Prices for double-punched bullocks ease

PLAIN cattle and double-punched bullocks were a quieter trade at the marts yesterday, where the quality single-punched bullocks and store heifers continued to meet with a firm trade.

Prices for heavy double-punched bullocks have been easing through the week following the fall in prices and the fear of a further slide in beef prices if supplies to the factories continue to increase.

There was no offering of beef bullocks at Kilkenny Mart yesterday, where the entry dropped to 410 head. Forward double-punched bullocks dropped to range €144 to €192 over €/kg. All cattle were back at least €10/head with plain cattle showing a drop of €20-€30/head. The quality forward single-punched bullocks maintained their price best with up to €416 over €/kg being paid - four 504 kg Charolais sold at €920 - with most of the good single-punched in the 500 kg range selling €350-€400 over. Beef heifers ranged €170-€270 over with a good trade for the quality stores which ranged €130-€285 over.