Throughput in recent weeks has faltered badly, now running over 350,000 head lower than in 2023.
The Westmeath farmer was reelected president of the drystock farmers’ association on Wednesday evening.
Rachel Gallagher reports from Ballybofey and Stranorlar Livestock Mart for the final sheep sale of 2024.
Cattle prices continue to rise on the back of rampant processing demand, with base quotes now on 508p/kg. Lamb prices are also rising, with 700p/kg common place.
Mart throughput in recent weeks has benefitted from a vibrant live trade encouraging producers struggling to negotiate higher prices with factories to sell live.
Opening prices for quality assured (QA) lambs are in the region of €8.70/kg in most plants, with agents keen to try to maximise throughput over the Christmas processing schedule.
While there may be a perception that ewes are in good condition Teagasc are finding that some flocks have significant numbers of ewes requiring preferential treatment.
The EU has already lost one-eight of its sheep output over the past 10 years before EU and UK free trade deals with NZ hit farmers.
To date there have been 22 instances of dog attacks/ stray dogs in my area since December 2022, recorded by myself alone.
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