With increasing numbers passing through the marts in the past few days, the trade has steadied, with continued strong demand being exhibited for store cattle.

Demand for store heifers remains strong. Heavy heifers from 500kg to 600kg are generally making from €2.00/kg to €2.20/kg while lighter types from 400kg to 500kg are more available than heavier types and are selling mainly from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg. Better quality R+/U- grades making from €2.35/kg to €2.50/kg.

Store bullocks from 500kg to 600kg are only available in low numbers but have been met with firm demand. Prices of average quality types are ranging mainly from €2.00/kg to €2.10/kg. Lighter bullocks from 400kg to 500kg are selling mainly from €2.10/kg to €2.30/kg with the top third in terms of quality making over €2.40/kg.

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Where in-calf suckler cows are available, they are commanding strong prices of €1,300 to €1,500 for good quality young cows. Older and plainer lots are selling generally from €1,000 upwards. Weanling prices are said to be firm right across the country. Prices have steadied and weanling bulls from 300kg to 400kg are selling mainly from €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg.

The top third of bulls are making from €2.40kg to €2.60/kg. Heifer’s numbers remain low but prices are strong, average quality heifers are selling mainly from €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg with top quality lots selling from €2.50/kg to €2.60/kg.