The factories have maintained their quotes at 326p and 328p/kg for U-3 grade steers and 328p/kg for heifers.

However, with prime finished cattle numbers reported to be slightly tighter this week at some factories, there remains considerable scope for farmers to negotiate deals well above these levels. Last week the prices paid for U3 grade steers were at 339p/kg, with U3 heifers at 340p/kg.

Overall, steers and heifers averaged 327.13p/kg, up 2.5p/kg on the previous week, and the highest average price paid in NI for nearly 12 months.

Some in the trade claim that beef sales remain slow, although sources point out that while manufacturing beef can be difficult to move, other cuts are selling well.

The trade is being helped by a strong market in Britain, where supplies have remained tight, and there are no waiting lists at factories. It has meant there has been a gradual increase in the differential between NI prices and those in Britain, which now stands at around 20p/kg on some of the better conformation grades. According to sources there, the decision by factories to implement tighter weight limits (similar to NI) has actually worked against processors as it has reduced the amount of beef available to the market.

The other factor is the continued weakness of sterling against the euro which makes Irish beef less price competitive in Britain. In sterling terms, the prices paid for heifers in the Republic of Ireland are on a par with those paid north of the Irish border.

Cow trade

With strong numbers of cows coming forward, one plant has shaved 5p off its cow quote.

However, the best quote for an O+3 grade cow remains at 250p/kg, with others quoting 245p and 240p/kg.

Best quote for an R grade is 255p/kg, with actual prices paid for Rs 12p/kg ahead of this quote last week.