The Irish Coast Guard, which named Bristow Ireland as its preferred bidder at the end of May, has now signed a 10-year contract with the company, which will see it provide SAR cover in the form of six SAR-configured AW189s from four bases around the country. In addition to the rotary assets, the contract calls for the provision of two Beechcraft King Airs for SAR and environmental monitoring.
The selection has created some controversy following a challenge by the incumbent supplier CHC who lodged a suit with the High Court in Dublin alleging irregularities in the bid process. However, the court rejected the case, allowing the contract to be concluded. In addition, there had been concerns over job security, but Bristow Ireland has said that it will create or sustain 150 jobs in Ireland as a result of the new contract.
The contract calls for the transition to commence from the fourth quarter of next year for a 10-year term with annual extensions to a maximum of 13 years permitted.
“The entire team at Bristow Ireland Limited is honoured to be chosen to deliver this critical and life-saving public service for the people of Ireland,” said Alan Corbett, Bristow’s Chief Operating Officer, Government Services, commenting on the signing. “We look forward to collaborating closely with the Irish Department of Transport, Irish Coast Guard and all stakeholders as we prepare to deliver this critical public service.”
