Year-end earnings drop for Berkshire Bank parent.(Business)(Financial report)

Despite fourth-quarter profit gains, year-end earnings dipped at the parent of Berkshire Bank.

Berkshire Hills Bancorp Inc. posted $4.8 million in net income in the quarter, or 55 cents diluted earnings per share, versus $3.2 million in 2004, which also came to 55 cents per diluted share.

Over 2005, the company reported $8.2 million in profits, or $1.10 per share, versus $11.5 million, or $2.01 per share in 2004. Berkshire noted a one-time $8.8 million charge related to ending its employee stock ownership plan.

The Pittsfield, Mass.-based company has three Capital Region branches.

- Kevin Harlin