Director of corporate enforcement to step down

The director of corporate enforcement Paul Appleby has announced he is to retire at the end of next month.

Mr Appleby has held the position for 10 years since the establishment of the office.

He has led the ODCE investigation into Anglo Irish Bank, which is almost complete.

In a statement, he has said he is confident his retirement will not impede the inquiry.

An acting-director will be appointed following approval from the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin.