He said most hoggets are now making €7.00/kg, with deals of €7.10/kg on the cards particularly for larger lots. Cull ewes are making €3.30/kg to €3.50/kg.
Kevin Comiskey said severe sanctions by factories for overweight lambs are unnecessary and must be revisited as domestic demand strengthens and staffing issues ease at processing level.
“It’s important farmers sell hard in a rising market, while moving lambs as they become fit,” he said.
He said the mart trade, where there is good competition between butchers and wholesalers, is offering an alternative competitive outlet for heavier lambs and should be considered.