ISEQ rises as Elan and banks surge

SHARES on the Irish market continued their upward march, led by Elan and the banking stocks. The ISEQ firmed 68.24 points to 7729.68 at the closing bell.

AIB closed in positive territory for the sixth consecutive day, 18c higher at €19.18. Bank of Ireland jumped 25c to €14.65. Anglo Irish and Irish Life and Permanent climbed 13c and 20c to €12.91 and €17.85 respectively.

Elan surged 25c to €12.20 on news the US Food and Drug Administration lifted the hold on clinical trials for Tysabri. Eircom dipped 6c after reporting Q3 results.