Independent confident of profit rise

Independent News and Media is expecting an improved performance this year after a tough 2000, group executive chairman Sir Anthony O' Reilly told shareholders at today's annual general meeting in Dublin.

Sir Anthony O Reilly

Speaking at the group's annual meeting today executive chairman Sir Anthony said: "With regard to outlook for the remainder of 2001, the Irish market remains extremely buoyant."

"South Africa and New Zealand are showing improvement," he added.

Australia and Britain, despite tough local market conditions are performing well, Sir Anthony told the meeting.