Powers would make IBRC inquiry a tribunal in all but name and kick start stalled probe

Fresh powers to strengthen the IBRC inquiry would make it a tribunal in all but name and allow the stalled probe to resume work and report back within a year, Enda Kenny has told opposition leaders.

Outlining legislation to beef up the IBRC Commission of Investigation, Mr Kenny also warned of legal challenges and costs for the embattled probe.

He said attempts to prioritise an investigation on the sale of construction company Siteserv, sold at a write down of €119m to business man Denis O’Brien, could result in a legal challenge.