Mideast crisis hits index

THE ISEQ index started the week as it ended last week, down as a result of high oil prices and uncertainty in the Middle East. The Dublin exchange closed 100.22 points down at 7,198.19.

The financial sector contributed heavily to the fall with AIB slipping 28c to €17.35 and Bank of Ireland shedding 12c to €13.23. Anglo Irish and Irish Life & Permanent both weakened by 30c to €11 and €17.05.

Construction giant CRH continued to lose ground, 50c lighter at €24.80. Grafton also suffered on the day, dipping 30c to €9.80 and Kingspan remained unchanged at €13.