Public Relations, Media Relations and Crisis Communication Services for AirNav Ireland

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

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The contract requires the provision of Public Relations, Media Relations, and Crisis Communication Services for AirNav Ireland. The services are to be delivered over an initial three-year term, with a potential extension of one additional 12-month period.

The core activities encompass:

• Strategic Communications: Developing and implementing public relations strategies to support AirNav Ireland's objectives.
• Media Relations: Managing relationships with media outlets, responding to press inquiries, and proactively pitching stories.
• Crisis Communication: Developing and executing communication plans during incidents or emergencies, ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Supporting communication efforts with various stakeholders relevant to air navigation services.
• Content Creation: Developing press releases, statements, speeches, and other communication materials.
• Media Monitoring and Analysis: Tracking media coverage and providing insights.
• Advisory Services: Providing expert advice on communication strategies and potential reputational risks.

AirNav Ireland operates air traffic management and related services within Irish-controlled airspace. The company was established on 2nd February 2023, separating these functions from The Irish Aviation Authority. It employs approximately 620 staff and adheres to international standards set by organisations including ICAO, EASA, and EUROCONTROL.

The services will be required across AirNav Ireland's operational sites, which include:

• The Times Building, 11-12 D’Olier Street, Dublin 2, D02 T449
• Dublin Area Control Centre and Control Tower, Huntstown, Cloghran, Co. Dublin
• Shannon Area Control Centre, Ballycasey Cross, Shannon, Co. Clare
• Control Tower Cork Airport, Liberty Stream, Upper Ballygarvan, Co. Cork
• Control Tower, Shannon Airport, Shannon, Co. Clare
• North Atlantic Communications Centre, Ballygirreen, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare

The contract is for a three-year term, with the Contracting Authority reserving the right to extend the term for one additional period of 12 months based on performance.

3. Background & buyer context

AirNav Ireland was incorporated on 2nd February 2023, following a State decision to establish it as a commercial semi-State company. This move separated air traffic management functions from The Irish Aviation Authority. The company is a Designated Activity Company (DAC) with shares held by the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Plan Delivery and Reform, and the Minister for Transport.

The procurement is driven by the need for professional Public Relations, Media Relations, and Crisis Communication Services to support AirNav Ireland's operational and strategic objectives. As a newly established entity with significant national and international responsibilities in air navigation, effective communication is critical for its reputation, stakeholder engagement, and operational transparency. The services will support AirNav Ireland's adherence to international aviation standards and its role within the European aviation framework.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:

• Turnover requirement:
• Minimum average annual turnover of €200,000.
• Tenderers must provide turnover details for the three most recent financial years, with the latest accounts not older than 12 months from the tender submission date.
• Separate turnover details are required for the Prime Contractor and any Sub-Contractors being proposed.
• Tenderers must list their top six customers and indicate revenue percentages related to this tender requirement.
• Insurance:
• Employer’s Liability: €13,000,000
• Public Liability: €6,500,000
• Professional Indemnity: €2,600,000
• Tenderers must confirm they will obtain and hold these insurances from the contract's effective date and that policy limits cover the Republic of Ireland.
• Certifications:
• Tenderers must provide details of conformance, if any, to the ISO 9000 series or any equivalent standard or system.
• Past experience:
• Tenderers must demonstrate a high level of experience in Public Relations Services.
• Three examples of current contracts for the service being tendered for must be provided as references. These should be of similar size and nature.
• Personnel:
• Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints:
• Insurance policies must include the Republic of Ireland within their territorial limits and jurisdiction.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The evaluation of tenders will be conducted in two stages: compliance check, selection criteria, and then award criteria. Only compliant tenders that meet the selection criteria will be evaluated against the award criteria. The award will be made on the basis of the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT).

Criterion Weight (%) Sub-criteria