Kenny had to take ‘personal command’

The Garda bugging scandal represents such a threat to State security Enda Kenny was forced to take “personal command” of the situation, Finance Minister Michael Noonan revealed.

The tapping of telephone calls to and from Garda stations for up to 25 years could have serious implications for major court cases during that period.

Mr Noonan insisted that the situation was so serious, the Government had no option but to set up a commission of inquiry.