Commentary on Sections Functions of sheriff and Accountant in Bankruptcy in sequestration Section 30 – Removal of trustee and trustee not acting
78.This section amends section 29 of the 1985 Act in order to provide for AiB to be able to deal with the removal of a trustee. AiB will look at the application to remove the trustee and will make the necessary order required under revised section 29(1)(b) of the 1985 Act and, if subsequently required, revised section 29(3).
79.New subsection (3A) of the 1985 Act provides that the trustee, the commissioners or any creditor may apply to AiB for a review of any decision of AiB to raise an order to remove a trustee from office. An application for a review must be made within 14 days of the decision being made. New subsection (3C)(a) and (b) of the 1985 Act provides that AiB must on receipt of an application for review take into account any representations made by an interested person within 21 days of the application being made. Thereafter AiB must confirm, amend or revoke their decision within 28 days of the application being made. New subsection (4) of the 1985 Act confirms that the right of onward appeal to the sheriff remains, once AiB has reviewed its decision. AiB can also refer a case to the sheriff for direction before making any order or declaration or undertaking any review. An application for review of a decision cannot be made if the matter has been referred to the sheriff for direction.