AGM Statement

W.H. Ireland Group PLC
18 April 2008


                              WH Ireland Group plc

                                 AGM Statement


At the Annual General Meeting of W H Ireland Group plc ('WH Ireland' or 'the
Group'), Sir David Trippier, Chairman, made the following statement:

'It is pleasing to be able to report to shareholders on another successful year
for the Group. Last year, we continued to invest in our business, adding two new
fund management teams and our IFA business in Bristol and increasing our
investment in our Australian business. We will continue to expand our three
primary business activities in parallel with the objective of achieving a
balanced, diversified business, built on the foundation of strong asset base.

'Shareholders will have seen our recent announcement detailing a significant
investment in our Group by a consortium of individuals who are committed to
assisting us to take our strategy forward. I am sure that the Group will derive
considerable benefit from their expertise within the financial services sector
and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome them as new shareholders.

'In February, in the Chief Executive's report to shareholders, it was stated
that 'Market conditions deteriorated during the second half of our year and we
are yet to see signs of a significant or sustained recovery. Current economic
forecasts suggest that the year will prove testing in many respects but our
corporate finance operation continues to be active.' This remains the case.

'Nonetheless, the Board remains confident in its strategy of continued
development of the Group's position within our chosen markets and will continue
to pursue opportunities for growth, both organic and through acquisitions, on
shareholders' behalf.

'I have been Chairman of W H Ireland for some 15 years during which time I have
seen enormous changes within the industry and growth within the Group. Turnover
has increased some 40 fold which is a considerable achievement and a positive
reflection on the commitment of all concerned from directors down.

'In conjunction with the Consortium transaction announced earlier this month, I
along with John Lawrence will be retiring from the Board in the near term. I
would like to take this opportunity to thank my board friends and colleagues
within the company and I wish them the very best for the future. '


For further information, please contact:-

Laurie Beevers        WH Ireland Group plc               0161 832 6644
Greg Cant             Rothschild                         0161 827 3800
Zoe Biddick           Biddicks                           020 7448 1000




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