The Data Protection Commission has launched a major probe into claims that credit unions hired private investigators to obtain personal data belonging to their customers.

The Irish Independent reports the investigators used false identities to access addresses and social welfare details from bodies including the Department of Social Protection.

That data is then said to have been provided to at least 12 credit unions for lucrative fees.

The Irish League of Credit Unions says it "condemns such practices and will work with the Data Protection Commissioners" to assist their investigations into the claims.

Niall O'Connor is Political Correspondent with the Irish Independent: