Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cattle Prices.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries whether farmers may soon expect a rise in the present low prices obtainable for young cattle.
Comment on this
Any forecast of the prices of young cattle must be related to the price of adult cattle which in turn depends on prices on the export market. While forecasting is difficult and, perhaps, dangerous, indications are that the prices for adult cattle will rise soon.
Comment on this
The Minister is aware that the price of adult cattle is somewhat higher than it was this time last year; the price of very young cattle is from £5 to £10 cheaper than it was this time last year. Furthermore, I raised this question when we were putting a tariff on calves last summer and I was informed there was going to be a very good trade for calves. It is very hard to sell them at the moment.