This week's factory quotes for beef cattle have seen price offers remain firm despite concerns on the impact of the first confirmed case of bluetongue in the Republic of Ireland on the cattle trade.

The news came to light on Saturday, January 25, following confirmation of a case in a cattle herd in Co. Wexford.

Addressing the likely trade impacts of the confirmed bluetongue case, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon said the outbreak will have an impact on exports of cattle and sheep, "with additional costs and logistical issues required in order to comply with the rules set by the countries of destination".

"In respect of meat and dairy products, there are no implications for exports to the EU, UK and to most of our international markets," the minister said.

Factory quotes: Heifers and steers

This week, heifers are being quoted at €7.10/kg on the grid and steers (bullocks) are being quoted at €7.00/kg on the grid, generally speaking.

At the higher end of the scale, €7.15/kg and €7.20/kg on the grid are being tabled for suitable steers and heifers with 300-400kg carcass weights in the north-west of the country.

Some outlets are admitting that slightly above their official base price offer is available for choice lots of heifers and steers.

Breed bonuses are generally at 15c/kg and 20c/kg for Hereford and Angus cattle respectively, but up to 30c/kg is available at some outlets for in-spec Angus heifers and steers with carcass-weights from 300-380kg.

Cow price

Cow price is steady to positive this week, with more money being tabled in cases for cows of certain specifications.

'P' grade cows are being quoted at €6.40/kg this week, with €6.50-€6.60/kg on offer for 'O' grade cows.

'R' grade cows are being quoted at €6.70-€6.80/kg and 'U' grade cows are being quoted at up to €7.00/kg in cases.

Bulls

Under-24-month bulls are being quoted at €7.40/kg for 'U' grades and €7.30/kg for 'R' grades.

'O' grade bulls are being quoted at €7.10/kg, while 'P' grade bulls are being quoted at €7.00/kg.

Under-16-month bulls are being quoted at €7.00/kg on the grid.

In Northern Ireland this week, base quotes for 'U3' steers and heifers are ranging from £6.06-£6.14/kg. 'O+3' cow price quotes are ranging from £5.06-£5.10/kg.