Seasonal drop marks smaller sales

The seasonal drop in the number of cattle being marketed, coinciding with summer work on farms, became evident at the mart sales around the country yesterday.

The trade for the smaller number of cattle on offer continued very firm overall, varying from a sharp demand at some centres to slightly weaker at others, which may have more to do with the quality of stock on offer at a particular venue than any change in the trade.

A smaller entry at Bandon Mart experienced similar trade to last week for the coloured bullocks and the good Friesian type bullocks were a little dearer. Up to €325 over was paid for the heavy continental breed bullocks, lighter stores selling for €180 over to €270 over. Friesian stores made €80 over to €170 over.