ESB sees profits go up €80m

ESB made a post-tax profit of €415m last year, a rise of €80m.

The energy suppy board says the boosted figures are the result of payroll savings of more than €50m and increased revenue.

ESB says it contributed more than €2bn to the economy in 2013 through dividends, jobs and taxes.

Chief Executive Pat O'Doherty says the figures reflect a "very solid performance" which will allow the group to compete against international players in the Irish market.