The trade for sheep at Ennis Mart yesterday (Monday, October 5) was described as being slightly stronger than the previous week, according to the mart's manager, Martin McNamara.

He added that there was a firm trade for lambs across the board with prices topping €147/head for 51kg.

Speaking to Agriland after the sale, Martin said: "We had 470 sheep on offer on Monday with a slightly improved trade seen on the week before.

"Those heavy butcher lambs topped out at €147/head, while the factory lambs made up to €137/head. There was a good appetite among factory agents for those finished lambs.

"Moving onto the cull ewe trade, it hasn't been as hot in recent weeks and on Monday prices topped €139/head, with many selling upwards of €100/head.

"The one disappointing aspect of the trade so far this year has been the trade for breeding sheep. Hogget ewes haven't lived up to expectation here at Ennis and farmers have been disappointed with that."

Sample lamb prices: