Marked increase in car sales

New car sales were up over 18% in the first nine months of the year.

Figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry show it represents a boost to the exchequer of €1.25 billion.

Car sales until the end of September were strongest in Roscommon – while the lowest was Leitrim.

The report also found motor insurance costs have increased by 68.7% since September 2013.