The past week at the marts has seen a slight realignment of prices with those seen about three weeks ago. Although average prices recorded in the past seven days are back slightly, most mart managers are reporting a steady trade for good-quality continental-type cattle, as number on offer fall.

Factory agents were active all last week in securing fleshed cows and prime cattle. Mart managers have said that a similar trend has been evident in recent days. The weanling trade continues to be strong in most areas.

However, feeding or store cows are said to be back slightly, with most specialised feeders having secured numbers.

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The number of cattle on offer at the marts has been said to be running well ahead of the same time last year. However, most mart managers have said that overall throughput for the year to date is similar to 2015 in most areas.

Steers

Farmer buyers continue to be very active for all good-quality store bullocks. Good grass growth has been a driving factor. The average 550kg steer is currently making €2.10/kg to €2.20/kg, or €1,188/head. Better-quality U grade continentals are making from €2.40/kg to €2.50/kg. Lighter store bullocks from 400kg to 500kg have been met with strong farmer demand also. The average 400kg to 500kg bullock is selling for €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg, or €1,125 for 500kg. Plainer types and Friesians are making from €1.75/kg to €1.85/kg.

Heifers

The heifer trade has seen average price drop slightly, but in the main, the biggest reduction in prices has been for plainer types. Continental heifers are said to be a steady trade. Heifers over 500kg are making €2.10/kg to €2.30/kg, or €1,215 for 550kg. U grade heifers are making up to €2.45/kg in many areas. Lighter stores from 400kg to 500kg have been reasonably firm, with prices ranging from €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg for average-quality types. Angus and Herefords continue to sell from €1.90/kg to €2.10/kg, depending on quality.

Weanlings

Farmer demand for weanling bulls continues to be very strong right across the country. There is some exporter activity, but mainly for top-quality types. Forward bulls over 400kg are firm and selling at €2.25/kg to €2.35/kg. Bulls from 300kg to 400kg are selling for €2.30/kg to €2.50/kg, with top-quality types making over €2.90/kg. Weanling heifer prices are running about 5c to 10c/kg ahead of the equivalent bull price, with farmers the main source of demand at the ringside. The average 350kg heifer is making €855/head.