Minister of State Sean Canney T.D., whose portfolio includes the Irish Coast Guard, officially launched the Irish Coast Guard’s enhanced aviation service at Waterford Airport on Ireland’s south eastern coast last week. The event marked the completion of the transition of the Coast Guard’s air service provision from CHC to Bristow Ireland..
The new contract calls for 24/7 helicopter operations using six AW189s across four bases – Sligo, Shannon, Waterford and Weston Airport, Dublin. It also includes a 24/7 dedicated fixed-wing service, provided by two Beechcraft B200 King Air aircraft based in Shannon which will work as an integrated service to enhance the Coast Guard’s capacity to deliver maritime and inland Search and Rescue, environmental monitoring , aeromedical support to the offshore islands as well as other aviation support to other State entities, including the National Ambulance Service and inland Search And Rescue support to An Garda Síochána (Irish Police).
“This contract is a result of a thorough and complex procurement process undertaken by my department said Mr. Canney speaking at the base opening, “The procurement project was completed on time and within the estimated budget. Following contract award, the operation of the individual bases transitioned to Bristow Ireland on a phased basis and without any interruption to services.
The provision of six helicopters, five of which are newly built, and the addition of the fixed-wing service represents a significant boost to overall capability. The fixed wing provides an added dimension including Search and Rescue coordination, the ability to deploy life rafts, top-cover communications for longer range missions and importantly, a maritime environmental monitoring role.
“I would like to acknowledge Waterford Airport’s long-standing role in supporting helicopter Search and Rescue response”, added Canney, the location of this helicopter base complements the Shannon and Dublin bases, as well as enabling timely response to inland areas such as the Comeragh mountains. We never underestimate the vital role Search and Rescue teams play in communities across Ireland”.
Image: Irish Coast Guard
