The past few weeks have seen continued strong demand for good-quality cow and calf teams at marts right across the country.

High cull cow values at marts and in factories is said to be the main driver of the strong trade. In many cases, good-quality young cow and calf teams are easily making from €1,600 to €1,800 and to over €2,000 in several areas of the country.

Older cows or those in poorer condition are a variable trade, with prices ranging from €1,300 to €1,500/team.

There are some old cows on offer, from eight to 10 years, and demand for these is still good, with heavier old cows coming into good money based on the cull cow value.

In some cases, these heavy old cow and calf teams are rivalling the prices being paid for top-quality younger cows.

Stars have had an impact in recent weeks also, with some farmers looking to source cows of four or five stars.

They have been met with slightly improved demand as farmers look to source these ahead of this year’s deadline for the BDGP scheme.

Heifers with breeding potential continue to be a very strong trade, but demand was stronger one to two months ago.