National average factory prices for steers, cows, heifers for the week 10 February 2013 to the 16 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 411c/kg last week which represents a €0.01 fall when compared to the previous week. For cattle in the R=3= grade 399c/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 383c/kg also which was down €0.07 on the previous week.
Cows
Average cow factory prices were down last week and are still at a low level. Although top class U=3= cows held firm on average making 350c/kg down unchanged previous week, but down €0.20 on three weeks ago. R=3= grade cows unchanged receiving 330c/kg on average, down €0.04 on the previous week. Poorer grading O=3= were down last week at 297c/kg a fall of €0.06.
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 436c/kg on average last week showing down €0.03 on the previous week. Farmers killing R=3= heifers were receiving 415c/kg on average which is down €0.02 on the previous week. O=3= heifers average prices were 396c/kg paid also down €0.07 on the previous week.