Government seeks new operator for €800m search and rescue helicopter service

The current 10-year contract for the Coast Guard's search and rescue helicopter service elapses next year. File Picture: Andy Gibson

A new €800m competitive tender for the Coast Guard search and rescue (SAR) helicopter service has been published by the Government.

The contract will see an operator for the search and rescue service appointed by the Department of Transport for a period of 10 years, with the option to extend for a further three.