Carrigallen Mart had a big entry of heifers at Monday nights sale. Trade was brisk with good-quality heifers in very high demand. Summer-grazing farms are starting to become more and more active in recent weeks as land in the northwest becomes available for grazing.

Mart manager Helen Kells commented: "We've seen an increase in farmer activity over the past two weeks with a number of agents also buying for summer-grazing farmers as land in the northwest dries up and becomes ready for grazing. We are seeing a massive difference in the trade for good-quality lots versus poorer dairy-cross lots.

"Most of our farmer customers are looking for that good-quality Charolais or Limousin that will deliver growth rate and hit top grades at kill out," Helen said.

Good-quality heifers for breeding up to 500kg were making in the region of €2.50-€2.80kg with lesser-quality types making €2.10-€2.50/kg.

Sample prices:

  • LMX @ 545kg: €1,430
  • LM @ 555kg: €1,330
  • LMX @ 695kg: €1,340
  • CHX @ 490kg: €1,190
  • LMX @ 525kg: €1,330

    • Plainer-quality cattle including dairy-cross heifers were a lesser trade with many of these types struggling to hit €2/kg. Heavier dairy-cross heifers closer to slaughter were a better trade

    Good-quality fleshed dry cows were a good trade with under-fleshed Freisian dry cows a lesser trade. Fleshed cows were hitting close to €500 with the weight, while some exceptional lots were hitting €600 along with the weight.