From January to October 2024, Ireland saw a 2.4% increase in cattle slaughterings, reaching about 1.6 million head, and a 1.5% rise in pig slaughterings to approximately 2.8 million head, while sheep slaughterings fell by nearly 167,000 head to around 2.5 million head. In October 2024 alone, cattle and pig slaughterings increased by 6.9% and 8.3% respectively, whereas sheep slaughterings decreased by 7.5% compared to the same month in 2023. Bord Bia highlighted that prime cattle throughput remains similar to last year but anticipates a reduction in availability due to fewer cattle numbers and strong export demand. Additionally, average carcass weights are dropping because of a tough grass growing season and a greater dairy influence on cattle production.