Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

A procurement process for the Irish Coast Guard helicopter search and rescue service is currently taking place. As the process is ongoing, there are constraints on what I can say, but I will be as helpful as possible. The request for tender, which was drawn up with the assistance of various stakeholders, aims to improve the service nationally through the provision of modern helicopters that are safer and more effective than the current 40-year old Sikorsky S61s.

Bidders were required to quote for a number of alternative options in which the target level of service could be provided. Among these were a 24-hour operation at four bases; a 24-hour operation at three bases; and a 24-hour operation at three bases and a 12 hour operation at one base, the choice of which was to be made by the bidder.

A preferred bidder has now been nominated. The annual cost will increase very substantially as a result of the provision of modern helicopters, but will deliver a marked improvement in the capacity, range, speed and capability of the service. This has enabled the Government to select the option which involves 24 hour availability from three bases and 12 hour cover from one base, while still delivering the required level of service. As a result, the additional funding that will have to be found to meet the cost of the service is somewhat reduced.

There will be no change in the 24 hour availability from the Waterford base before July 2013. While a 12 hour contract is to be negotiated for the subsequent period, the Government is committed to keeping this position under review in the light of the operational requirement at Waterford and the availability of funding.

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