FMD scare drives lamb and beef gains

Marts: Within twenty-four hours of confirmation of the latest outbreak of FMD in Surrey, there has been market reaction with gains for both beef and lamb prices at marts and factories yesterday.

Beef prices at the marts increased by up to €15/head with scarce supplies of lamb increasing by up to €20/head as the market reacted to the re-introduction of the ban on livestock movement in Britain and the anticipation of stronger demand to replace British supplies. The impact of the ban on movement will be felt almost immediately on the prime French market for lamb supplies from Britain has returned to normal and were setting strong competition for Irish exporters over the past two weeks.

Kildare Chilling increased the quoted base price for lambs by 14 cents/kg (5p/lb) yesterday morning offering 364 c/kg (130p/lb) and producers reported deals returning higher prices throughout the day.

Prices were improved by up to €8/head at Bandon mart where there was smaller entry of lambs selling for up to €35 over. Meanwhile in the west, some centres reported gains of up to €20/head at the live sales as the trade experienced a boost similar to that which benefited producers during the previous FMD restrictions in Britain.

The reaction was also positive for beef sales. At Bandon mart there was a lively trade for the quality continental heifers which sold for up to €405 over, while at Kilkenny Mart, heifers were improved by €15/head with quality lots making up to €330 over.

A Charolais weighing 635kg made €1,030,

There was also a much sharper trade for the beef bullocks with a top price of €650 over being paid for a 775kg Belgian Blue sold for €1,420. Another Blue weighing 910kg sold for €1,380, three Charolais scaling 730kg sold for €1,130, and a continental weighing 690kg sold for €1,105, a Charolais weighing 635kg made €1,040, and a Charolais scaling 565kg fetched €925.