TRACTOR SALES in the Republic, seen as a barometer of the health of the industry, fell again last year. In December only 11 units were sold, according to figures from the Farm Tractor and Machinery Trade Association.
Its figures showed a steady decline in the number of tractors being purchased in recent years. They showed sales of 4531 in 2008, a dramatic fall to 1,748 in 2009, and just 1,315 units registered last year, the lowest level recorded in 20 years. Traders are predicting a better year in 2011 because of improving farm prices and new confidence in the industry.