MI-CFT26-016 - Request for Tenders for the provision of marine buoy platform mounted payload profiling winch to the Marine Institute

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 Marine Institute seeks tenders for the provision of a marine buoy platform mounted payload profiling winch. This equipment is essential for the operation and maintenance of the Irish Marine Data Buoy Observation Network and other observational infrastructures managed by the Marine Institute. The scope of work includes the design, supply, and delivery of the winch system, which must meet specific technical requirements.

Key activities include:

• Winch Specifications:

• Power supply: 12V or 24V

• Minimum line length: 50m; diameter: 8-12mm

• Load-bearing line termination with subsea connector for payload

• Maximum payload space dimensions: 500 x 500 x 500mm

• Maximum weight: 60kg

• Minimum winch payload: 50kg

• Line speed: 0.1 - 1 m/s

• Winch drum with encoder for payout readings and non-contact switch for final destination

• Interface for motor control and feedback

• Materials suitable for extended use in marine environments

• Delivery Requirements:

• Delivery is required by the end of the year in which the order is placed.

• Tenderers must confirm the date they must receive a purchase order to meet this delivery timeline.

• Quality Control:

• Evidence of adherence to high-quality standards must be provided, including relevant certifications.

• Installation and Training:

• Full installation and commissioning support is required, along with training for the operation of the equipment.

This contract aims to secure both backup hardware and new research options for the Marine Institute's ongoing marine monitoring and research activities.

3. Background & buyer context

The Marine Institute, established under the 1991 Marine Institute Act, is Ireland's scientific agency responsible for the sustainable development of the state's maritime area and resources. This procurement aligns with the Institute's mandate to support marine research and development, providing essential tools for monitoring and data collection. The current tender is driven by the need to enhance the operational capabilities of the Irish Marine Data Buoy Observation Network and to ensure the availability of reliable equipment for ongoing research initiatives.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria to be considered for evaluation:

• Turnover requirement: Not specified for this tender.
• Insurance:
• Employer’s Liability: €12.7 million
• Public Liability: €2.6 million
• Product Liability: €6.5 million
• 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 their compliance with these criteria as part of their tender submission.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The contract will be awarded based on the most economically advantageous tender, with a minimum score of 60% required in the quality criteria to proceed to financial evaluation.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents as part of their tender:

• Method statement / response document: Follow the provided template with no specified page limit.
• CVs: For key personnel involved in the project, no specified page count.
• Pricing schedule: Must be completed using the specified template.
• Case studies: Provide details of at least three comparable projects.
• Declarations: Include ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not applicable for this tender.
• Submission portal: Tenders must be submitted via the electronic postbox on www.etenders.gov.ie.

Bidders should ensure compliance with all submission format rules and deadlines.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term: The contract will be for a duration of four years.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made in accordance with the Goods Contract at Appendix 3.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Not specified for this tender.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified for this tender.
• Termination clauses: The Marine Institute reserves the right to terminate the contract under specified conditions.
• IP ownership: Not specified for this tender.
• Sub-contracting rules: The successful Tenderer must designate a single entity responsible for the contract, regardless of subcontractor involvement.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns specific to this tender include:

• Insurance requirements: The high levels of required insurance coverage may limit participation from smaller firms.
• Technical specifications: The detailed technical requirements may pose challenges for bidders without prior experience in similar projects.
• Delivery timeline: The requirement for delivery by year-end may be tight for some bidders, particularly those needing to source components.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is open to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that can demonstrate the necessary technical capabilities and insurance coverage.

• Credible bidders: Firms with experience in marine equipment supply and installation, particularly those with relevant certifications and insurance.
• Consortium/sub-contracting: Allowed, with a designated prime contractor responsible for the contract.
• Indicative bid-prep effort: Bidders should anticipate a significant effort in preparing their submissions, likely requiring several days to compile documentation and case studies.
• Pwin signal: The presence of specific technical requirements and insurance thresholds may favor established firms with prior experience in similar contracts.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: MI-CFT26-016 - Provision of marine buoy platform mounted payload Profiling Winch.docx
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified
• Contact email or clarification portal: Queries must be directed through the messaging facility on www.etenders.gov.ie.
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 1 — Requirements and Specifications
• Appendix 2 — Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 3 — Declaration as to Personal Circumstances of Tenderer