Sales, jobs up as Motor Industry continues to recover

Figures released today by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) show that new car registrations were up 25 percent (15,854) last month compared to (12,711) for February 2014, and year to date new cars are up 29 percent on last year.

Recently released figures from the CSO confirm that employment in the Industry grew by 4,500 last year, on the back of the increase in vehicle sales, and now totals close to 42,000 employees.

The LCV statistics show a 61 percent increase, on top of last year's 51 percent growth, confirming that the overall economy is recovering strongly. Unfortunately, the HGV figures show a decline of 29 percent after last year's growth. SIMI say it is clear that the poor registrations in HGVs result from the New Vehicle Approval system that has been delaying registrations and causing serious problems for the Industry and its customers.

Indications from a survey of members confirm that registrations in February would have been significantly ahead of last year if the State's registration process was actually operating efficiently. SIMI say they are aware that the system is being worked on but claim the current situation is not acceptable and needs to be resolved as it is now at the stage where it is potentially damaging business.