weanlings for export, farmers were rewarded for their cattle.
As we head into the autumn breeding season, cattle are generally back €1/kg across the board when compared to the same week last year, but quality cattle are still commanding a premium price – with top weanlings crossing the €6/kg mark.
Ahead of the upcoming breeding season, ICBF has a guide on how to interpret its index on page 48. Meanwhile on page 49, we have a snapshot of the current active bull list most applicable to suckler farmers, with the top terminal bulls across a number of the main breeds.
Traditionally, AI usage has been higher in autumn-calving suckler herds, with farmers focusing on terminal bulls more suited towards the popular weanling and export market.
If you’re trying to breed for the weanling market, farmers are recommended to select for high-carcase weight and confirmation bulls, that fall within an acceptable calving difficulty range.
The Irish Farmers Journal livestock team is delighted to be teaming up with Teagasc and a number of AI companies to host a series of mart events across the country, with 15 taking place over the next two months.
We preview these on pages 46 and 47, as well as a report from a recent talk held in Mohill Mart – to give a snapshot of what farmers can expect to see.
A live display of cattle will be at each event, with Progessive Genetics, Munster Bovine and Dovea Genetics all showcasing progeny of their range of sires.
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