Sheep farmers are being urged to ignore low factory quotes for lambs this week as €6.30/kg is readily available, according to Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association (ICSA) sheep chair, Sean McNamara.

“Farmers have no reason to accept any less," he said.

"Factories are still imposing a weight limit of 21.5kg, which is surprising, given that the weight limit is normally 22kg from the start of September. Lambs above this will do better in marts,” he said.

The sheep chair also pointed out that the importation of lambs, both live and dead, is a sure sign that factories cannot keep up with the demand.

“I want reassurances from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine that all imported product is fully monitored and that none of it is being sold as Irish quality-assured lamb.

"It is vital that we have full transparency and a robust inspection process in place.”