ISEQ loses ground

THE ISEQ lost ground slightly yesterday as profit-taking hit construction stocks. The market was down 4.93 to 8,899.50.

AIB lost 15c to €21.85, while, Bank of Ireland was level at €16. Anglo-Irish and Irish Life and Permanent saw strong gains, adding 25c and 20c.

Exploration stock Dragon Oil added an impressive 21c to €2.65. Ryanair increased by 3c to €9.77 despite Wednesday’s announcement that chief executive Michael O’Leary sold 2.9 million shares. Aer Lingus rose 2c after ESOT voted against Ryanair’s takeover bid.