Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 630: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will reply to a matter (details supplied) regarding the delay in the investigation into Anglo Irish Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23076/11]

Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 642: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the investigation into Anglo Irish Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23173/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 630 and 642 together.

I share the impatience of many people at the pace of the investigations into possible criminal behaviour at Anglo Irish Bank. I do not intend this as any criticism of investigators and prosecutors, who face tough challenges as a result of the complexities of the matters being investigated. At the same time, I am concerned to ensure that I do not say anything that could prejudice any possible prosecutions or any court hearing. It is imperative that such investigations are conducted in a thorough, methodical and comprehensive manner, so as to ensure that account is taken of all pertinent matters. If this is not done, there is a risk that any prosecutions that may proceed would be jeopardised.

It was in the light of my concerns that I gave priority to the passage through the Oireachtas of the Criminal Justice Act 2011, which was enacted on 2 August and most of which was commenced on 9 August. This new legislation is intended to speed up investigations and prosecutions in relation to white collar crimes, both future investigations and those currently underway, by improving a number of important procedural matters and strengthening Garda investigative powers.

On becoming Minister, I sought and received assurances that there were sufficient resources available to the investigations. I can assure the Deputy that this Government will continue to provide sustained support for the investigation in terms of resources, as well as the necessary legislative and administrative supports, and that if those involved in the investigations believe at any stage that additional resources are required that will be responded to.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that, following the submission by the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation of two substantial investigation files relating to matters in Anglo Irish Bank to the Director of Public Prosecutions last December, a supplementary investigation file was submitted in May. The files remain under consideration by the DPP, and his directions are awaited.

The investigation by An Garda Síochána and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement is ongoing, in respect of both of these two investigations and also of other complaints received of alleged malpractice at Anglo Irish Bank. I understand that it is intended to submit further files to the DPP in the near future.