Friesian

Adam Woods reports from Enniscorthy Mart’s special show and sale of cattle, which took place on Tuesday this week.

Strong demand is putting a very strong floor under calf prices at the moment and this was very evident in Cahir Mart for their sale on Friday evening last.

Calf exports have got off to a better start than last year, but remain well behind 2023 levels, as prices paid for calves at marts around the country are up considerably.

The 2025 calf trade is unrecognisable compared to last year, as calf numbers start to increase in marts around the country.

Calf numbers doubled compared to last week at the west Cork mart and trade is holding strong especially for Friesian bull calves.

Friesian bull calves have been the category of calves that have seen the highest percentage increase in price compared to last year according to the ICBF calf price summary.

Prices for some beef-crosses eased compared with last week, while trade for Friesian bull calves remained settled at Bandon Mart for its calf sale this week.

Calf sales early in the year always result in high prices but prices took a major bounce at this week's sale in Bandon compared with 2024.

The commercial beef value index is helping farmers rearing dairy beef calves in the Republic of Ireland source animals with stronger terminal traits. Kieran Mailey reports.