Banking boosts ISEQ

The ISEQ-index rallied this morning on foot of more energised trading in the banking sector.

AIB led the way as the most impressive performer with a 29c increase to €15.26. Not far behind Bank of Ireland shot up 26c at €9.88 while both IL&P and Anglo Irish recorded 9c increases each at €10.59 and €9.83 respectively.

Elsewhere, former state-owned airline Aer Lingus saw a 2c increase in its share price to stand at €2.12.

Aer Lingus is beginning flights on its controversial new Belfast-Heathrow route this morning.

The airline caused major outcry in the west of the country last year when it announced plans to scrap Shannon-Heathrow services in favour of the new route from the North.

The last Heathrow-bound flight left Shannon yesterday.