Rising costs and the struggle to make a living, even when cattle prices are good were some of the key talking points at the mart this week.

The delay in Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) and Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability Scheme (CRISS) payments was also among the hot topics when Agriland visited Ballymahon Mart.

Overall the mood was one of cautious optimism but any potential change to Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) payments is, according to many, troubling.

Trade appears to be holding up, but as one farmer told us there is a difference between getting a good price for your stock and having money left in your pocket.

"It’s the list that everybody else has. It’s no different round here as well," one farmer said.

And when it comes to the proposed cut to the CAP budget, there is real concern about what it could mean for farm families.

For many farmers, CAP payments are the money that is already accounted for, particularly when it comes to covering bills.

"They’re all waiting for it to go out," said one.

A key issue for farmers is that even with cattle prices performing well, rising expenses are taking their toll.

“The cost of everything has just gone beyond reach altogether,” one told Agriland.

In general it appears that trade has been fairly stable at Ballymahon Mart, with a noticeable increase in dairy stock.

Suckler farmers remain an important part of the picture too, producing quality weanlings and stores, while the return of calf sales in the spring looks promising.

For some there are also serious questions over what the long-term future of farming may look like in Ireland.

Still retirement overall, for many, appears out of the question - as one said:“I’ve reduced it a bit, but I’ll never give it up until I just pass on.

“It’s a great way of life".