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.

Supplies were tighter in Britain over the past week. Demand firmed through the week, as the supply situation remained tight and by the weekend, lambs were selling at the equivalent of 348 cent/kg (124p/lb). A tighter supply from Britain to France led to improved prices, with Irish lamb ranging from 330 to 340 cent/kg (118 to 121p/lb).

Irish supplies to the factories have increased in recent weeks, but the weekly kill continues about 10% lower than the corresponding weeks in 2002.

In the marts, there was a large sale of over 2,500 head at Kilkenny on Monday, with prices for butcher and factory lambs down by €1 or 2 per head. Prices for stores were easier by up to €3/head.

Numbers on offer were down slightly at Athenry Mart on Monday where lamb prices were generally easier by €1 or 2 per head.

A very lively trade for lambs was reported from Fermoy Mart on Monday, with plenty of customers and strong demand for the quality lots.