Financials driving force behind gains

THE Irish market closed 24.77 points stronger at 5676.42.

The financials helped buoy the market into the blue with all the main heavyweights advancing in value. IL&P had the largest jump, up 35c to €13.45. AIB and Bank of Ireland sustained market confidence rising 10c & 13c respectively. Anglo Irish added to gains to end 5c up at €15.25.

Irish Drug maker Elan dropped 9c to €19.66. In construction CRH bumped up 11c to €18.57.