Still 10% fewer lambs to factories than 2002

Overall, there is very little change in lamb prices from a week ago, although there have been some rises and falls over the past week.

Base prices for the trade at the start of this week ranged from 353 back to 344 cent/kg (126 to 123p/lb), almost similar to a week earlier. Most marts experienced an easier trade on Monday, with prices back €1 or 2 per head.

The steadier trade has come on the back of improved demand and prices in Britain and an improved market for lamb, in France where supplies have been tighter over the past week.