Dolmen Butler Briscoe is recommending CRH and Smurfit as buys. CRH has reported a strong set of results which were ahead of market expectations with indications that it can continue to sustain strong growth. The brokers suggest CRH will benefit from the continuing strong economic growth and the National Development Plan in the Republic while conditions in the UK and Europe are improving for the group.

A recovery in earnings at Smurfit in 1999 is also expected to continue for some time. The brokers expect Smurfit management will be able to enhance shareholder value through a combination of acquisitions and divestiture of non-core assets and accordingly rates the shares as a buy.