ISEQ makes up ground after losses

THE Irish market regained some of yesterday’s losses, ending the week on a positive footing for the third day in five.

The ISEQ finished 9.36 points higher at 5336.92. Allied Irish Bank was the focus of much attention ahead of next Tuesday’s results. IFSRA’s report on the bank had no negative impact on their share price as they climbed 19 cents to €12.39. Rival Bank of Ireland was steady at €10.68 while Anglo-Irish and Irish Life both posted gains.

Greencore added 2 cents to €2.85 following a generally positive AGM statement from peer Northern Foods.

Waterford Wedgwood fell to 15 cents after US company Brown-Forman said it was “cautious” on the outlook for 2004. Elsewhere, drug group Elan regained 29 cents following yesterday’s sharp sell-off. Ryanair was unchanged at €4.70 as it escalates its row with UK airports and BAA, while in construction CRH finished up 6 cents at €18.05.