Lamb prices have hardened further this week.

Most producers are now securing €5/kg and higher with some negotiating up to €5.10/kg.

The mart trade has also been very strong with sellers securing prices of €110/head to €120/head for fleshed lambs.

Very tight supplies and the countdown to Christmas have boosted demand.

IFA national sheep chair Sean Dennehy said farmers selling need to dig in and demand prices well above the lower quoted factory prices.