Appleby to remain in watchdog post for another six months

The Director of Corporate Enforcement Paul Appleby, who announced his retirement earlier today, has now decided to remain on in the job for another six months, following talks with the Government.

He is the chief investigator into the suspected fraud at Anglo Irish Bank and it is understood he has decided to stay on in his position, so as to ensure there is no disruption to the investigation.

Mr Appleby has been the Director of Corporate Enforcement for the past 10 years.

It is hoped the Anglo probe will be concluded in the coming months.

Minister Howlin has confirmed that talks took place today between the Government and Mr Appleby and that he has agreed to defer his retirement until his replacement is found.

It is not known whether extending his tenure will affect Mr Appleby's pension entitlements.

As a public servant, he needed to apply by today in order to qualify for the Government's early retirement scheme, which entitles him to a pension based on the salary he earned before public sector pay cuts were imposed.