(1) An application for an authorisation shall -

(a) subject to subsection (2), be made in writing by a member of the Garda Síochána not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner (in this Part referred to as "the applicant"),

(b) include sufficient information to enable the Minister to determine whether the conditions specified in section 20(2) are met in relation to the authorisation being applied for, and

(c) include a statement by the applicant that he or she has reasonable grounds for believing that a serious threat exists.

(2)

(a) The Minister, where he or she is satisfied that the case is one of exceptional urgency, may consider an application under this section that is made orally.

(b) Where paragraph (a) applies, the applicant concerned shall, as soon as possible, confirm the application in writing to the Minister.

(3) The Minister shall consider an application under this section and shall make any inquiries he or she thinks necessary for that purpose.