New figures show that the service sector of the economy grew at its slowest pace in more than four years in November.
The NCB Services PMI recorded 52.8, above the 50 mark which indicates growth but well below October's 56.5.
The report said anecdotal evidence suggested that weakness in the construction sector had affected activity.
New business grew at a slower rate than in October, while new export business recorded its slowest increase in more than four years.
Employment increased only slightly, with the index at 51.1, while the costs index hit 65.8, the highest level in eight months, affected by higher oil prices and salaries.
