Last Saturday’s sale at New Ross Mart saw a smaller sale ahead of next Saturday’s special show and sale. Mart manager Richard Kirwan said that the trade for store cattle was very strong once again, which he added was very surprising considering the weather conditions over the spring.

All heavy store bullocks are a very strong trade according to Richard, with Montbeliarde bullocks making up to €1,235 for 612kg or €2.02/kg. Forward Friesians were a strong trade also, with 595kg making €1,155 (€1.94/kg), while slightly lighter types made over €1.90/kg also. Demand for forward store continental bullocks and heifers are also brisk, with prices of good-quality continentals making from €2.20/kg to €2.40/kg. However, the number of better-quality forward bullocks on offer was low, as farmers are holding the best bullocks for next week’s special sale.

The calf sale was steady, with Friesian prices slightly improved. Exporters are keeping a firm floor under prices, with prices from €60 to €110/head. Farmer activity was slightly higher the last week or two for better-quality calves, with prices of €130 to €160/head. The number of Angus and Hereford calves on offer are well up on the same time last year. Demand for Angus calves is not quite able to meet supply and prices are well back for plain calves as a result, but square Angus and Herefords are still a strong trade.