FIGURES released from SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) today show a decline in new car sales in May of 22.5 per cent.
There were 5,963 new cars sold in May, 1,735 fewer than in May 2012.
Alan Nolan, Director General of SIMI (pictured) said: “The May figures are continuing the trend of what has been a very poor year.
The year to date figure being 14.5 per cent down on the first five months of last year.
“It is clear that there has been even less spending in the domestic economy this year than in recent years, which were not good to begin with.
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He added:
“At this time of year the motor industry is usually beginning to ease down, as the second half of the year approaches, and traditionally sales begin to tail off until the New Year.
This year, with the new ‘132’ registration period beginning on July 1, there are now real benefits for consumers buying at this time of year and the industry is gearing up for some extra interest and activity in July.
“Certainly June should be a really good shopping month for consumers, with great offers and trade-in values as well as the potential for a new 132 plate.”