As a new era of Search and Rescue (SAR) in Ireland draws closer people are being given a first-hand look at the new AW189 helicopter which will be delivering life-saving operations across the country. The aircraft is one element of a new contract which will see Bristow Ireland provide the Irish Coast Guard with aviation support from four bases – Waterford, Weston, Sligo and Shannon. Ahead of the transition getting underway, Bristow Ireland crews have been touring the country, introducing key stakeholders to the new helicopter type.
“Over the last few days we have visited key locations and teams across the country,” said Bristow Ireland Director, Philip Bartlett. “The fleet of AW189 aircraft will become a very familiar sight to many as we transition them into the new IRCG contract. Ahead of operations getting underway, it’s important we let some of our colleagues across the emergency services know more about it.
“Our teams are just one part of the Irish SAR network, and working seamlessly with our Coast Guard colleagues at the RCCs and volunteer members, as well as emergency services including fire service, mountain rescue, RNLI and Community Inshore Rescue Boat units is critical, so as we prepare to start operations we are taking the opportunity to give stakeholders an introduction to its capabilities.”
Bristow Ireland crews dropped in at the Irish Coast Guard Marine Rescue Co-ordination Sub-centres (MRSC) at Malin, Valentia and also visited the Irish Lights refuelling site landing site at Blacksod and Castletownbere giving local people and emergency services a first-hand introduction to the aircraft. The crew also spent some time with the Dublin Fire Brigade Marine Incident Response Group (MIRG), practising loading and unloading the special equipment.
“A safe and effective SAR network needs different elements to work together in harmony,” said Phillip Bartlett. “The Dublin Fire Brigade MIRG is one important group who we are looking forward to working alongside for years to come as we start to phase in new technology and new equipment to continuously grow and develop this vital service.”
The transition to the new contract will get underway this autumn, with new aircraft and equipment coming online throughout 2025.
