The number of sheep slaughtered in Irish slaughter plants will be almost 400,000 head lower by the end of this week. Throughput up to the end of last week was recorded at 1.55m head equating to a reduction of almost 380,000 head, or 20%, on the corresponding period in 2024.

Throughput has averaged less than 40,000 head in recent weeks equating to a weekly shortfall of 18,000 head, or a 30% decline. While last week’s throughput increased marginally to 40,601 head it continues to run 30% lower.

The trade remains static with base quotes in the region of €7.60/kg to €7.70/kg and opening prices for quality assured lambs at €7.80/kg. Groups and regular sellers are being paid €7.85/kg to €7.90/kg with only a small volume of lambs traded by farmers exceeding this price range to a top of €8/kg plus.

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Northern Ireland

The trade in Northern Ireland is steady despite a couple of factories trying to reduce prices by 5p/kg. Base quotes for Thursday range from £6.45/kg to £6.50/kg (€7.46/kg to €7.52/kg) with prices towards the top end of the market 10p/kg to 15p/kg higher.

Meanwhile the mart trade is steady with store lambs making up the highest throughput in sales. Prices for lowland lambs range in the main from €3.40/kg to €3.65/kg.

Select lots are rising to €3.80/kg while ewe lambs with breeding potential continue to meet keen demand selling to €4/kg to €4.50/kg.