Power Struggle Leads to Unfilled Garda Roles in Corporate Watchdog

The Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA), responsible for enforcing company law, refused to fill vacant garda roles in a dispute over the powers of its chief executive, Ian Drennan. Mr. Drennan also sought the transfer of four gardaí previously seconded to the authority, citing the need for fresh ideas and experience. The tensions within the CEA led to allegations of a toxic work environment, as detailed in the annual report.

During 2024, the CEA faced challenges in decision-making and obtaining information related to criminal enforcement activity. Disputes arose over the supervision of seconded gardaí and the nature of their secondments, causing financial strain and management distractions. The CEA temporarily deferred filling vacant garda roles in October 2024 but later resumed engagement with the Garda in early 2025.

Mr. Drennan emphasized the importance of renewing the organization's criminal investigative capabilities and requested the rescinding of secondments for four gardaí. New gardaí will be assigned through temporary transfers and competitive processes. The GRA represented the seconded gardaí who objected to the move, and a civilian staff member lodged a case over work conditions.

A cultural audit of the organization is planned as part of a new strategy, following the rebranding of the ODCE as the CEA in 2022. The CEA's history includes public criticism over the handling of the prosecution of Seán FitzPatrick, the former Anglo Irish Bank chief executive and chairman, whose charges were dropped in 2017 due to shortcomings in the investigation.