Mersey Docks Records Profit Increase

Mersey Docks & Harbour Co. reported a marginal rise in pre-tax profit on Thursday and a successful year in terms of growth and progress. Pre-tax profit before exceptionals rose to 52.3 million pounds from 52 million in the previous year, on a 21 percent turnover rise to 229.9 million pounds. The results were well in line with market expectations. The company underlined the fact that profits had increased despite an estimated three million pound impact from the temporary closure of a Dublin container terminal. Industrial action caused by the decision to re-organize and re-equip the terminal led to its temporary closure from September 15 last year and the dispute pulled down the shipping division's results. - (Reuters)