All the indicators are starting to look positive again for the beef trade, with signals that cattle could soon be moving to Libya and that factories are going to have to compete more aggressively to get the better quality stock.

That was this week's assessment by Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association beef chairman, Edmond Phelan.

"While some farmers were caught in a difficult situation with weather-related woes in the past few weeks, farmers now need to realise that the ball has swung back into their court and that prices could very well harden over the next few weeks," said Mr Phelan. "Cattle are scarcer than ever and with some uplift in the weather, there is no need to take bad prices."

"There are also positive moves afoot by exporters to get cattle moving to Libya, although price will be an issue. Nonetheless, exports to Libya would have a very positive impact on putting a floor under prices for Friesians over the coming months. I would urge Minister Coveney to be proactive in ensuring that exporters receive every assistance in getting this trade open."