Pig producers keep an eye on slaughter capacity as Galtee closes

PIG slaughtering capacity without Galtee will be tested over the coming few weeks as supplies increase before and after Christmas, according to IFA.

Pigs have been diverted to other factories after the Galtee, Mitchelstown closure.

This week, pig prices are unchanged, according to IFA, ranging from 136 cent to 144 cent/kg, with demand from Northern Ireland steady, and forward prices up to €1.40/kg on offer from October to March.

Dawn export plants quote 140 cent to 143 cent/kg flat rate net, with 136 to 142 on offer in Glanbia. Welfare pigs average €1.45 to €1.48/kg.

Pork slaughterer prices are unchanged, from 136 cent to 142 cent/kg.

Weaner quotes are improved, ranging from €46 to €49 for 32 kg weaners.

Sow prices are steady, averaging €32to - €35/cwt liveweight or €0.89 to €0.98 per kg deadweight.

Slaughterings for the week ended October 25 totalled 52,274 for pigs and 2,398 for sows.

Average prices were €1.36/kg in Ireland and €1.42/kg in the EU-25, for Grade E pigs at 55% to 60% lean meat, excluding VAT but including transport and bonuses.