Update: In a statement this evening, Rob Tatten, CHC’s Director of Operations and Accountable Manager Ireland said: “It is with regret that we learned today that CHC Ireland were unsuccessful in our bid to retain the IRCG Search and Rescue Aviation Contract for the next 10 years. CHC have served the people of Ireland for 20 plus years with great distinction.
All of our staff have given 100% commitment to The IRCG and Ireland. Many have been recognised for their life saving missions with International bravery awards. We thank all our staff for their unflinching commitment to their duty. There will be no further comment at this time.”
The Government has announced that it has accepted a recommendation from the Minister of Transport Eamon Ryan TD and Minister of State Jack Chambers TD to offer the next Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) search and rescue aviation (SAR) contract to Bristow Ireland Limited.
The contract will provide for the day and night-time operation of four helicopter bases in Sligo, Shannon, Waterford and Dublin. In addition to the helicopter service, the new Coast Guard aviation service will, for the first time, also include a fixed wing aircraft element.
Subject to contract, the new IRCG aviation service contract will cost approximately €670million (excluding VAT) and will run for 10 years in the case of the helicopter service and five years in the case of fixed wing element of the service, with options to extend both services out to 13 years. The contract makes provision for the Air Corps to provide the fixed wing element of the service after five years.
The preferred bidder was selected following a comprehensive procurement project undertaken by the Department of Transport that included an initial market engagement process, a prequalifying process, an initial Request for Tender, a negotiation process, and final evaluation of a Best and Final Offer Tender from the shortlisted bidders.
“Over the coming weeks the Department of Transport will be working with the preferred bidder to finalise contracts. Further information will be provided in due course,” the statement said.
We are honoured to learn that the Irish Department of Transport has confirmed Bristow Ireland as the preferred bidder to provide the next Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) search & rescue aviation (SAR) contract. https://t.co/nw0I3nE4JN press release here: https://t.co/HPbwlAES3O pic.twitter.com/NQ56Wq1gom
— Bristow Group (@Bristow_Group) May 30, 2023
