IFA National Sheep Chairman Sean Dennehy said demand for lamb is outweighing supplies and factories are paying well above quoted prices to secure numbers.
“The practice of quoting prices that in no way reflect the market is angering farmers and undermining producer groups who have made commitments to factories,” he said.
Sean Dennehy said there is an urgent need for greater transparency through accurate up-to-date factory price reporting.
“Despite lower quotes, €8.00/kg is freely available throughout the country to 21kgs. Higher deals are available on price, up to €8.30/kg, and on weight to 21.5/kgs. Some factories are also offering transport to close out deals. Hoggets are generally moving for €7.50/kg, with cull ewes from €3.30 to €3.55/kg.”
He said factory agents and wholesalers are very active in the marts and providing a real competitive alternative, particularly to the lower factory quoted prices.
Sean Dennehy said farmers should sell hard while moving lambs as they become fit to maximise returns.
