Shares down for first day in eight

DESPITE hitting its highest level in three years, the ISEQ ended the day in negative territory. Shares in Dublin eased 17.24 closing down for the first day in eight at 5686.73.

The financials were mixed with strength coming from rivals AIB and Bank of Ireland who climbed 9c and 4c. Anglo-Irish was hit for 33c. Irish Life & Permanent was 15c weaker at €12.75.

Elan succumbed to profit taking and was a main laggard on the market, dropping 60c to €19.22. Elsewhere, Kerry Group built on yesterday’s surge, climbing 11c to €17.49. CRH slipped 1c. Ryanair firmed 1c to €4.23 while Eircom advanced to €1.50.