The sheep trade in Ireland has seen a significant boost in recent weeks, as hoggets reach the high price of €7/kg and spring lambs are expected to hit €8/kg. This trend is causing excitement and optimism among sheep farmers across the country, as they prepare for a busy spring season. However, as with any agricultural market, there are factors that can impact prices and demand. In this article, we take a closer look at the current state of the sheep trade and what farmers can do to make the most of this lucrative market.
Sheep prices are seeing a gradual recovery with hoggets reaching €7.00/kg and spring lamb prices approaching €8.00/kg. Hogget prices have risen by €1.00/kg in just six weeks while ewe prices have only increased by 20c/kg during the same period.
Hoggets
At Kildare Chilling, hoggets are available for €7.00/kg which includes a 10c/kg Quality Assurance (QA) bonus for carcasses weighing up to 23kg. Other outlets are offering €6.90-€6.75/kg plus QA bonuses for carcasses of up to 23kg.
Spring lamb
Kildare Chilling is offering spring lambs of up to 20kg carcass weight for €7.80/kg including a 10c/kg QA bonus, with other outlets offering €7.80-€7.75/kg plus QA bonuses for carcasses of up to 20.5kg.
Cull ewes
Ewe prices remain slow to increase, with Kildare Chilling offering €3.50/kg including a 10c/kg QA bonus for carcasses of up to 40kg. Other outlets are offering €3.30-€3.50/kg for carcasses of up to 46kg.
As the spring lamb season approaches, the sheep trade is seeing a surge in prices. Hoggets have reached an impressive €7/kg, with the prospect of spring lambs hitting €8/kg. This is good news for farmers who need to cover high winter feed costs and invest in their flocks for the coming season. However, it is also a reminder of the volatility of the sheep market and the importance of staying up to date with industry developments. As always, farmers must balance the demands of the market with the welfare of their animals, while keeping an eye on factors such as Brexit and changing consumer preferences. Despite the challenges, the sheep trade remains a vital part of Ireland’s agricultural landscape, with a long and proud history behind it.
