September 10, 2024

Republic of Ireland sees rise in beef slaughter figures as supplies increase

The total slaughter count of 34,881 marks an increase of over 1,800 head compared to the previous week, continuing a trend of rising supplies since early August.

Cattle supplies also remained strong, increasing by more than 400 head from the previous week. Of these cows, 63% graded a P, with 10.2% grading a P1.

Compared to this time last year, when cattle supplies were in decline, this year's supply has seen a notable increase. Various factors, including weather conditions, are often responsible for influencing supply trends during this period. Wet conditions typically lead to larger numbers of factory-fit cattle coming to market, while dry, sunny weather often causes a dip in supply.

Despite these trends, cattle performance at grass has generally been weaker this year, with reduced weight gains reported. March 2022-born cattle are now approaching 30 months of age, and many farmers are eager to move these cattle before they surpass this age threshold, despite the lower weight gains. However, farmers who have supplemented grass feeding with concentrates have not experienced the same reduction in weight gain.

Larger numbers of cattle and heifers being slaughtered, coupled with a decrease in steers and young bulls, have been noticeable trends over recent weeks. After five consecutive weeks where weekly beef kills were lower than during the same period last year, the most recent figures show a slight increase compared to the corresponding week in 2022.

Overall, the cumulative beef slaughter for the year remains more than 14,000 head above last year's figures. Meanwhile, the cumulative cattle slaughter is over 27,200 head above last year.

-      Agriland