(Editor's note: The media release dated Sept. 26, 2002, was incorrectly published with a ratings list. A new version of the release follows.) NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's) Sept. 27, 2002--Standard&Poor's today placed its long-term ratings on M&T Bank Corp. (M&T) and its long- and short-term ratings on its bank subsidiary on CreditWatch with positive implications. The short-term ratings of M&T are affirmed. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its ratings on Allfirst Financial Inc. (Allfirst) and placed its long- and short-term ratings on Allfirst's bank subsidiaries on CreditWatch with positive implications. Allied Irish Banks (AIB) ratings are affirmed. These actions follow the announcement that M&T and Allfirst's parent, AIB, have reached an agreement on the
