Spring lambs are making the equivalent of €8.50-8.60/kg in the marts as prices strengthen further coming into this week.
This is according to Sean McNamara of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association (ICSA).
Speaking to Agriland, Sean said: “Lamb prices at marts have strengthened coming into this week and are now making over €180/head.
“This is the equivalent of €8.50-8.60/kg and even more for lambs making €183-184/head at marts. Prices at marts have strengthened coming into this week as buying has commenced for the Eid al-Adha festival in July.
“This should hopefully see prices continue to move in an upward direction in the weeks to come as buying gets into full swing for Eid al-Adha.
“Factories are hungry for lambs and with hoggets as good as gone and with spring lambs still not plentiful it’s creating a strong firm trade.
“Prices have firmed up with factories paying up to €8.40/kg for spring lambs. With the mart trade strengthening, the best thing to do is weigh up both options [either the factory or mart] and see what is best avenue to sell lambs through.
“Hoggets are holding firm still with prices at €7.30-7.40/kg. The cull ewe trade is also strong with prices up to €4.10/kg being secured.”