Spring lamb prices are holding firm in the main. Attempts by factories to reduce quotes have had mixed results in the marts, with prices easing for some factory fit lambs.

However, this was not widespread and factory agents were still willing to go the extra distance to secure quality lambs.

Prices in some sales were as strong as they have been in previous weeks, with no reductions reported.

Factory-fit lambs weighing 42kg to 46kg are selling for €125 to €145/head, or €87 to €96 over the weight.

In some sales, prices were €2 to €3/head easier for lambs in this weight range, but, as mentioned previously, this was not a widespread occurrence.

Butcher-types

Heavier butcher-type lambs are in demand. These lambs weighing over 47kg are selling from €145 to €150/head, depending on the level of flesh cover. Lighter lambs weighing 35kg to 41kg are making €110 to €124/head, or €75 to €83 over.

Hoggets are really starting to become scarce in sales, but, just like the spring lambs, price remains solid.

Hoggets weighing 48kg to 50kg are making €130 to €145/head, or €82 to €95 over the weight. Top prices of €150/head were paid for very heavy lots.

Cull ewe prices remain steady too. Fleshed ewes are moving from €110 to €135/head, with top prices of €150/head paid for very heavy ewes. Feeding ewes are selling from €70 to €105/head.

Ewes with lambs at foot continue to trade in mart sales. Ewes with one lamb are selling from €120 to €190/unit. Ewes with two lambs are selling from €180 to €270/unit on average, with top prices exceeding €300/unit for quality lots.