This notice for Annex IIB Category No 21 Legal Services is published voluntarily in the OJEU to bring it to the attention of the wider public and possible cross border interest, and is not subject to the timelines applicable to procedures covered by the Directive.

Investigations and Enforcement Directorate (IES) investigates complaints against live companies and the conduct of directors of failed companies, and takes proceedings to wind up companies in the public interest, disqualify directors, (and take part in obtaining restrictions orders against bankrupts) where it is appropriate to do so.

In order to do this, IES utilises a legal services framework for the vast bulk of its legal advice and litigation in relation to case related matters. In addition, solicitors on the framework are employed to undertake disqualification investigations (“outsourced investigations”).

The framework encompasses the following:

— Disqualification proceedings,

— Public interest petitions,

— Disqualification investigations,

— Disqualification report drafting,

— Other applications,

— Cost recovery,

— Advice on case related matters,

— Other general matters.