Lack of meaningful and direct support for sheep farmers by the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue as well as sheep processing factories continues to attract criticism from the Dublin-based Irish Farmers’ Association.
IFA Sheep committee chairman Kevin Comiskey pointed out that the IFA communicated directly with the Minister and sheep processing factories earlier this year about the importance of direct supports for sheep farmers. They highlighted the fact that strong lamb prices are essential to maintain Irish production systems and ensure the orderly marketing of lambs throughout the year given the production costs that farmers are exposed to.
Comiskey said the Minister has yet to come forward with a targeted payment for sheep farmers to support the orderly feeding and finishing of lambs, which is certainly contributing to the increase in numbers of under-finished lambs presented to factories.
Meanwhile, last week quoted prices ranged from 630 cents/kg countrywide, except for Co. Kildare where 640 cents/kg was offered. In general, processors seem to be interested in supplies and are paying up to 650 cents/kg to ensure that they have enough lambs for the markets.
Lamb price update 25 August, 2022
Lamb €6.20/6.50/kg. Higher deals groups/larger lots. Ewes €3.40/3.80/kg.