Ireland: Prices up but icy conditions easing supply

Factory quotes for finished cattle have moved on another notch since last Monday, as beef price continues to move in a positive direction. Factory procurement staff in some parts of the country have said that dangerous road conditions as a result of the cold weather is causing many farmers with finished cattle to remain at home. Despite this, it seems they are confident that they will fill out kill sheets to sufficient levels this week with many saying “the pressure is off” with regards to filling out Christmas beef orders. Demand remains good for all types of finished stock and procurement staff remain willing to negotiate where bigger numbers of cattle are on offer. Bare Friesian cows continue to appear at lairages in droves and while most agents are advising farmers to feed cows on for a few weeks, it seems many farmers are happy to move cull dairy cows on at fat scores of one and two and take the money that’s on offer. Some outlets are paying much better than others this week ...