Irish government alters Coast Guard search and rescue tender

The Irish government has updated a tender seeking a new operator for the Irish Coast Guard’s search and rescue (SAR) services, due to concerns over the number of helicopters stipulated.

The updated tender now specified that the new operator maintains the current level of four helicopter bases, ‘to reflect the existing configuration.’

A revised Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) has been released, with an extended deadline of midday on 11 February 2022. Under the original tender, potential bidders were expected to submit a PQQ by 26 January.

Ensuring the even distribution of state services and investment

The original tender, which was published at the start of this year, specified a minimum requirement of three helicopters and one fixed wing aircraft. However, Coast Guard services under current operator CHC Ireland employ five helicopters across four bases, at Dublin, Waterford, Shannon and Sligo. This led to fears that one of the existing bases could be lost due to a potential reduction in helicopters under the next contract, which is due to be awarded next year.

According to a statement by the Department of Transport: “The amendment will ensure the delivery of wider government policies concerning balanced and even distribution of state services and investment.”

The original tender released by the Ministry of Transport outlined a planned €800 million contract which would run until at least 2032, with a further three-year extension option until 2035. It is uncertain whether the new four base stipulation will affect the expected cost of the final contract.