Biosecurity review of Deenis and Scariff Islands Co.Kerry

Tender description

The Provision of a Biosecurity Review, incorporating detailed seabird and invasive mammal surveys, of Deenish Island and Scariff Island, Co Kerry. Background and summary of requirements: The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is responsible for the conservation of biological diversity in Ireland. Deenish Island and Scariff Islands (which are also designated as an SPA (004175)) are of particular importance for several breeding seabirds including Manx Shearwater and Storm Petrel. It is now well established that the colonisation of invasive species, including but not limited to American Mink and Brown Rat, can cause significant damage to island based breeding seabird populations. The primary focus of this biosecurity review is to address all relevant aspects of both Deenish Island and Scariff Islands with particular attention to their population of breeding seabirds. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage now invites tenders for provision of a Biosecurity Review, including direct field surveys and detailed Eradication Plans, of Deenish and Scariff Islands and in particular their breeding seabird populations. A detailed specification of the Department’s technical requirements is set out in Appendix I of the Tender below. A strict schedule of deliverables will be agreed with the successful Tenderer, with the contract expected to commence in April and conclude by October 2021. Health and Safety It should be noted that this study will involve work in the marine environment and on offshore islands. Areas of the islands can be difficult or challenging terrain to operate in.