Fears delayed report could see collapse of bank inquiry

The delayed release of the banking inquiry’s final report until next year has prompted fears that any further setbacks could collapse the probe if an early general election is called.

The latest dilemma for the inquiry comes as the Department of Finance yesterday refused to respond to a claim by former Anglo CEO Mike Aynsley that it wanted IBRC (formerly Anglo) to ignore a certain bussinessperson who was the highest bidder in the sale of an asset, and agree to its sale to a rival bidder for €100m less.

Whistleblower allegations about how the inquiry has operated, including claims that the Department of Finance and the Central Bank were given preferential treatment, are behind delays in the probe completing its work.