Fisher & Paykel Health: FY09 earnings may be higher

SYDNEY, Oct 22 (Reuters) - New Zealand's Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Ltd (FPH.NZ) (FPH.AX) said on Wednesday its operating profit in its fiscal 2009 and beyond may be higher following the local dollar's steep fall.

In response to a query from the Australian Stock Exchange on moves in its share price, the company said there was potential for operating profit to be higher than previous guidance of NZ$86 million ($52.1 million). ($1=NZ$1.65) (Reporting by James Thornhill)