Some increases in beef prices

Marts: Eight factories increased the prices paid for cattle for last week’s kill in a partial reversal of the sharp decline in the return to producers the previous week as the downturn in supplies continued.

However the downward pressure on prices was maintained by an equal number of the plants, resulting in the national average remaining flat for R4L bullocks at 338c/kg (121p/lb).

Kildare chilling was up 4c/kg at 341c/kg, Meadow Meats, was 3c/kg higher at 335c/kg and Dunbia, and Kepak (Athleague and Clonee) increased by 2c/kg with gains also recorded at Moyvalley Meats, Slaney Meats and AIBP (Waterford). Donegal Meats slipped by 6c/kg to 346c/kg and Liffeys (Ballyjamesduff) were also back by 6c/kg at 342c/kg. AIBP (Nenagh and Cahir) lost 3c/kg to 336c/kg and 324c/kg respectively.