National average factory prices for steers, cows, heifers for the week 27 January 2013 to the 02 February 2014, as reported by the Department of Agriculture this week.
Steers
Factory prices received by farmers for steers more or less held firm last week with steers mainly making €4/kg. National average prices paid for U=3= cattle which was 415c/kg last week which represents a €0.5 increase when compared to the previous week. For cattle in the R=3= grade 403c/kg was received on average by farmers which was more or less unchanged on the previous week. For O=3= steers farmers received on average 386c/kg also which was down €0.3 on the previous week.
Cows
Average cow factory prices were down last week and are still at a low level. Top class U=3= cows were the main movers on average making 355c/kg down €0.15 on previous week. R=3= grade cows were slightly down on average receiving 334c/kg on average, down €0.2 on the previous week. Poorer grading O=3= were down last week at 305c/kg a fall of €0.6.
Heifers
Heifer factory prices were more or less unchanged across all grade classes last week. Quotes for heifers were generally in the region of €4.05/kg base price. Quality U=3= heifers were making 438c/kg on average last week €0.3 down on the previous week. Farmers killing R=3= heifers were receiving 421c/kg on average which is unchanged on the previous week. O=3= heifers average prices were on average 407c/kg paid.
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