Following a competitive tender process on 22nd July 2010 a contract agreement for search and rescue helicopters was signed between the then Minister for Transport and CHC Ireland Ltd. These Helicopters respond to emergencies at sea, inland waterways, offshore islands and mountains. The helicopters are operated by CHC Ireland ltd and the fully qualified crews are employees of CHC Ireland Ltd. The helicopter service contract commenced on 1st July 2012 for a period of 10 years. The contract requires that CHC Ireland Ltd comply with all applicable Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), European Safety Agency (EASA), and international Civil Aviation organisation (ICAO) guidance, regulation, standards and recommended practises.