(1) A special intervention unit formed under section 94B shall be established for a specific purpose and a limited period of time which may be extended, if the circumstances so require, for such period or periods as may be agreed by the competent authority and the other competent authority concerned.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), the competent authority may terminate the provision of assistance when -

(a) the purpose for which the assistance was agreed has been served, or

(b) no further benefit is likely to accrue from the continued operation of the special intervention unit.

(3) Subject to subsection (1), a special intervention unit may operate in the State or in a member state, as the case may be, for so long as it is necessary to do so for the purpose of dealing with the crisis situation for which the unit was established.

(4) A special intervention unit operating in the State shall do so in a supporting capacity to the law enforcement authorities of the State and shall operate -

(a) under the responsibility, authority and direction of the Garda Commissioner,