Michael Fingleton’s death leaves outcome of civil case in doubt

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

Former Irish Nationwide Building Society chief Michael Fingleton has died aged 88, leaving the outcome of the civil case against him in doubt. His death was reported on 4 August 2026.

The High Court case concluded in October 2025 after 41 days of evidence and submissions. Mr Justice Michael Quinn reserved judgment, saying he would endeavour to deliver a ruling as soon as possible.

The liquidators of Irish Banking Resolution Corporation pursued damages of about €250 million over five loans allegedly approved by Mr Fingleton. He denied negligent mismanagement.

His lawyers argued that missing documents and witnesses left the defence unfairly hampered. IBRC’s counsel alleged that Mr Fingleton had approved speculative, risky commercial loans.