Market conditions for sheep meat are favourable, underpinned by strong supermarket performance, tight supplies and reduced volumes of imported lamb in our key markets, according to the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA).

Commenting on trade at present, IFA Sheep Committee chairman Sean Dennehy gave a breakdown of current prices:

"Hoggets are making €7.70 to €8.00/kg, Spring lamb €8.30/kg, with higher deals available and concessions on weights.

"Cull ewes are ranging from €3.10/kg to €3.50/kg.

The chairman noted that total lamb imports to the EU 27 and the UK from New Zealand are down 23% year on year, with EU 27 down 27% and the UK down 20%.

The sales of lamb in supermarkets continues to perform strongly, increasing in volume and value by 12% and 6% respectively for the latest 12-week period.

Highlighting that supplies are tight, Dennehy said:

Dennehy said prices in the UK and throughout the EU are strong.

He said there is no basis for negative market comment from factories. Numbers are tight, demand is strong, imports to the EU and the UK are low and consumer demand for lamb in the supermarkets continues to increase.

Concluding, the chairman said farmers should sell hard in this positive market environment, while moving lambs and hoggets as they become fit to maximise returns.