Sales of new cars up almost 6% on last year

144,933 new cars were sold in the first six months of year, up 5.84% on the same period in 2005.

"Following two months where the market was flat, it is pleasing to see an 8% increase in new car sales in June 2006" said Cyril McHugh, chief executive of Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), in announcing June sales figures.