Activity in the Irish service sector continued to grow strongly last month, according to the latest NCB Purchasing Managers' Services Index.
The index recorded 58.1, slightly slower than July's 59.4 but still well above the 50 no-change mark. The sector has been growing since June last year.
NCB economist Eunan King said overall confidence remained high and the figures painted a picture of 'solid activity'.
The new business posted 58.1, while the confidence index came in at 73.6. Employment levels grew for the 12th month in a row, with the pace of growth increasing to 54.1.
But inflationary pressures intensified in August, mainly because of higher oil prices. At the same time, prices charged by firms fell for the 17th month in a row.
