Request for Tender for the supply of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Transponders to the Irish Coast Guard

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

Buyer Title CPV / category Estimated value Per-year Procedure type Lots Location Contract length Submission deadline Go-live / start |-----------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------|------------------|----------|----------------|------|----------|------------------|-------------------------------|------------------| Department of Transport Request for Tender for the supply of Automatic Identification System (AIS) Transponders to the Irish Coast Guard Telecoms & Networks €400,000 not stated Open procedure not stated not stated 6 months 17/10/2024 15:00 not stated

2. Scope of Work

The contract involves the supply of thirty (30) Automatic Identification System (AIS) shore-side Base Stations to the Irish Coast Guard. The successful contractor will be responsible for ensuring that all equipment supplied is CE approved and suitable for use within the European Union, conforming to relevant EU Directives concerning Electromagnetic Compatibility.

Key activities include:

• Supply of Equipment: Delivery of 30 AIS shore-side Base Stations.
• Compliance Documentation: Provision of documentation demonstrating CE approval and compliance with EU Directives.
• Technical Standards: Adherence to technical specifications outlined in Appendix 1 of the RFT.
• Delivery Timeline: All equipment must be delivered within the contract term of 6 months.
• Post-Delivery Support: Potential for ongoing support or maintenance, although specifics are not detailed in the RFT.

The contractor must ensure that the equipment is delivered in accordance with the specifications and within the stipulated timeframe, maintaining quality and compliance throughout the process.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is initiated by the Department of Transport to enhance the operational capabilities of the Irish Coast Guard. The AIS transponders are critical for maritime safety and navigation, aligning with national maritime policy and safety regulations. The decision to procure these systems is driven by the need for updated technology to improve monitoring and response capabilities in Irish waters. There is no mention of an incumbent supplier, indicating a potential opportunity for new entrants in the market.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum annual turnover of €800,000 (excluding VAT) for each of the last 3 financial years.
• Insurance:
• Employer’s Liability: €12.7m
• Public Liability: €6.5m
• Product Liability: €6.5m
• Professional Indemnity: €1m on any one claims basis
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Not specified for this tender.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

Bidders must provide evidence of meeting these criteria through appropriate documentation as part of their tender submission.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The evaluation will follow the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) principle, focusing on a balance between price and quality. There are no minimum scoring thresholds specified for individual criteria.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documentation:

• Method statement / response document: Complete the named template, adhering to any page limits specified.
• CVs: Provide CVs for key personnel, limited to 2 pages each.
• Pricing schedule: Complete the specified pricing template.
• Case studies: Include 2 case studies demonstrating relevant experience, with values ranging from €200,000 to €400,000.
• Declarations: Submit the European Single Procurement Document (eESPD), Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not applicable for this tender.
• Submission portal: All submissions must be made via the eTenders portal, following specific format rules.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term: The Goods Contract will be issued for a term of 6 months.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made in accordance with the Goods Contract, with specific terms outlined in Appendix 5.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Not specified in the documents.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified in the documents.
• Termination clauses: The contract may be terminated with 14 days' notice by either party.
• IP ownership: Not specified in the documents.
• Sub-contracting rules: Subcontracting is permitted, but the Prime Contractor must be designated prior to contract award.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• The turnover requirement of €800,000 may limit participation to established firms, potentially excluding smaller businesses.
• The lack of specified past experience or personnel requirements may lead to variability in bid quality.
• The contract's short duration of 6 months may not provide sufficient time for bidders to recoup investment in equipment and support.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for SMEs with the following characteristics:

• Credible bidders: Firms with experience in telecommunications and supply of technical equipment, particularly those with a proven track record in similar projects.
• Consortium/sub-contracting: Allowed, enabling smaller firms to partner with larger entities to meet requirements.
• Indicative bid-prep effort: Estimated at 10-15 days for preparation, including documentation and compliance checks.
• Pwin signal: The absence of an incumbent supplier may provide an opportunity for new entrants, although the turnover requirement may favor established firms.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: 20241001 AIS_Base_Stations_RFT_FINAL.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: GoodsRFT150124
• Contact email: Not specified; use the messaging facility on eTenders.
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 1: Requirements and Specifications
• Appendix 2: Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 3: Tenderer’s Statement