Updated 22:49
THE SECURITY COMPANY at the centre of the GSOC bugging row has said that it did not try to sell bugging equipment to An Garda Síochána.
Reports today said that Verrimus, a UK technical surveillance and privacy company had offered to sell the gardaí equipment similar to that found when Verrimus swept the GSOC offices.
The reports say that while in Dublin for the sweep, Verrimus officials attempted to sell the equipment during a demonstration to garda officials.
However, Verrimus denied that story this afternoon, saying that they are not allowed to sell the type of device they demonstrated.
“Verrimus can confirm we attended the Garda HQ on their invitation to demonstrate a number of TSCM (Technical Surveillance Counter Measures) technologies.
“Verrimus can confirm we demonstrated a number of specialist TSCM equipments on behalf of their manufacturers and agent.
In relation to the equipment demonstrated to the Garda, Verrimus demonstrates only, we do not, and can not, sell those specific equipments.
Inquiry
Meanwhile, the clamour for an independent inquiry into the affair has grown, with Fianna Fáil’s Seamus Kirk becoming the latest opposition politician to make the call.
“The issues at the heart of this controversy and the Government’s handling of it are extremely serious and must be addressed in a manner that is open, transparent and will have the confidence of the public,” said the Louth TD.
Sinn Féin’s Mary-Lou McDonald said that the legislation which governs GSOC needs to be examined.
“The existing legislation clearly presents barriers to allowing GSOC to fulfil its role as the body charged with conducting thorough, comprehensive and independent investigations into possible Garda misconduct.
“Currently GSOC does not have the power to investigate the Garda Commissioner. It is necessary that Ombudsman when conducting investigations can have oversight of and accountability from every level with an Garda Síochána, up to and including the Garda Commissioner.”
First published 17:07
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