Mr. Simon O'Brien:

I thank the Deputy for his questions. As the Taoiseach and others have called for clarity, let us be clear on some of the issues involved. The Deputy continues to use the word "bug". The first threat was a piece of existing technology that the staff of GSOC had both purchased and installed. It was not the device that was suspicious but the activity it was undertaking. We need to be clear on that point.

The second threat was anomalous or suspicious activity on my conference call. That is not a bug, but it could be something that comes in from the outside.

The third threat was some form of external scanner. It is really important that we try to get our language right and in this session I will be completely open with members, as I should, and try to give as much information as I can. I am concerned that because of this matter, we are talking about covert policing methodologies that would not necessarily or normally be in the public domain. Already we are starting to talk about issues that could be of advantage to both criminal networks and terrorist organisations. I want to be very clear that there may be certain things on which I will limit my language and some of the knowledge I have.

In response to the question of resignation, I have considered my position personally. I considered my position when I went to speak to the Minister and I considered my position with my colleagues because towards the end of this particular investigation I leave the two good people alongside me as culpable and liable for some of the activities I have undertaken. That is the reason I am very clear that I have taken the decisions I have taken. I have considered my position. When I went to see the Minister and the Secretary General, it was pleasing that they did not immediately call for my head. Equally, when I called on the Garda Commissioner, Martin Callinan, he said I had made and taken operational decisions; that I had made and taken decisions that were very difficult. I thought it was a very positive offer for the Garda Commissioner to say it might be wise for him, Martin Callinan and me, Simon O'Brien to move forward. I would like to see the other side of this crisis. I would like to lead the organisation to the other side of it. If Deputies and Senators, the President and the people of Ireland lack confidence in me as chairman of GSOC and I indicate that my position is then untenable to try to lead the organisation to the other side of the crisis, then, of course, I will go.