National average factory prices for steers, cows, heifers for the week 3 February 2013 to the 9 February 2014, as reported by the Department of Agriculture this week.

Steers

Factory prices received by farmers for in spec steers more or less held firm last week with steers mainly making a base of €4/kg. National average prices paid for U=3= cattle was 412c/kg last week which represents a €0.03 fall when compared to the previous week. For cattle in the R=3= grade 401c/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 390c/kg also which was up €0.04 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 350c/kg down €0.05 on previous week and down €0.20 on two weeks ago. R=3= grade cows unchanged receiving 334c/kg on average, down €0.02 on the previous week. Poorer grading O=3= were down last week at 303c/kg a fall of €0.02.

Heifers

Heifer factory prices under downward pressure 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 439c/kg on average last week showing little change the previous week. Farmers killing R=3= heifers were receiving 417c/kg on average which is down €0.04 on the previous week. O=3= heifers average prices were 403c/kg paid also down €0.04 on the previous week.

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