The Board of Anglo Irish Bank Corporation plc are pleased to announce today (15 July 2004) the appointment of Sean FitzPatrick to succeed Peter Murray as Non-executive Chairman in January 2005. Peter Murray is retiring from his position as a Non-executive Director having joined the Board in 1993.

Sean FitzPatrick joined the Bank in 1980 and was appointed Chief Executive in 1986. Under Mr. FitzPatrick�s leadership, the Bank has experienced strong and sustained commercial and financial performance. His appointment as Non-executive Chairman was recommended by the Group�s Nomination and Succession Committee. This followed a thorough assessment of the specific requirements of the role and consultation with several of the Group�s major shareholders and the Irish Association of Investment Managers. The Committee determined that Mr. FitzPatrick was best suited to the role of Non-executive Chairman because of his substantial banking knowledge and experience, his understanding of the market and for his appreciation of the culture and strategy which are fundamental to the success of the Bank. The Board unanimously accepted the Committee�s recommendation.

Commenting on the appointment Peter Murray said, �We are delighted with Sean�s appointment as Chairman. The Board sought to select the very best candidate for the position and we are confident that Sean is ideally suited to the role.�

Regarding the selection of a successor to Sean FitzPatrick as Chief Executive, Peter Murray added, �the process to select and appoint a Chief Executive Designate, which is being managed by the Group�s Nomination and Succession Committee, is well under way. As previously indicated we will make an announcement of the Board�s decision prior to the end of the current financial year.�

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For further information please contact

Peter Murray (Chairman) /
Willie McAteer (Finance Director)
Anglo Irish Bank Corporation plc
Tel: +353 1 6162003

15 July 2004