Long Iraq war fears hurt markets

THE ISEQ Index of shares fell back for the fifth day in six yesterday, closing down 49.17 points to 3928.

The prospect of a lengthy and expensive war in Iraq continues to drive markets, with European indices falling heavily.

Ryanair Holdings, shedding 4.03% to 6.19, lost ground along with their European carriers on the fear war will curtail travel. Other movers included Irish Life & Permanent and Anglo Irish Bank which slipped 2.56% and 2.39% to 9.50 and 6.54 respectively.