ICON plc AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK, As Depositary AND HOLDERS OF AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS Deposit Agreement Dated as of May 20, 1998 TABLE OF CONTENT
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ICON plc
AND
THE BANK OF NEW YORK,
As Depositary
AND
HOLDERS OF AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS
Dated as of May 20, 1998
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TABLE OF CONTENT
ARTICLE 1.
DEFINITIONS.
SECTION 1.01.
American Depositary Shares.
SECTION 1.02.
Commission.
SECTION 1.03.
Company.
SECTION 1.04.
Custodian.
SECTION 1.05.
SECTION 1.06.
Depositary.
SECTION 1.07.
Deposited Securities.
SECTION 1.08.
Dollars; Pounds.
SECTION 1.09.
Holder.
SECTION 1.10.
Receipts.
SECTION 1.11.
Registrar.
SECTION 1.12.
Securities Act of 1933.
SECTION 1.13.
Shares.
ARTICLE 2.
FORM OF RECEIPTS, DEPOSIT OF SHARES, EXECUTION AND DELIVERY, TRANSFER AND SURRENDER OF RECEIPTS
SECTION 2.01.
Form and Transferability of Receipts.
SECTION 2.02.
Deposit of Shares.
SECTION 2.03.
Execution and Delivery of Receipts
SECTION 2.04.
Transfer of Receipts; Combination and Split-Up of Receipts.
SECTION 2.05.
Surrender of Receipts and Withdrawal of Shares.
SECTION 2.06.
Limitations on Execution and Delivery, Transfer and Surrender of Receipts.
SECTION 2.07.
Lost Receipts, etc.
SECTION 2.08.
Cancellation and Destruction of Surrendered Receipts.
SECTION 2.09.
Pre-Release of Receipts.
ARTICLE 3.
CERTAIN OBLIGATIONS OF HOLDERS OF RECEIPTS.
SECTION 3.01.
Filing Proofs, Certificates and Other Information.
SECTION 3.02.
Liability of Holder for Taxes.
SECTION 3.03.
Warranties on Deposit of Shares.
ARTICLE 4.
THE DEPOSITED SECURITIES.
SECTION 4.01.
Cash Distributions.
SECTION 4.02.
Distributions Other Than Cash, Shares or Rights.
SECTION 4.03.
Distributions in Shares.
SECTION 4.04.
Rights.
SECTION 4.05.
Conversion of Foreign Currency.
SECTION 4.06.
Fixing of Record Date.
SECTION 4.07.
Voting of Deposited Securities.
SECTION 4.08.
Changes Affecting Deposited Securities.
SECTION 4.09.
Reports.
SECTION 4.10.
Lists of Holders.
SECTION 4.11.
Withholding.
ARTICLE 5.
THE DEPOSITARY, THE CUSTODIAN AND THE COMPANY.
SECTION 5.01.
Maintenance of Office and Transfer Books by the Depositary.
SECTION 5.02.
Prevention or Delay in Performance by the Depositary or the Company.
SECTION 5.03.
Obligation of the Depositary, the Custodian and the Company.
SECTION 5.04.
Resignation and Removal of the Depositary; Appointment of Successor Depositary.
SECTION 5.05.
The Custodian.
SECTION 5.06.
Notices and Reports.
SECTION 5.07.
Issuance of Additional Shares, etc.
SECTION 5.08.
Indemnification.
SECTION 5.09.
Charges of Depositary.
ARTICLE 6.
AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION.
SECTION 6.01.
Amendment.
SECTION 6.02.
Termination.
ARTICLE 7.
MISCELLANEOUS.
SECTION 7.01.
Counterparts.
SECTION 7.02.
No Third Party Beneficiaries.
SECTION 7.03.
Severability.
SECTION 7.04.
Holders Parties; Binding Effect.
SECTION 7.05.
Notices.
SECTION 7.06.
Governing Law.
SECTION 7.07.
Compliance with U.S. Securities Laws.
DEPOSIT AGREEMENT dated as of May 20, 1998 among ICON plc, incorporated under the laws of the Republic of Ireland (herein called the Company), THE BANK OF NEW YORK, a New York banking corporation (herein called the Depositary), and Holders from time to time of American Depositary Receipts issued hereunder.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Company desires to provide, as hereinafter set forth in this Deposit Agreement, for the deposit of Shares (herein called Shares), of the Company from time to time with the Depositary or with the principal Dublin office of The Bank of Ireland (herein called the Custodian), as agent of the Depositary for the purposes set forth in this Deposit Agreement, for the creation of American Depositary Shares representing the Shares so deposited and for the execution and delivery of American Depositary Receipts evidencing the American Depositary Shares; and
WHEREAS, the American Depositary Receipts are to be substantially in the form of Exhibit A annexed hereto, with appropriate insertions, modifications and omissions, as hereinafter provided in this Deposit Agreement;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises, it is agreed by and between the parties hereto as follows:
ARTICLE 1.
DEFINITIONS.
The following definitions shall for all purposes, unless otherwise clearly indicated, apply to the respective terms used in this Deposit Agreement:
SECTION 1.01.
American Depositary Shares.
The term "American Depositary Shares" shall mean the securities evidenced by the Receipts issued hereunder and representing the interests in the Deposited Securities. Β Each American Depositary Share shall represent one Share (or evidence of rights to receive such Shares), until there shall occur a distribution upon Deposited Securities covered by Section 4.03 or a change in Deposited Securities covered by Section 4.08 with respect to which additional Receipts are not executed and delivered, and thereafter American Depositary Shares shall represent the amount of Shares or Deposited Securities specified in such Sections.
SECTION 1.02.
Commission.
The term "Commission" shall mean the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any successor governmental agency in the United States.
SECTION 1.03.
Company.
The term "Company" shall mean ICON plc, incorporated under the laws of the Republic of Ireland, and its successors.
SECTION 1.04.
Custodian.
The term "Custodian" shall mean the principal Dublin office of The Bank of Ireland, as agent of the Depositary for the purposes of this Deposit Agreement, and any other firm or corporation which may hereafter be appointed by the Depositary, pursuant to the terms of Section 5.05, as substitute custodian hereunder.
SECTION 1.05.
The term "Deposit Agreement" shall mean this Deposit Agreement, as the same may be amended from time to time in accordance with the provisions hereof.
SECTION 1.06.
Depositary.
The term "Depositary" shall mean The Bank of New York, a New York banking corporation, and its successors as depositary hereunder. Β The term "Corporate Trust Office" when used with respect to the Depositary shall mean the office of the Depositary which at the date of this Agreement is 000 Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx, Xxx Xxxx, Xxx Xxxx 00000.
SECTION 1.07.
Deposited Securities.
The term "Deposited Securities" as of any time shall mean Shares at such time deposited under this Deposit Agreement and any and all other securities, property and cash received by the Depositary or the Custodian in respect thereof and at such time held hereunder, subject as to cash to the provisions of Section 4.05.
SECTION 1.08.
Dollars; Pounds.
The term "dollars" shall mean United States dollars. Β The term "pounds" shall mean Irish pounds.
SECTION 1.09.
Holder.
The term "Holder" shall mean the person in whose name a Receipt is registered on the books of the Depositary maintained for such purpose.
SECTION 1.10.
Receipts.
The term "Receipts" shall mean the American Depositary Receipts issued hereunder evidencing American Depositary Shares.
SECTION 1.11.
Registrar.
The term "Registrar" shall mean any bank or trust company having an office in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, which shall be appointed to register Receipts and transfers of Receipts as herein provided.
SECTION 1.12.
Securities Act of 1933.
The term "Securities Act of 1933" shall mean the United States Securities Act of 1933, as from time to time amended.
SECTION 1.13.
Shares.
The term "Shares" shall mean ordinary shares in registered form of the Company, nominal value IR5p per share, heretofore validly issued and outstanding and fully paid, nonassessable and free of any pre-emptive rights of the holders of outstanding Shares or hereafter validly issued and outstanding and fully paid, nonassessable and free of any pre-emptive rights of the holders of outstanding Shares or interim certificates representing such Shares.
ARTICLE 2.
FORM OF RECEIPTS, DEPOSIT OF SHARES, EXECUTION AND DELIVERY, TRANSFER AND SURRENDER OF RECEIPTS
SECTION 2.01.
Form and Transferability of Receipts.
Definitive Receipts shall be engraved or printed or lithographed on steel-engraved borders and shall be substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit A annexed to this Deposit Agreement, with appropriate insertions, modifications and omissions, as hereinafter provided. Β No Receipt shall be entitled to any benefits under this Deposit Agreement or be valid or obligatory for any purpose, unless such Receipt shall have been executed by the Depositary by the manual or facsimile signature of a duly authorized officer and, if a Registrar shall have been appointed, countersigned by the manual or facsimile signature of a duly authorized officer of the Registrar. Β The Depositary shall maintain books on which each Receipt so executed and delivered as hereinafter provided and the transfer of each such Receipt shall be registered. Β Receipts bearing the manual or facsimile signature of a duly authorized officer of the Depositary who was at any time a proper officer of the Depositary shall bind the Depositary, notwithstanding that such officer has ceased to hold such office prior to signature of the Registrar and delivery of such Receipts or did not hold such office at the date of such Receipts.
The Receipts may be endorsed with or have incorporated in the text thereof such legends or recitals or changes not inconsistent with the provisions of this Deposit Agreement as may be required by the Depositary or required to comply with any applicable law or regulations thereunder or with the rules and regulations of any securities exchange upon which Receipts may be listed or to conform with any usage with respect thereto, or to indicate any special limitations or restrictions to which any particular Receipts are subject by reason of the date of issuance of the underlying Deposited Securities or otherwise.
Title to a Receipt (and to the American Depositary Shares evidenced thereby), when properly endorsed or accompanied by proper instruments of transfer, shall be transferable by delivery with the same effect as in the case of a negotiable instrument; provided, however, that the Depositary, notwithstanding any notice to the contrary, may treat the Holder thereof as the absolute owner thereof for the purpose of determining the person entitled to distribution of dividends or other distributions or to any notice provided for in this Deposit Agreement, and for all other purposes.
SECTION 2.02.
Deposit of Shares.
Subject to the terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, Shares or evidence of rights to receive Shares may be deposited by delivery thereof to the Custodian accompanied by any appropriate instrument or instruments of transfer, or endorsement, in form satisfactory to the Custodian, together with all such certifications as may be required by the Depositary or the Custodian in accordance with the provisions of this Deposit Agreement, and together with a written order directing the Depositary to execute and deliver to, or upon the written order of, the person or persons stated in such order, a Receipt or Receipts for the number of American Depositary Shares representing such deposit. Β No Shares shall be accepted for deposit unless accompanied by evidence satisfactory to the Depositary that any necessary approval has been granted by the governmental authority or body in the Republic of Ireland, if any, which is then performing the function of the regulation of currency exchange. Β If required by the Depositary, Shares presented for deposit at any time, whether or not the transfer books of the Company are closed, shall also be accompanied by an agreement or assignment, or other instrument satisfactory to the Depositary, which will provide for the prompt transfer to the Custodian of any dividend, or right to subscribe for additional Shares or to receive other property which any person in whose name the Shares is or has been recorded may thereafter receive upon or in respect of such deposited Shares, or in lieu thereof, such agreement of indemnity or other agreement as shall be satisfactory to the Depositary.
At the request and risk and expense of any holder of Shares, and for the account of such holder, the Depositary may receive certificates for Shares to be deposited, together with the other instruments herein specified, for the purpose of forwarding such Share certificates to the Custodian for deposit hereunder.
Upon each delivery to the Custodian of a certificate or certificates for Shares to be deposited hereunder, together with the other documents above specified, the Custodian shall, as soon as transfer and recordation can be accomplished, present such certificate or certificates to the Company for transfer and recordation of the Shares being deposited in the name of the Depositary or its nominee, or the Custodian or its nominee.
Deposited Shares shall be held by the Depositary or by the Custodian for the account and to the order of the Depositary, or at such other place or places as the Depositary shall determine.
SECTION 2.03.
Execution and Delivery of Receipts
Upon receipt by the Custodian of any deposit pursuant to Section 2.02 hereunder (and in addition, if the transfer books of the Company are open, a proper acknowledgment or other evidence from the Company satisfactory to the Depositary that any deposited Shares have been recorded upon the Company's books in the name of the Depositary or its nominee or the Custodian or its nominee), together with the other documents required as above specified, the Custodian shall notify the Depositary of such deposit and the person or persons to whom or upon whose written order a Receipt or Receipts are deliverable in respect thereof and the number of American Depositary Shares to be represented thereby. Β Such notification shall be made by letter or, at the request and risk and expense of the person making the deposit, by cable, telex or facsimile transmission. Β Upon receiving such notice from the Custodian, the Depositary, subject to the terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, shall execute and deliver at its Corporate Trust Office, to or upon the order of the person or persons named in the notice delivered to the Depositary, a Receipt or Receipts, registered in the name or names and representing any authorized number of American Depositary Shares requested by such person or persons, but only upon payment to the Depositary of the fee of the Depositary for the execution and delivery of such Receipt or Receipts, and of all taxes and governmental charges and fees payable in connection with such deposit and the transfer of the deposited Shares.
SECTION 2.04.
Transfer of Receipts; Combination and Split-Up of Receipts.
The Depositary, subject to the terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, shall register transfers on its transfer books from time to time of Receipts, upon any surrender of a Receipt, by the Holder in person or by duly authorized attorney, properly endorsed or accompanied by proper instruments of transfer, and duly stamped as may be required by the laws of the State of New York and of the United States of America. Β Thereupon, the Depositary shall execute a new Receipt or Receipts and deliver the same to or upon the order of the person entitled thereto.
The Depositary, subject to the terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, shall upon surrender of a Receipt or Receipts for the purpose of effecting a split-up or combination of such Receipt or Receipts, execute and deliver a new Receipt or Receipts for any authorized number of American Depositary Shares requested, representing the same aggregate number of American Depositary Shares as the Receipt or Receipts surrendered.
The Depositary may appoint one or more co-transfer agents for the purpose of effecting transfers, combinations and split ups or Receipts at designated transfer offices on behalf of the Depositary. Β In carrying out its functions, a co-transfer agent may require evidence of authority and compliance with applicable laws and other requirements by Owners or persons entitled to Receipts and will be entitled to protection and indemnity to the same extent as the depositary.
SECTION 2.05.
Surrender of Receipts and Withdrawal of Shares.
Upon surrender at the Corporate Trust Office of the Depositary of a Receipt evidencing American Depositary Shares for the purpose of withdrawal of the Deposited Securities represented thereby, and upon payment of the fee of the Depositary for the cancellation of Receipts as provided in Section 5.09 and payment of all taxes and governmental charges payable in connection with such surrender and withdrawal of the Deposited Securities, and subject to the terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, the Holder of such Receipt shall be entitled to delivery, to him or upon his order, of the amount of Deposited Securities at the time represented by such Receipt.
Delivery of such Deposited Securities may be made by the delivery of certificates to such Holder or as ordered by him. Β Such delivery shall be made, as hereinafter provided, as promptly as practicable.
A Receipt surrendered for such purposes may be required by the Depositary to be properly endorsed in blank or accompanied by proper instruments of transfer in blank, and the Holder thereof shall execute and deliver to the Depositary a written order directing the Depositary to cause the Deposited Securities being withdrawn to be delivered to or upon the written order of the person or persons designated in such order. Β Thereupon the Depositary shall direct the Custodian to deliver at the Dublin office of the Custodian, subject to Sections 2.06, 3.01 and 3.02, and to the other terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, to or upon the written order of the person or persons designated in the order delivered to the Depositary as above provided, the amount of Deposited Securities represented by such Receipt, except that the Depositary may take delivery to such person or persons at the Corporate Trust Office of the Depositary of any dividends or distributions with respect to the Deposited Securities represented by such Receipt, or of any proceeds of sale of any dividends, distributions or rights, which may at the time be held by the Depositary.
At the request and risk and expense of any Holder so surrendering a Receipt, and for the account of such Holder, the Depositary shall direct the Custodian to forward as promptly as practicable a certificate or certificates and other proper documents of title for the Deposited Securities represented by such Receipt to the Depositary for deliver at the Corporate Trust Office of the Depositary. Β Such direction shall be given by letter or, at the request and risk and expense of such Holder, by cable, telex or facsimile transmission.
SECTION 2.06.
Limitations on Execution and Delivery, Transfer and Surrender of Receipts.
As a condition precedent to the execution and delivery, registration of transfer, split-up, combination or surrender of any Receipt or withdrawal of any Deposited Securities, the Depositary or the Custodian may require payment from the presentor of the Receipt or the depositor of Shares of a sum sufficient to reimburse it for any tax or other governmental charge and any stock transfer or registration fee with respect thereto (including any such tax or charge and fee with respect to Shares being deposited or withdrawn) and payment of any applicable fees as herein provided, may require the production of proof satisfactory to it as to the identity and genuineness of any signature and may also require compliance with such regulations, if any, as the Depositary may establish consistent with the provisions of this Deposit Agreement, including, without limitation, this Section 2.06. Β The surrender of outstanding Receipts and withdrawal of Deposited Securities may not be suspended subject only to (i) temporary delays caused by closing the transfer books of the Depositary or the Company or the deposit of Shares in connection with voting at a shareholders' meeting, or the payment of dividends, Β (ii) the payment of fees, taxes and similar charges and Β (iii) compliance with any U.S. or foreign laws or governmental regulations relating to the Receipts or to the withdrawal of the Deposited Securities.
The delivery of Receipts against deposits of Shares generally or against deposits of particular Shares may be suspended, or the delivery of Receipts against the deposit of particular Shares may be withheld, or the registration of transfer of Receipts in particular instances may be refused, or the transfer or surrender of outstanding Receipts generally may be suspended, during any period when the transfer books of the Depositary are closed, or if any such action is deemed necessary or advisable by the Depositary or the Company at any time or from time to time because of any requirement of law or of any government or governmental authority, body or commission, or under any provision of this Deposit Agreement, subject to the provisions of the preceding paragraph and Section 7.07 hereof. Β Without limitation of the foregoing, the Depositary shall not knowingly accept for deposit under this Deposit Agreement any Shares required to be registered under the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, unless a registration statement has been declared effective by the Commission as to such Shares.
SECTION 2.07.
Lost Receipts, etc.
In case any Receipt shall be mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen, the Depositary shall execute and deliver a new Receipt of like tenor, in exchange and substitution for such mutilated Receipt upon cancellation thereof, or in lieu of and in substitution for such destroyed or lost or stolen Receipt, upon the Holder thereof (i) filing with the Depositary (a) a request for such exchange and delivery before the Depositary has notice that the Receipt has been acquired by a bona fide purchaser and (b) a sufficient indemnity bond and (ii) satisfying any other reasonable requirements imposed by the Depositary.
SECTION 2.08.
Cancellation and Destruction of Surrendered Receipts.
All Receipts surrendered to the Depositary shall be cancelled by the Depositary. Β The Depositary is authorized to destroy Receipts so cancelled.
SECTION 2.09.
Pre-Release of Receipts.
The Depositary may issue Receipts against the delivery by the Company (or any agent of the Company recording Shares ownership) of rights to receive Shares from the Company (or any such agent). Β No such issue of Receipts will be deemed a "Pre-Release" that is subject to the restrictions of the following paragraph.
Unless requested in writing by the Company to cease doing so, the Depositary may, notwithstanding Section 2.03 hereof, execute and deliver Receipts prior to the receipt of Shares pursuant to Section 2.02 ("Pre-Release"). Β The Depositary may, pursuant to Section 2.05, deliver Shares upon the receipt and cancellation of Receipts which have been Pre-Released, whether or not such cancellation is prior to the termination of such Pre-Release or the Depositary knows that such Receipt has been Pre-Released. Β The Depositary may receive Receipts in lieu of Shares in satisfaction of a Pre-Release. Β Each Pre-Release will be (a) preceded or accompanied by a written representation from the person to whom Receipts are to be delivered that such person, or its customer, owns the Shares or Receipts to be remitted, as the case may be, (b) at all times fully collateralized with cash or such other collateral as the Depositary deems appropriate, (c) terminable by the Depositary on not more than five (5) business days notice, and (d) subject to such further indemnities and credit regulations as the Depositary deems appropriate. Β The number of American Depositary Shares which are outstanding at any time as a result of Pre-Releases will not normally exceed thirty percent (30%) of the Shares deposited hereunder; provided, however, that the Depositary reserves the right to change or disregard such limit from time to time as it deems appropriate.
The Depositary may retain for its own account any compensation received by it in connection with the foregoing.
ARTICLE 3.
CERTAIN OBLIGATIONS OF HOLDERS OF RECEIPTS.
SECTION 3.01.
Filing Proofs, Certificates and Other Information.
Any person presenting Shares for deposit or any Holder of a Receipt may be required from time to time to file with the Depositary such proof of citizenship or residence, exchange control approval, or such information relating to the registration on the books of the Company of the Shares presented for deposit or other information, to execute such certificates and to make such representations and warranties, as the Depositary may deem necessary or proper. Β The Depositary may withhold the delivery or registration of transfer of any Receipt or the distribution or sale of any dividend or other distribution or rights or of the proceeds thereof or the delivery of any Deposited Securities until such proof or other information is filed or such certificates are executed or such representations and warranties made. Β Upon the request of the Company, the Depositary shall deliver to the Company copies of the documents or instruments delivered to the Depositary or any of its agents pursuant to this Section 3.01.
SECTION 3.02.
Liability of Holder for Taxes.
If any tax or other governmental charge shall become payable with respect to any Deposited Securities represented by any Receipt, such tax or other governmental charge shall be payable by the Holder of such Receipt to the Depositary. Β The Depositary may refuse to effect any transfer of such Receipt or any withdrawal of Deposited Securities represented thereby until such payment is made, any may withhold any dividends or other distributions, or may sell for the account of the Holder thereof any part or all of the Deposited Securities represented by such Receipt, and may apply such dividends or other distributions or the proceeds of any such sale in payment of such tax or other governmental charge, the Holder of such Receipt remaining liable for any deficiency.
SECTION 3.03.
Warranties on Deposit of Shares.
Every person depositing Shares under this Deposit Agreement shall be deemed thereby to represent and warrant that such Shares and each certificate therefor is validly issued and subscribed for, fully paid, nonassessable and not subject to pre-emptive rights and that the person making such deposit is duly authorized so to do. Β Such representations and warranties shall survive the deposit of Shares and issuance of Receipts.
ARTICLE 4.
THE DEPOSITED SECURITIES.
SECTION 4.01.
Cash Distributions.
Whenever the Depositary or the Custodian shall receive any cash dividend or other cash distribution by the Company on any Deposited Securities, the Depositary shall, subject to the provisions of Section 4.05, convert such dividend or distribution into dollars and shall distribute the amount thus received to the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto, in proportion to the number of American Depositary Shares representing such Deposited Securities held by them respectively; provided, however, that in the event that the Company, the Custodian or the Depositary shall be required to withhold and does withhold from any cash dividend or other cash distribution in respect of any Deposited Securities an amount on account of taxes, the amount distributed to the Holder of Receipts evidencing American Depositary Shares representing such Deposited Securities shall be reduced accordingly. Β The Depositary shall distribute only such amount, however, as can be distributed without attributing to any Holder of a Receipt a fraction of one cent, and any balance not so distributable shall be held by the Depositary (without liability for interest thereon) and shall be added to and become part of the next sum received by the Depositary for distribution to Holders of Receipts then outstanding. Β The Company will remit to the appropriate governmental authority or agency in the Republic of Ireland all amounts withheld and owing to such authority or agency. Β The Depositary will forward to the Company or its agent such information from its records as the Company may reasonably request to enable the Company to file necessary reports with governmental authorities or agencies, and either the Depositary or the Company or its agent may file any such reports necessary to obtain benefits under the applicable tax treaties for the Holders of Receipts.
SECTION 4.02.
Distributions Other Than Cash, Shares or Rights.
Whenever the Depositary shall receive any distribution other than cash or Shares upon any Deposited Securities, the Depositary shall cause the securities or property received by it to be distributed to the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto, in proportion to the number of American Depositary Shares representing such Deposited Securities held by them respectively, in any manner that the Depositary may deem equitable and practicable for accomplishing such distribution; provided, however, that if in the opinion of the Depositary such distribution cannot be made proportionately among the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto, or if for any other reason (including, but not limited to, any requirement that the Company or the Depositary withhold an amount on account of taxes) the Depositary deems such distribution not to be feasible, the Depositary may adopt such method as it may deem equitable and practicable for the purpose of effecting such distribution, including the sale (public or private) of the securities or property thus received, at any part thereof and the net proceeds of any such sale shall be distributed by the Depositary to the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto as in the case of a distribution received in cash.
SECTION 4.03.
Distributions in Shares.
If any distribution upon any Deposited Securities consists of a dividend in, or free distribution of, Shares, the Depositary may with the Company's approval, and shall if the Company shall so request, distribute to the Holders of outstanding Receipts entitled thereto, in proportion to the number of American Depositary Shares representing such Deposited Securities held by them respectively, additional Receipts for an aggregate number of American Depositary Shares representing the amount of Shares received as such dividend or free distribution. Β In lieu of delivering Receipts for fractional American Depositary Shares in any such case, the Depositary may sell the amount of Shares represented by the aggregate of such fractions and distribute the net proceeds, all in the manner and subject to the conditions described in Section 4.02. Β If additional Receipts are not so distributed, each American Depositary Share shall thenceforth also represent the additional Shares distributed upon the Deposited Securities represented thereby.
SECTION 4.04.
Rights.
In the event that the Company shall offer or cause to be offered to the holders of any Deposited Securities anyΒ rights to subscribe for additional Shares or any rights of any other nature, the Depositary shall have discretion, after consultation with the Company, as to the procedure to be followed in making such rights available to the Holders of Receipts or in disposing of such rights on behalf of such Holders and making the net proceeds available in dollars to such Holders; provided, however, that the Depositary will, if requested by the Company, take action as follows:
(i)
if at the time of the offering of any rights, the Depositary determines that it is lawful and feasible to make such rights available to Holders of Receipts by means of warrants or otherwise, the Depositary shall distribute warrants or other instruments therefor in such form as it may determine to the Holders entitled thereto, in proportion to the number of American Depositary Shares representing such Deposited Securities, or employ such other method as it may deem feasible in order to facilitate the exercise, sale or transfer of rights by such Holders; or
(ii)
if at the time of the offering of any rights the Depositary determines that it is not lawful or not feasible to make such rights available to Holders of Receipts by means of warrants or otherwise, or if the rights represented by such warrants or such other instruments are not exercised and appear to be about to lapse, the Depositary in its discretion may sell such rights or such warrants or other instruments at public or private sale, at such place or places and upon such terms as it may deem proper, and may allocate the proceeds of such sales for account of the Holders of Receipts otherwise entitled to such rights, warrants or other instruments, upon an averaged or other practicable basis without regard to any distinctions among such Holders because of exchange restrictions, or the date of delivery of any Receipt or Receipts, or otherwise.
If registration under the Securities Act of 1933 of the securities to which any rights relate is required in order for the Company to offer such rights to Holders of Receipts and sell the securities represented by such rights, the Depositary will not offer such rights to the Holders of Receipts unless and until such a registration statement is in effect, or unless the offering and sale of suchΒ securities to the Holders of such Receipts are exempt from registration under the provisions of such Act.
SECTION 4.05.
Conversion of Foreign Currency.
Whenever the Depositary shall receive foreign currency, by way of dividends or other distributions or the net proceeds from the sale of securities, property or rights, and if at the time of the receipt thereof the foreign currency so received can in the judgment of the Depositary be converted on a reasonable basis into dollars and the resulting dollars transferred to the United States, the Depositary shall as promptly as practicable convert or cause to be converted, by sale or in any other manner that it may determine, such foreign currency into dollars, and such dollars shall be distributed to the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto or, if the Depositary shall have distributed any warrants or other instruments which entitle the holders thereof to such dollars, then to the holders of such warrants and/or instruments upon surrender thereof for cancellation. Β Such distribution may be made upon an averaged or other practicable basis without regard to any distinctions among Holders on account of exchange restrictions or otherwise.
If such conversion or distribution can be effected only with the approval or license of any government or agency thereof, the Depositary shall file such application for approval or license, if any.
If at any time the Depositary shall determine that in its judgment any foreign currency received by the Depositary is not convertible on a reasonable basis into dollars transferable to the United States, or if any approval or license of any government authority or agency thereof which is required for such conversion is denied or in the opinion of the Depositary is not obtainable, or if any such approval or license is not obtained within a reasonable period as determined by the Depositary, the Depositary may distribute the foreign currency (or an appropriate document evidencing the right to receive such foreign currency) received by the Depositary to, or in its discretion may hold such foreign currency for the respective accounts of, the Holders of Receipts entitled to receive the same.
If any suchΒ conversion of foreign currency, in whole or in part, cannot be effected for distribution to some Holders of Receipts entitled thereto, the Depositary may in its discretion make such conversion and distribution in dollars to the extent permissible to the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto and may distribute the balance of the foreign currency received by the Depositary to, or hold suchΒ balance for the account of, the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto.
SECTION 4.06.
Fixing of Record Date.
Whenever any cash dividend or other cash distribution shall become payable or any distribution other than cash shall be made, or whenever rights shall be issued with respect to the Deposited Securities, or whenever for any reason the Depositary causes a change in the number of Shares that are represented by each American Depositary Share, or whenever the Depositary shall receive notice of any meeting of holders of Shares or other Deposited Securities, the Depositary shall fix a record date after consultation with the Company for the determination of the Holders of Receipts who shall be entitled to receive such dividend, distribution or rights, or the net proceeds of the sale thereof, or to give instructions for the exercise of voting rights at any such meeting. Β Subject to the provisions of Sections 4.01 through 4.05 and to the other terms and conditions of this Deposit Agreement, the Holders of Receipts on such record date shall be entitled to receive the amount distributable by the Depositary with respect to such dividend or other distribution or such rights or the net proceeds of sale thereof in proportion to the number of American Depositary Shares held by them respectively and to give voting instructions and to act in respect of any other such matter.
SECTION 4.07.
Voting of Deposited Securities.
Upon receipt of notice of any meeting of holders of Shares or other Deposited Securities, the Depositary shall, as soon as practicable thereafter, mail to the Holders of Receipts a notice which shall contain (a) such information as is contained in such notice of meeting, and (b) a statement that the Holders of Receipts at the close of business on a specified record date will be entitled, subject to any applicable provisions of law and of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company, to instruct the Depositary as to the exercise of the voting rights, if any, pertaining to the amount of Shares representing Ordinary Shares or other Deposited Securities represented by their respective American Depositary Shares, and a brief statement as to the manner in which such instructions may be given, including an express indication that instructions may be given to the Depositary to give a discretionary proxy to a designated member or members of the Board of Directors of the Company. Β Upon the written request of a Holder of a Receipt on such record date, received on or before the date established by the Depositary for such purpose, the Depositary shall endeavor in so far as practicable to vote or cause to be voted the amount of Shares representing Ordinary Shares or other Deposited Securities represented by such Receipt in accordance with the instructions set forth in suchΒ request. Β The Depositary shall not, and the Depositary shall ensure that the Custodian and any of its nominees shall not, vote the amount of Shares or other Deposited Securities represented by a Receipt unless it receives instructions from the record holder of such Receipt, nor shall the Depositary or Custodian demand a poll.
SECTION 4.08.
Changes Affecting Deposited Securities.
In circumstances where the provisions of Section 4.03 do not apply, upon any change in par value, split-up, consolidation or any other reclassification of Deposited Securities, or upon any recapitalization, reorganization, merger or consolidation or sale of assets affecting the Company or to which it is a party, any securities which shall be received by the Depositary in exchange for or in conversion of or in respect of Deposited Securities shall be treated as new Deposited Securities under this Deposit Agreement, and American Depositary Shares shall thenceforth represent the new Deposited Securities so received in exchange or conversion, unless additional Receipts are delivered pursuant to the following sentence. Β In any such case the Depositary may with the Company's approval, and shall if the Company so requests, execute and deliver additional Receipts as in the case of a stock dividend, or call for the surrender of outstanding Receipts to be exchanged for new Receipts specifically describing such new Deposited Securities.
SECTION 4.09.
Reports.
The Depositary shall make available for inspection by Holders of Receipts at its Corporate Trust Office, any reports and communications received from the Company which are both (a) received by the Depositary as the holder of the Deposited Securities and (b) made generally available to the holders of such Deposited Securities by the Company. Β The Depositary shall also send to Holders of Receipts copies of such reports when furnished by the Company pursuant to Section 5.06.
SECTION 4.10.
Lists of Holders.
Promptly upon request by the Company, the Depositary shall furnish to it a list, as of the most recent practicable date, of the names, addresses and holdings of American Depositary Shares by all persons in whose names Receipts are registered on the books of the Depositary. Β Any other records maintained by the Depositary, the Custodian, the Registrar or any co-transfer agent or co-registrar under and in connection with this Deposit Agreement shall be made available to the Company upon its request.
SECTION 4.11.
Withholding.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Deposit Agreement, in the event that the Depositary determines that any distribution in property (including Shares or rights to subscribe therefor) is subject to any tax which the Depositary is obligated to withhold, the Depositary may, by public or private sale, dispose of all or a portion of such property (including Shares and rights to subscribe therefor) in such amounts and in such manner as the Depositary deems necessary and practicable to pay such taxes and the Depositary shall distribute the net proceeds of any such sale or the balance of any such property after deduction of such taxes to the Holders of Receipts entitled thereto.
ARTICLE 5.
THE DEPOSITARY, THE CUSTODIAN AND THE COMPANY.
SECTION 5.01.
Maintenance of Office and Transfer Books by the Depositary.
Until termination of this Deposit Agreement in accordance with its terms, the Depositary shall maintain in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York, facilities for the execution and delivery, registration, registration of transfers and surrender of Receipts in accordance with the provisions of this Deposit Agreement.
The Depositary shall keep books for the registration of Receipts and transfers of Receipts which at all reasonable times shall be open for inspection by the Holders of Receipts, provided that such inspection shall not be for the purpose of communicating with Holders of Receipts in the interest of a business or object other than the business of the Company or a matter related to this Deposit Agreement or the Receipts.
The Depositary may close the transfer books, at any time or from time to time, when deemed expedient by it in connection with the performance of its duties hereunder.
If any Receipts or the American Depositary Shares represented thereby are listed on one or more stock exchanges in the United States, the Depositary shall act a Registrar or, with the approval of the Company, appoint a Registrar or one or more co-registrars for registry of such Receipts in accordance with any requirements of such exchanges. Β Such Registrar or co-registrars may be removed and substitute appointed by the Depositary upon the request or with the approval of the Company.
The Company shall have the right to inspect transfer and registration records of the Depositary, take copies thereof and require the Depositary, the Registrar and any co-transfer agents or co-registrars to supply copies of such portions of their records as the Company may request upon reasonable advance notice.
SECTION 5.02.
Prevention or Delay in Performance by the Depositary or the Company.
Neither the Depositary nor the Company shall incur any liability to any Holder of any Receipt, if by reason of any provision of any present or future law or regulation of the United States or the Republic of Ireland or any other country, or of any other governmental authority, or by reason of any provision, present or future, of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company, or by reason of any act of God or war or other circumstances beyond its control, the Depositary or the Company shall be prevented or forbidden from doing or performing any act or thing which by the terms of this Deposit Agreement it is provided shall be done or performed; nor shall the Depositary or the Company incur any liability to any Holder of a Receipt by reason of any non-performance or delay, caused as aforesaid, in performance of any act or thing which by the terms of this Deposit Agreement it is provided shall or may be done or performed, or by reason of any exercise of, or failure to exercise, any discretion provided for in this Deposit Agreement.
SECTION 5.03.
Obligation of the Depositary, the Custodian and the Company.
The Company and its directors, employees, agents and controlling persons (as defined in the Securities Act of 1933) assume no obligation nor shall they be subject to any liability under this Deposit Agreement to Holders of Receipts, except that the Company agrees to perform its obligations specifically set forth in this Deposit Agreement without negligence or bad faith.
The Depositary and its directors, employees, agents and controlling persons (as defined in the Securities Act of 1933) assume no obligation nor shall they be subject to any liability under this Deposit Agreement to Holders of Receipts (including, without limitation, liability with respect to the validity or worth of the Deposited Securities), except that the Depositary agrees to perform its obligations specifically set forth in this Deposit Agreement without negligence or bad faith.
Neither the Depositary nor the Company nor any of its directors, employees, agents and controlling persons (as defined in the Securities Act of 1933) shall be under any obligation to appear in, prosecute or defend any action, suit or other proceeding in respect of any Deposited Securities or in respect of the Receipts, which in its opinion may involve it in expense or liability, unless indemnity satisfactory to it against all expense and liability be furnished as often as may be required, and the Custodian shall not be under any obligations whatsoever with respect to such proceedings, the responsibility of the Custodian being solely to the Depositary.
Neither the Depositary nor the Company nor any of its directors, employees, agents and controlling persons (as defined in the Securities Act of 1933) shall be liable for any action or non-action by it in reliance upon the advice of or information from legal counsel, accountants, any person presenting Shares for deposit, any Holder of a Receipt, or any other person believed by them in good faith to be competent to give such advice or information.
The Depositary shall not be responsible for any failure to carry out any instructions to vote any of the Deposited Securities, or for the manner in which any such vote is cast or effect of any such vote, provided that any such action or non-action is in good faith.
The Depositary may own and deal in any class of securities of the Company and its affiliates and in Receipts.
No disclaimer of liability under the Securities Act of 1933 is intended by any provision of this Deposit Agreement.
SECTION 5.04.
Resignation and Removal of the Depositary; Appointment of Successor Depositary.
The Depositary may at any time resign as Depositary hereunder by written notice of its election so to do delivered to the Company, such resignation to take effect upon the appointment of a successor depositary and its acceptance of such appointment as hereinafter provided.
The Depositary may at any time be removed by the Company by written notice of such removal effective upon the appointment of a successor depositary and its acceptance of such appointment as hereinafter provided.
In case at any time the Depositary acting hereunder shall resign or be removed, the Company shall use its best efforts to appoint a successor depositary, which shall be a bank or trust company having an office in the Borough of Manhattan, The City of New York. Β Every successor depositary shall execute and deliver to its predecessor and to the Company an instrument in writing accepting its appointment hereunder, and thereupon such successor depositary, without any further act or deed, shall become fully vested with all the rights, powers, duties and obligations of its predecessor; but such predecessor, nevertheless, upon payment of all sums due it and on the written request of the Company shall execute and deliver an instrument transferring to such successor all rights and powers of such predecessor hereunder, shall duly assign, transfer and deliver all right, title and interest in the Deposited Securities to such successor, and shall deliver to such successor a list of the Holders of all outstanding Receipts. Β Any such successor depositary shall promptly mail notice of its appointment to the Holders of Receipts.
Any corporation into or with which the Depositary may be merged or consolidated shall be the successor of the Depositary without the execution or filing of any document or any further act.
SECTION 5.05.
The Custodian.
The Depositary has appointed the Bank of Ireland as Custodian and agent of the Depositary for the purposes of this Deposit Agreement. Β The Custodian or its successors in acting hereunder shall be subject at all times and in all respects to the directions of the Depositary and shall be responsible solely to it. Β Any Custodian may resign and be discharged from its duties hereunder by notice of such resignation delivered to the Depositary at least 30 days prior to the date on which such resignation is to become effective. Β The Depositary shall, promptly after receiving such notice, appoint a substitute custodian, which shall thereafter be the Custodian hereunder. Β Whenever the Depositary in its discretion determines that it is in the best interest of the Holders of Receipts to do so, it may appoint a substitute custodian, which shall thereafter be the Custodian hereunder, and upon demand of the Depositary the previous Custodian shall deliver the Deposited Securities held by it to such substitute custodian. Β Each such substitute custodian shall deliver to the Depositary forthwith upon its appointment, an acceptance of such appointment satisfactory in form and substance to the Depositary. Β Upon any such change, the Depositary shall give notice thereof in writing to all Holders of Receipts as promptly as practicable.
Upon the appointment of any successor depositary hereunder, the Custodian then acting hereunder shall forthwith become, without any further act or writing, the agent hereunder of such successor depositary and the appointment of such successor depositary shall in no way impair the authority of the Custodian hereunder; but the successor depositary so appointed shall, nevertheless, on the written request of the Custodian, execute and deliver to the Custodian all such instruments as may be proper to give to the Custodian full and complete power and authority as agent hereunder of such successor depositary.
SECTION 5.06.
Notices and Reports.
On or before the first date of giving by the Company of notice, by publication or otherwise, of any meeting of holders of Shares or other Deposited Securities, or of any adjourned meeting of such holders, or of the taking of any action in respect of any cash or other distributions or the offering of any rights, the Company agrees to transmit to the Custodian a copy of the notice thereof in the form given or to be given to holders of Shares or other Deposited Securities.
The Depositary will, at the Company's expense, arrange for the prompt transmittal by the Custodian to the Depositary of such notices and any other reports and communications which are made generally available by the Company to holders of its Shares, and arrange for the mailing, at the Company's expense, of copies thereof to all Holders of Receipts.
SECTION 5.07.
Issuance of Additional Shares, etc.
The Company agrees that in the event of any issuance of (1) additional Shares, (2) rights to subscribe for Shares, (3) securities convertible into Shares, or (4) rights to subscribe for such securities, the Company will promptly furnish to the Depositary a written opinion from counsel for the Company in the United States, which counsel shall be reasonable satisfactory to the Depositary, stating whether the circumstances of such issue are such as to make it necessary for a Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 to be in effect prior to the delivery of the Receipts to be issued in connection with such securities or the issuance of such rights. Β If in the opinion of such counsel a Registration Statement is required, such counsel shall furnish to the Depositary a written opinion as to whether there is a Registration Statement in effect which will cover such issuance of securities or rights.
The Company agrees with the Depositary that neither the Company nor any company controlled by the Company will at any time deposit any Shares, either upon original issuance or upon a sale of Shares previously issued and reacquired by the Company or by any company under its control, unless a Registration Statement is in effect as to such Shares under the Securities Act of 1933 or registration of such Shares is not required under such Act. Β Nothing in this Section 5.07 or elsewhere in this Deposit Agreement shall create any obligation on the part of the Company or the Depositary to file a registration statement in respect of such securities or rights.
SECTION 5.08.
Indemnification.
The Company agrees to indemnify the Depositary and the Custodian, their directors, employees, agents and affiliates against, and hold each of them harmless from, any liability or expense which may arise out of acts performed or omitted, in accordance with the provisions of this Deposit Agreement and of the Receipts, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time, (i) by either the Depositary or the Custodian, except for any liability or expense arising out of the negligence or bad faith of either of them, or (ii) by the Company or any of its agents.
The indemnities contained in the preceding paragraph shall not extend to any liability or expense which arises solely and exclusively out of a Pre-Release (as defined in Section 2.09) of a Receipt or Receipts in accordance with Section 2.09 and which would not otherwise have arisen had such Receipt or Receipts not been the subject of a Pre-Release pursuant to Section 2.09; provided, however, that the indemnities provided in the preceding paragraph shall apply to any such liability or expense (i) to the extent that such liability or expense would have arisen had a Receipt or Receipts not be the subject of a Pre-Release, or (ii) which may arise out of any misstatement or alleged misstatement or omission or alleged omission in any registration statement, proxy statement, prospectus (or placement memorandum), or preliminary prospectus (or preliminary placement memorandum) relating to the offer or sale of American Depositary Shares, except to the extent any such liability or expense arises out of (i) information relating to the Depositary or any Custodian (other than the Company), as applicable, furnished in writing and not materially changed or altered by the Company expressly for use in any of the foregoing documents, or, (ii) if such information is provided, the failure to state a material fact necessary to make the information provided not misleading.
The Depositary agrees to indemnify the Company, its directors, employees, agents and affiliates and hold them harmless from any liability which may arise out of acts performed or omitted by the Depositary or its Custodian due to their negligence or bad faith.
If an action, proceeding (including, but not limited to, any governmental investigation), claim or dispute (collectively, a "Proceeding") in respect of which indemnity may be sought by either party is brought or asserted against the other party, the party seeking indemnification (the "Indemnitee") shall promptly (and in no event more than ten (10) days after receipt of notice of such Proceeding) notify the party obligated to provide such indemnification (the "Indemnitor") of such Proceeding. Β The failure of the Indemnitee to so notify the Indemnitor shall not impair the Indemnitee's ability to seek indemnification from the Indemnitor (but only for costs, expenses and liabilities incurred after such notice) unless such failure adversely affects the Indemnitor's ability to adequately oppose or defend such Proceeding. Β Upon receipt of such notice from the Indemnitee, the Indemnitor shall be entitled to participate in such Proceeding and, to the extent that it shall so desire and provided no conflict of interest exists as specified in subparagraph (b) below or there are no other defenses available to Indemnitee as specified in subparagraph (d) below, to assume the defense thereof with counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnitee (in which case all attorney's fees and expenses shall be borne by the Indemnitor and the Indemnitor shall in good faith defend the Indemnitee). Β The Indemnitee shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such Proceeding and to participate in the defense thereof, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be borne by the Indemnitee unless (a) the Indemnitor agrees in writing to pay such fees and expenses, (b) the Indemnitee shall have reasonably and in good faith concluded that there is a conflict of interest between the Indemnitor and the Indemnitee in the conduct of the defense of such action, (c) the Indemnitor fails, within ten (10) days prior to the date the first response or appearance is required to be made in such Proceeding, to assume the defense of such Proceeding with counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Indemnitee or (d) there are legal defenses available to Indemnitee that are different from or are in addition to those available to the Indemnitor. Β No compromise or settlement of such Proceeding may be effected by either party without the other party's consent unless (i) there is no finding or admission of any violation of law and no effect on any other claims that may be made against such other party and (ii) the sole relief provided is monetary damages that are paid in full by the party seeking the settlement. Β Neither party shall have any liability with respect to any compromise or settlement effected without its consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. Β The Indemnitor shall have no obligation to indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnitee from any loss, expense or liability incurred by the Indemnitee as a result of a default judgment entered against the Indemnitee unless such judgment was entered after the Indemnitor agreed, in writing, to assume the defense of such Proceeding.
SECTION 5.09.
Charges of Depositary.
The Company agrees to pay the fees, reasonable expenses and out-of-pocket charges of the Depositary and those of any Registrar only in accordance with agreements in writing entered into between the Depositary and the Company from time to time. Β The Depositary shall present its statement for such charges and expenses to the Company once every three months. Β The charges and expenses of the Custodian are for the sole account of the Depositary.
The following charges shall be incurred by any party depositing or withdrawing Shares or by any party surrendering Receipts or to whom Receipts are issued (including, without limitation, issuance pursuant to a stock dividend or stock split declared by the Company or an exchange regarding the Receipts or Deposited Securities or a distribution of Receipts pursuant to Section 4.03), whichever applicable: (1) taxes and other governmental charges, (2) such registration fees as may from time to time be in effect for the registration of transfers of Shares generally on the Share register of the Company or Foreign Registrar and applicable to transfers of Shares to the name of the Depositary or its nominee or the Custodian or its nominee on the making of deposits or withdrawals hereunder, (3) such cable, telex and facsimile transmission expenses as are expressly provided in this Deposit Agreement, (4) such expenses as are incurred by the Depositary in the conversion of foreign currency pursuant to Section 4.05 (5) a fee of $5.00 or less per 100 American Depositary Shares (or portion thereof) for the execution and delivery of Receipts pursuant to Section 2.03, 4.03 or 4.04, and the surrender of Receipts pursuant to Section 2.05 or 6.02, (6) a fee of $.02 or less per American Depositary Share (or portion thereof) for any cash distribution made pursuant to the Deposit Agreement including, but not limited to, Sections 4.01 through 4.04 hereof and (7) a fee for the distribution of securities pursuant to Section 4.02, such fee being in an amount equal to the fee for the execution and delivery of American Depositary Shares referred to above which would have been charged as a result of the deposit of such securities (for purposes of this clause (7) treating all such securities as if they were Shares), but which securities are instead distributed by the Depositary to Owners.
The Depositary, subject to Section 2.09 hereof, may own and deal in any class of securities of the Company and its affiliates and in Receipts.
ARTICLE 6.
AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION.
SECTION 6.01.
Amendment.
The form of the Receipts and any provisions of this Deposit Agreement may at any time and from time to time be amended by agreement between the Company and the Depositary in any respect which they may deem necessary or desirable. Β Any amendment which shall impose or increase any fees or charges (other than taxes and other governmental charges, registration fees, cable, telex or facsimile transmission costs, delivery costs or other such expenses), or which shall otherwise prejudice any substantial existing right of Holders of Receipts, shall, however, not become effective as to outstanding Receipts until the expiration of three months after notice of amendment to this Deposit Agreement shall have been given to the Holders of outstanding Receipts. Β Every Holder of a Receipt at the time any amendment to this Deposit Agreement so becomes effective shall be deemed, by continuing to hold such Receipt, to consent and agree to such amendment and to be bound by the Deposit Agreement as amended thereby. Β In no event shall any amendment impair the right of the Holder of any Receipt to surrender such Receipt and receive therefor the Deposited Securities represented thereby. Β In no event shall any amendment impair the right of the Owner of any Receipt to surrender such Receipt and to receive therefor the Deposited Securities represented thereby, except in order to comply with mandatory provisions of applicable law.
SECTION 6.02.
Termination.
The Depositary shall at any time at the direction of the Company terminate this Deposit Agreement by mailing notice of such termination to the Holders of all Receipts then outstanding at least 30 days prior to the date fixed in such notice for such termination. Β The Depositary may likewise terminate this Deposit Agreement by mailing notice of such termination to the Company and Holders of all Receipts then outstanding if at any time 60 days shall have expired after the Depositary shall Β have delivered to the Company a written notice of its election to resign and a successor depositary shall not have been appointed and accepted its appointment as provided in Section 5.04. Β On and after the date of termination, the Holder of a Receipt will, upon (a) surrender of such Receipt at the Corporate Trust Office of the Depositary, (b) payment of the fee of the Depositary for the surrender of Receipts referred to in Section 2.05 and (c) payment of any applicable taxes or governmental charges, be entitled to delivery, to him or upon his order, of the amount of Deposited Securities represented by the American Depositary Shares evidenced by such Receipt. Β If any Receipts shall remain outstanding after the date of termination, the Depositary thereafter shall discontinue the registration of transfers of Receipts, shall suspend the distribution of dividends to the Holders thereof, and shall not give any further notices or perform any further acts under this Deposit Agreement, except that the Depositary shall continue to collect dividends and other distributions pertaining to Deposited Securities, shall sell rights as provided in this Deposit Agreement, and shall continue to deliver Deposited Securities, together with any dividends or other distributions received with respect thereto and the net proceeds of the sale of any rights or other property, in exchange for Receipts surrendered to the Depositary. Β At any time after the expiration of two years from the date of termination, the Depositary may sell the Deposited Securities then held hereunder and may thereafter hold the net proceeds of any such sale, together with any other cash then held by it hereunder, without liability for interest, for the pro rata benefit of the Holders of Receipts which Β have not theretofore been surrendered. Β After making such sale, the Depositary shall be discharged from all obligations under this Deposit Agreement, except to account for such net proceeds and other cash. Β Upon the termination of this Deposit Agreement, the Company shall be discharged from all obligations under this Deposit Agreement except for its obligations to the Depositary under Section 5.08 and 5.09 hereof.
ARTICLE 7.
MISCELLANEOUS.
SECTION 7.01.
Counterparts.
This Deposit Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of such counterparts shall constitute one and the same instrument. Β Copies of this Deposit Agreement shall be filed with the Depositary and the Custodian and shall be open to inspection by any Holders of a Receipt during business hours.
SECTION 7.02.
No Third Party Beneficiaries.
This Deposit Agreement is for the exclusive benefit of the parties hereto and shall not be deemed to give any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim whatsoever to any other person.
SECTION 7.03.
Severability.
In case any one or more of the provisions contained in this Deposit Agreement or in the Receipts should be or become invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein or therein shall in no wise be affected, prejudiced or disturbed thereby.
SECTION 7.04.
Holders Parties; Binding Effect.
The Holders of Receipts from time to time shall be parties to this Deposit Agreement and shall be bound by all of the terms and conditions hereof and of the Receipts by acceptance thereof.
SECTION 7.05.
Notices.
Any and all notices to be given to the Company shall be deemed to have been duly given if personally delivered to sent by mail or cable, telex or facsimile transmission confirmed by letter, addressed to ICON plc, Bank of Ireland, South County Business Park, Leopardstown, Xxxxxx 00, Xxxxxxx, or any other place to which the Company may have transferred its principal office.
Any and all notices to be given to the Depositary shall be deemed to have been duly given if personally delivered or sent by mail or cable, telex or facsimile transmission confirmed by letter, addressed to The Bank of New York, 000 Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx, Xxx Xxxx, Xxx Xxxx 00000, or any other place to which the Depositary may have transferred this Corporate Trust Office.
Any and all notices to be given to any Holder of a Receipt shall be deemed to have been duly given if personally delivered or sent by mail or cable, telex or facsimile transmission confirmed by letter, addressed to such Holder at the address of such Holder as its appears on the transfer books for Receipts of the Depositary, or, if such Holder shall have filed with the Depositary a written request that notices intended for such Holder be mailed to some other address, at the address designated in such request.
Delivery of a notice sent by mail or cable, telex or facsimile transmission shall be deemed to be effected at the time when a duly addressed letter containing the same (or a confirmation thereof in the case of a cable, telex or facsimile transmission) is deposited, postage prepaid, in a post-office letter box. Β The Depositary or the Company may, however, act upon any cable, telex or facsimile transmission received by it from the other or from any Holder of a Receipt, notwithstanding that such cable, telex or facsimile transmission shall not subsequently be confirmed by letter as aforesaid.
SECTION 7.06.
Governing Law.
This Deposit Agreement and the Receipts shall be interpreted and all rights hereunder and thereunder and provisions hereof and thereof shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York.
SECTION 7.07.
Compliance with U.S. Securities Laws.
Notwithstanding anything in this Deposit Agreement to the contrary, the Company and the Depositary each agrees that it will not exercise any rights it has under this Deposit Agreement to permit the withdrawal or delivery of Deposited Securities in a manner which would violate the U.S. securities laws, including, but not limited to, Section I.A.(1) of the General Instructions to the Form F-6 Registration Statement, as amended from time to time, under the Securities Act of 1933.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, ICON plc and THE BANK OF NEW YORK have duly executed this agreement as of the day and year first above set forth and all Holders of Receipts shall become parties hereto upon acceptance by them of Receipts issued in accordance with the terms hereof.
ICON plc
By:_______________________
THE BANK OF NEW YORK
By:_______________________
Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Xxxxxxx Xxxxx
Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Vice President
