Search and Rescue Service Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 April 2021

Thursday, 22 April 2021

Ceisteanna (20)

Ged Nash

Ceist:

20. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Transport his views on the comments made by the head of the Irish Coast Guard (details supplied) with regard to the awarding of the search and rescue contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20950/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

Transparency is a fundamental element of public procurement processes.  In the interests of ensuring transparency for all parties potentially interested in the Irish Coastguard Search and Rescue Aviation Project, my Department posts all relevant communications on the process on our dedicated webpage (Irish Coast Guard: Search and Rescue (SAR) Aviation Project) and on etenders.ie.  Full details regarding the procurement process can be found at those locations.  The project is an on-going confidential process which will ultimately lead to a Government decision on a successor contract award.  It would not be appropriate for me to comment on, or respond to, views of interested third parties, who have offered views in various media. 

I should highlight that Mr. Chris Reynolds is not currently serving as Director of the Irish Coast Guard and has not had any role in relation to this project.