CHC Ireland, which operates the Coast Guard search and rescue service, has announced that there will be a safety stand down for four all-weather search and rescue bases.
Shannon and Dublin SAR bases will be offline from 12pm to 1pm today and Sligo and Waterford will be offline from 1pm until 2pm.
The bases will be offline during these times and a reduced service will be available.
CHC said the stand down is due to increased concern for the health and wellbeing of its staff following the awarding of the search and rescue contract to Bristow Ireland Ltd, commencing in July 2025.
CHC said there has been a lack of confirmation regarding the continuity of employment under transfer of undertakings regulations (TUPE) and that this has led to elevated levels of stress among staff.
"It is incumbent on us to protect the safety and wellbeing of our staff," said Rob Tatten, CHC Director of Operations and Accountable Manager Ireland.
"By taking this necessary measure we can ensure that we continue to operate safely, without outside distractions and remain focused on the lifesaving work we do for the Irish Coast Guard," Mr Tatten said.
In June, CHC took a legal challenge against the awarding of the contract to Bristow, but in July the Court of Appeal cleared the way for the deal to proceed.
Last week, the Fórsa trade union, which represents pilots and winch crew at the Irish Coast Guard Search and Rescue Aviation Service, said it was seeking assurances from the Government over the transfer of staff under the new contract.
In response, a spokesperson for the Department of Transport said it will facilitate, support, and expects to see, an orderly and seamless transfer of operations, adding that the transition will be a gradual process with the new aviation service being introduced on a phased basis over the next 24 months.
"The department has been informed by Bristow Ireland that as part of their staffing strategy, and in order to allow the best opportunities for existing CHCI employees, Bristow Ireland will undertake a consultation and engagement process with the employees of CHCI and the recognised trade unions," the spokesperson said.
