Sheep trade to stay ‘lively’

A BUOYANT lamb and sheep market looks set to continue over the coming weeks with marts reporting a ‘roaring trade’ so far this Summer.

Fears of the sheep trade taking a serious hit following the start of the COVID emergency in the second half of March have proven to be unfounded with demand outstripping supply.

The latest boost to the trade comes in the shape of the Eid al-Adha Muslim festival that runs from Thursday, July 30 to Monday, August 3.

IFA National Sheep Chairman, Seán Dennehy, said that factory prices had been driven up again over the past week or so by the upcoming Muslim festival and the consequent demand for Irish lamb.

“Lamb prices moved up sharply last week, driven by rising demand for the significant Muslim festival of Eid Al Adha, which begins on July 30.

“To get the numbers they need, some factories have had to increase their base price by as much as 20c/kg, with top prices including bonuses reaching €5.90/kg last week,” said Seán Dennehy.

Loughrea Mart Manager, Jimmy Cooney, said that as compared to the same period last year, there had been a big lift in the trade ‘across the board’.

“The trade has been very lively and not just for the finished lambs but for the stores and old ewes as well. Demand has been very strong and that’s most welcome for everyone,” said Jimmy Cooney.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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