Challenge to Sikorsky helicopter contract

A legal challenge to the Government over the selection of a helicopter contract for the Defence Forces re-opens this morning at the High Court.

Franco-German company Eurocopter is seeking a judicial review of the Minister’s decision to award the contract to rival firm, Sikorsky.

Eurocopter claims that contract rules were changed during the process, which led to Sikorsky’s successful selection.

It also says that Sikorsky was aware of the tender prices from its competitors.

The company wants the courts to overturn the Government decision and have the €100m contract handed to them.

The Minister for Defence Michael Smith, insists he made his decision in the best interests of the taxpayer and based on the criterion that the Sikorsky helicopters were best suited to the needs of the Aer Corps.