Steady prices at smaller sales

Marts: Prices were maintained at smaller sales of cattle at marts yesterday as farmers took time off to attend the National Ploughing Championships at Tullow, Co Carlow.

Factory buyers continued to be active around the ringsides in search of beef cattle, the supply of which appears to be showing early signs of decline, while demand for beef remains very strong.

There was a smaller sale at Bandon Mart where trade was unchanged for bullocks and heifers, with an “excellent” trade for cows. Up to €360 over was paid for heavy bullocks, while lighter stores peaked at €280 over.