A survey which measures how consumers feel about the economy fell back slightly in July, after hitting its highest level since 2007 in June.
The consumer sentiment index, compiled by KBC Bank and the ESRI, recorded 66.2, down from June's 67.9. The ESRI's David Duffy said the figure was still well above the 49.5 recorded in July last year.
KBC economist Austin Hughes said the fall was not surprising after the stronger trend of recent months, as conditions remained difficult for most people. 'While the Irish economy may not be as weak as during 2009, there is little to spark a clear feelgood factor,' he added.
The part of the index which measures how people feel about their current financial situation slipped to 85.7 from 88.4 in June. The expectations index also fell from 54.1 to 53.1, as consumers became more negative about the economy and the jobs market over the next 12 months.
