Strong trade for beef and store cattle
Best of the continental beef bullocks fetched up to €475 over €/kg in a flying trade and a top price of more than €500 over was paid for a beef heifer. Reports from all areas saw very strong demand with a bit of buzz in the trade with expectation of an extended ban on South American beef for the European markets giving a boost to prospects for prices during the coming months.
There was a slight rise in numbers on offer at Bandon where there was a firm trade for bullocks and heifers and a very good trade for cows.
Heavy bullocks ranged €180 over to €255 over, lighter lots ranging €160 to €230 over. Heavy heifers made up to €200 over and stores sold at €130 to €180 over.
With 700 head on offer at Kilkenny, excellent prices were paid for quality store bullocks, with a lively trade for heifers. Heavy bullocks ranged €160 over to €475 over, forward store bullocks ranging to €380. Beef heifers ranged €175 over to €360 over and stores ranged €200 to €270 over €/kg.
Prices were equally strong at Ennis where there was a very strong trade for 800 head on offer with prices improved by €20-€25/head. A top price of €470 over was paid for heavy continental bullocks. Heifers set a record when a 616kg Charolais sold for €1,120. Heifer prices ranged from €200 over.
Bullocks were €30/head dearer and beef and store heifers made gains of up to €40/head at Blessington.
