The turn-around in grass-growing conditions and subsequent boost to fodder supplies is having a positive effect at the ringside. This was noticeable at Kanturk Mart, where manager Seamus O’Keeffe said: “There was great trade all round, with most of the prices for adult cattle lifting in recent weeks. We only had two animals that went home unsold in a big sale of 480 weanlings and 320 adult cattle.”

With a lot of silage-making activity over the last three weeks, there appears to be a bit more confidence among buyers who, as close as a month ago, may have been short of fodder.

Seamus commented that: “It was the first time since June that there was plenty of buyers out. No question, that was down to the pickup in weather. Compared to even a month ago, there was a lift of almost €100/head in prices for heifers and bullocks and there was better demand for weanling heifers.”

The weanling trade was steady, with U grade bulls selling from €2.50/kg and upwards.

Beef-cross heifers and bullocks from the dairy herd were, in the main, selling for between €1.70/kg and €1.85/kg. Beef cows, especially younger cows, were making up to and over €1.50/kg. Most Friesians and older were selling from €1.20/kg to €1.35/kg. Commission rates are €8 to the seller and €10.50. Entry fee is €3 per head for bullocks, cows and heifers.