Byrne welcomes retail research findings

Thomas Byrne Fianna Fáil TD for Meath East has today welcomed the news that the number of shoppers heading North is declining, with more people now looking for bargains closer to home.

A survey of national footfall by research company Experian, has found that in February and March, the number of shopping centre visitors increased in the Republic for the first time in two years, but dropped in Northern Ireland.

Responding to the findings Deputy Byrne said: “It would appear that the cuts in VAT and excise duties, introduced in Budget 2010, are beginning to have an impact. Shoppers are realising that they do not need to cross the border into the North to be guaranteed value for money. There are plenty of good bargains to be had closer to home.”

“Today’s findings come only a fortnight after the CSO reported that retail sales were up for the first time in two years. While there is much room for improvement in the retail industry, it is clear that consumer sentiment is nonetheless on the up," concluded Deputy Byrne.