While it might seem logical that the record high-input prices farmers are facing this year would pull prices downwards, the opposite is happening.

This is in part because high prices for red meat and milk are leading some farmers to believe they should maintain output.

There is also a sense among dairy farmers that this year might form some type of reference for carbon allocations or cow numbers in future years, leading farmers into what one auctioneer described as “a dive for the tape”.

Cuts to CAP payments for tillage farmers will certainly affect their ability to compete for conacre and land for leasing, but these cuts don’t kick in until next year.

In Wexford, grassland has made €475/acre in one instance, with a number of parcels making over €400/acre

Among the strongest prices reported, one stands out, with over €600/acre paid for a small acreage of grassland in Laois. Interestingly, it’s understood that a drystock farmer saw off strong bidding from dairy farmers to secure the land for the year ahead.

In Wexford, grassland has made €475/acre in one instance, with a number of parcels making over €400/acre.

Land in Wicklow made over €400/acre for maize. The land market isn’t quite as hot in Munster, but €350/acre is being achieved for good grassland.

Land suitable for potatoes and vegetables is running similar to previous years despite the pressure in the vegetable sector.

Where farmers have contractual commitments, they need land to grow the crops required.

Land for maize and sugar beet is in short supply, with it being described as “a renters market”.