one of Mueller's priorities in the agency's reorganization after the Sept. 11 hijackings. Fine said if the new software system -- which allows agents to directly input reports and share information instantly -- is not implemented, the FBI cannot do its job. "In sum, we believe the FBI's ability to perform its important functions effectively, including counterterrorism, counterintelligence and criminal law enforcement, will be significantly affected by its ability to implement a modern case management system," Fine wrote in the report. He said the FBI disagreed with his conclusion that there were national security implications if the FBI continued to rely on its old system. Mueller issued a statement saying he was disappointed plans for the automated case management system were delayed, but said the bureau had made substantial information technology improvements which help support its counterterrorism mission. --More 2355 Local Time 2055 GMT
