Dublin Report:Share prices in Dublin were in slightly better shape yesterday following a firmer tone in the US and across Europe.

Volumes remained relatively light and there was little in the way of corporate news to provide direction for the Dublin market.

A rally in the US has helped to bolster the markets but dealers say sentiment remains nervous as the rise is not supported by substantial volumes.

Most trading activity was focused on the financials. AIB, while in demand throughout the session, ended unchanged at €20.30 by close of business.

Bank of Ireland went five cent higher to €14.80, while Anglo Irish Bank gained 12 cent to end at €12.

Irish Life & Permanent was also in positive territory, adding three cent to €19.25.

CRH benefited from takeover activity in its sector in Britain. And, while that market accounts for just 4 per cent of the group's profits, the takeover was sufficient to renew investor interest in the stock.

It ended the session at €25.59, up 17 cent.

It was Eircom's last day to be traded on the Irish market following its takeover by Babcock & Brown. Dealers said there was some trading and the company ended at €2.22, three cent ahead.

In terms of corporate news, Independent News & Media confirmed that it is to take up an option to increase its stake in the Indian newspaper publisher, Jagran Prakashan by up to 3 per cent.

It will apply to the regular to buy the increased stake, raising its interest in the publisher to up to 23 per cent.

Independent News & Media shares closed at €2.34 in Dublin, up three cent.

Other shares traded included Ryanair, which gained nine cent to €7.24. Kingspan continued it good run gaining seven cent to €13.92.

IAWS continued to be in demand but failed to make any progress, and ended unchanged at €15.10.Settlement Day: August 22nd