Two former senior executives with Quinn Insurance Limited, in administration since 2010, have taken a legal challenge aimed at preventing a Central Bank inquiry over suspected contravention of insurance regulations at the company.

Pending the outcome, Liam McCaffrey and Kevin Lunny want injunctions halting the inquiry, due to start in April, into whether people involved in the management of Quinn Insurance Limited participated in the suspected contravention. The judicial review proceedings have been brought against the Central Bank, Ireland and the Attorney General.

Micheal P O’Higgins SC, for both applicants, said the challenge has been brought on grounds including alleged delay, bias and prejudgment.

Mr Justice Richard Humphreys granted the ex-parte application to bring the proceedings and returned the matter to later this week.