“In 1996, the FBI had hired 36 IRSs [Intelligence Research Specialists] in an effort to bolster its international terrorism analytical program. According to witnesses, within a year approximately half of the IRSs had left the program. By mid-1999, there were only approximately 15 international terrorism IRSs, and by mid-2000 there were only 10 IRSs devoted to counterterrorism analysis. Former IRS managers confirmed to us that only one IRS was assigned to UBL [Usama Bin Laden] matters in 2001, but she transferred to another unit in July 2001. Thus, in the summer of 2001 when the Phoenix EC [Electronic Communication] was received, no IRS was assigned to work on Bin Laden matters.” [The 15th of the month used for date sorting purposes only.]
– “A Review of the FBI’s Handling of Intelligence Information Prior to the September 11 Attacks,” Office of the Inspector General in the U.S. Department of Justice, Nov. 2004, Page 87