Sentiment about the general economic outlook and outlook for jobs both weakened compared to December

Concerns about the economic outlook were offset by easing worries around household finances

The survey's authors said the reading did not suggest a major change in Irish consumer thinking

36% believe a change in Government would be a good thing for the property market, while 5% believe the Government is currently doing enough to help

The Credit Union Consumer Sentiment index rose to 61.9 from 60.4 in October

An increase in interest rates and higher fuel costs are the likely reasons behind the drop in consumer confidence.