Mart managers are reporting lower numbers than normal at sales around the country.

In the south of the country, calf numbers are starting to increase on par with the same time last year.

In terms of calf sales, the initial results show that Friesian bull prices are well back on the same time last year, but all Angus and Herefords are a steady trade when compared with last year.

The cattle trade so far is sluggish, with Brexit definitely having an impact on both demand and supply.

The initial signs indicate that farmers seem to be reluctant to sell cattle in the current climate, with most waiting until demand increases with grass growth to maximise on sale prices.

Buyers are active in the market, but, like last autumn, the majority of demand is for better-quality stores.

Feedlot buyers are quiet, but so too is the supply of suitable finishing cattle over 500kg. The number of in-calf dairy heifers and cows on offer has increased substantially in the past few weeks.

Steers

Quality and age are the main things affecting the price of heavy bullocks over 600kg. While numbers on offer are very low, better-quality continentals are selling from €2.00/kg to €2.20/kg. Out-of-spec stock are being met with mixed demand. The average 550kg steer is making €1,045, some €50/head less than the same time last year. Demand for stores is steady, with the average 450kg bullock selling for €900 or €2.00/kg. Average prices are running 17c/kg or almost €80/head below the same time last year.

Heifers

While demand for heifers has improved slightly in the past week, prices are still running well behind last year’s levels. Farmer buyers are active but are more cautious with uncertainty over Brexit. The average 550kg heifer is selling for €1,100, back €80/head on last year. The top third are selling from €2.20/kg to €2.30/kg on average. Lighter store heifer prices have improved slightly, but supply and demand are said to be back on last year. Where Angus and Hereford heifers are on offer, prices of €1.70/kg to €1.80/kg are common.

Weanlings

Some mart managers have said that there is a little more bite in the weanling trade in the past few days, with more farmer buyer activity to be seen at the ringside. Feeding bulls over 450kg are still in demand, but only few are available. The average 350kg bull is making €780/head, while the top third are making €900/head. There is some export activity for good-quality dairy-cross Angus, which is putting a firm floor under prices. Weanling heifer prices are running about €10 to €20/head behind bulls.

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