The Government has announced a new contract for the Search and Rescue helicopter service across the country.
This contract is worth six hundred and seventy million euros, excluding VAT, over 10 years.
The previous contract was run by CHC, a Canadian company, and included search and rescue services out of Waterford Airport.
The new contract has been awarded to Bristow, a British company with headquarters in Aberdeen.
The contract will provide for the day and night-time operation of four helicopter bases in Sligo, Shannon, Waterford and Dublin.
There will also be, for the first time, a fixed wing aircraft element which may include the Air Corps 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.
