Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

In regard to the consolidation of company law generally, that exercise will happen next year. Other legislation has been passed recently in regard to company law. While certain agencies are independently provided with the statutory powers to investigate these matters which are currently ongoing, there is also the question of the independence of the Director of Public Prosecutions in respect of criminal offences. That is a competence which is exclusive to the Director of Public Prosecutions in respect of criminal charges. That is the law and constitutional position in this country.

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