GARDAI (police) are reviewing all contracts given to civilian garages which service its fleet after a mechanic, who was returning from a trip to Britain, was found with bugging equipment.Up to two dozen cars used by Special Branch detectives have been recalled for examination after the discovery during a routine search at Dublin Port.It's not illegal to possess the equipment but, because of the nature of his contracted work with the force, Commissioner Fachtna Murphy -- whose own car, his colleagues believe, could have been bugged -- immediately ordered the probe.Investigators are seriously concerned that sensitive information could have been leaked to criminals or terrorist organizations.The garage which employed the man questioned at the airport is also being investigated.Some contractors carry out the work at Garda Headquarters in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, while others do the work at their own premises. A detailed background check of all companies and their employees is to be undertaken to ensure that security is not compromised.The probe by members of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation and local officers could take months to conclude.A senior Garda source said that cars recalled for examination include a number that were serviced by the man found with the bugging gear or by colleagues at the company which employs him. Other contract garages are also under investigation.The practice of outsourcing servicing and repairs of Garda vehicles is relatively new, having been introduced only in the last few years as dedicated Garda mechanics were reassigned to operational duties as part of the civilianization of the force.The Garda Press Office said it could not confirm if employees of the companies were vetted for previous convictions or links with criminal gangs. But it said an investigation was ongoing.No work on Garda cars is being carried out by the man who was found in possession of the spy equipment at the airport, pending completion of the investigation which could take several months.His gear was detected in a routine search. He was not specifically targeted and he has no previous convictions.The incident has, however, raised concerns about potential security breaches arising from civilians working with Gardai.