Benthos Sampling and Analysis

Tender description

The Marine Institute wishes to invite Applicants to submit a tender for Benthos sampling and analysis for up to 7 lots. A requirement of the Water Framework Directive is that benthic macro- invertebrates must be sampled from coastal and transitional waters at least twice within a river basin cycle (6 years) in order to classify these water bodies. In addition to a parallel programme of sampling and analysis for benthic macro- invertebrates, the Marine Institute wishes to analyse a range of other samples to which it has access. The Directive requires the sampling of all nominated coastal and transitional waters for benthic macro-invertebrates. This includes the field sampling, processing and analysis of samples. The Marine Institute has determined that an outsourced service will provide best value to the exchequer. This service will be expected to deliver the projects in a professional and comprehensive manner will have minimal reliance on the Marine Institute. The Marine Institute a semi State body, working in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, wishes to invite tenders for the outsourcing of the collection of benthic macro-invertebrates as well as collection and analysis of sediment samples at a variety of locations in a number of lots.