Goodbody Stockbrokers is advising investors to consider including smaller firms in their portfolios. The second-line sector put in a poor performance last year with only 10 out of 42 outperforming the ISEQ Index, while 24 saw their share price fall. Even though there is nothing to suggest there will be an immediate recovery in these shares, Goodbody says there are some fundamentally sound businesses which currently offer outstanding value.

Goodbody's buy list includes, Anglo Irish Bank, Athlone Extrusions, Barlo, Boxmore, Clondalkin, Fishers, Golden Vale, Grafton, Green Property, Heiton, Irish Continental Group, IFG, Iona, ITG, Jurys, Powerscreen, Ryan Hotels and United Drug.