The volume of retail sales fell by 1.1 per cent in November as demand for electrical goods and fuel decreased dramatically.

Sales of electrical goods were down 17.8 per cent in the month, while fuel sales were down 3.2 per cent.

Figures from the Central Statistics Office show that core retail sales have fallen in volume by 0.5 per cent in the year to the end of November 2012.

The CSO said that when motor trades were excluded, the volume of retail sales decreased by 1 per cent in November, when compared with October 2012.

Lobby group Retail Excellence Ireland said it was not surprised with the decrease in the volume and value of retail sales in November.

"The main factor contributing to this decrease was the scheduling of the budget in December last year. The kite flying for Budget 2013 did not help retail sales or consumer sentiment and caused many consumers to postpone their spend," Retail Excellence Ireland chief executive David Fitzsimons said.