FALLING cattle and suckler numbers, market demands and general optimism about international markets are all positive indicators about the beef trade for the foreseeable future, according to Galway IFA Livestock Representative, Micheál Haverty.

He told the Farming Tribune that both nationally and internationally all of the indicators for the cattle trade showed no sign of any let-up in the prices being paid.

“While no one has any crystal ball on this to predict what the future holds – and there may be plateaus here and there – all the indications from the domestic, UK, European, US and other international markets show a very strong demand for cattle.

“There are a lot of factors at play here including a lot less suckler cows in the country as older farmers get out of the business or else make the move to drystock while there is an issue too as regards the smaller number of young people getting into farming,” said Micheál Haverty.

He added that all the indications from Bord Bia on beef exports from Ireland to other countries remained ‘very strong’ for both this year and for 2026.

“The lift in cattle prices has obviously very good news for beef farmers across and even for those who are buying in stock this autumn, they will have benefited from the prices they got for cattle over recent months.

“A lot of farmers too are opting for the marts’ sales rings where is intense competition for all types of cattle, and especially so if matching animals are sold in twos or threes,” said Micheál Haverty.

He added that as a very rough guide to prices increases, as compared to this time last year, there had been around a 50% uplift in what was being paid.

“Decent enough quality Friesian X calves, five or six weeks old which made which were making €260/€270 last year, are now making €440/€450.

“Continental weanlings of 300kgs to 350kgs which were selling for €1,300/€1,400 last year are now making €1,800 to €2,000 while there is a huge demand for well-fleshed cull cows – so the lift has been across the board,” said Michael Haverty.

He added that speaking to sheep farmers, it had also been a far better selling season for lambs, hoggets and ewes with prices roughly up by €100 per head.

“The bottom line in all of this is that if farmers are doing well then the benefits spread to the local community including the shops, merchants and contractors.

“One thing about farmers is that if they have the bit of extra cash they’re not shy about spending it – they might buy a small piece of land; upgrade their tractor or other machinery; improve farm buildings; or do a bit of reseeding,” said Micheál Haverty.

Pictured: Galway IFA Livestock Representative, Micheál Haverty