The volume of retail sales recorded in Ireland in June fell by 3.9 percent, compared to May - but is up by 5.4 percent on 12 months ago, according to new figures published by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

Excluding motor sales which were buoyed by the release of 152 plates in May, sale volumes increased by 0.4 percent - and 5.8 percent when compared to may 2014 - but the value of sales only went up by 3.1 percent in the year.

'Books, Newspapers and Stationery' was the category which enjoyed the strongest bounce - up by 5.6 percent.

Hardware, Paints and Glass volumes increased by 3.9 percent and Food, Beverages and Tobacco sales were 2.1 percent higher.

Furniture and Lighting had the largest annual decrease, falling by 18.2 percent.

ISME, the Irish Small & Medium Enterprises Association reacted to the figures by criticising the Government, arguing that announcements like a minimum wage increase, and new paternity and parental leave rules have hampered growth in the retail sector.

Commenting, Mark Fielding, ISME CEO, said, "Margins are still under pressure as a result of lack of consumer confidence leading to a drop in demand and retailers using sales to generate volume. The Government's promises on town centre revitalisation, business cost reduction and online trading campaign have been forgotten."