A former long serving Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) officer is running intelligence operations for the controversial private investigation company Thompson and Clark. This includes the tracking and monitoring of ex-members of the Exclusive Brethren as reported by Radio New Zealand yesterday. Thompson and Clark was blacklisted by government agencies two years ago. A two-year investigation carried out by investigative reporter Nicky Hagar for RNZ has looked into the operations of Thompson and Clark. Company emails released under the Official Information Act (OIA) reveal the existence of a "collection manager", in charge of surveillance and other intelligence gathering. In one email the collection manager is identified as "Gerry." He heads the company's intelligence "Fusion Centre", overseeing "covert surveillance" and sending their clients "threat assessments" and "situation reports" on target members of the public - all language and methods imported from intelligence agencies. A spokesperson for the SIS says the law does not allow it to dictate the employment choices of former staff. Radio New Zealand asked NZSIS director Rebecca Kitteridge if she knew the former NZSIS officer was employed by Gavin Clark to spy on citizens such as the ex-Exclusive Brethren members; and if she approved of a former senior agent using spy methods against community groups for a company like Thompson and Clark. She did not answer. A written statement from the SIS said "NZSIS staff gain a broad range of skills and experience which can be applied to other career opportunities. However neither the legislation, nor the NZSIS can dictate the future employment choices staff make when they leave us." We also approached the Justice Minister Kris Faafoi for comment. The Minister declined our invitation for an interview. We received this response from his office. "The Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Act requires that private investigators are suitably qualified and do not behave in ways which are contrary to the public interest. Private investigators must be licensed and act in accordance with licensing requirements, including the Code of Conduct for surveillance of individuals." In addition his office said " Private investigators must operate in accordance with the law like anyone else. If they break the law, they can be subject to civil or criminal action like any other person". Gavin Clark of Thompson and Clark says his company has "always strived to operate within the law and the rules and regulations of our industry".