Operator of the National Emergency Call Answering Service

Tender description

In advance of the expiration of the current contract for the operation of the Emergency Call Answering Service (ECAS) on 24 November 2025, the Department is undertaking this Procurement for the appointment of a new entity or entities to operate the ECAS. Although the Current Contract is due to expire on 24 November 2025, there are provisions in the Current Contract to allow for the Minister to extend the contract for a further two (2) years. The ECAS is responsible for answering all emergency communications, providing a vital link between the individual contacting the ECAS and the Emergency Services which include Garda, Fire, Ambulance and the Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) or, in emergencies involving aircraft, the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). Emergency communication is defined in the S.I. No. 444/2022 as communication by means of interpersonal communications services between an end-user and the Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) with the goal to request and receive emergency relief from emergency services. The role of ECAS is to establish which Emergency Service is being requested and the location of where the Emergency Services are required to attend for the purpose of routing the call to the most appropriate Emergency Services Control centre. Bidders should note that it is anticipated that, during the currency of the within procurement competition, the responsibility for Communications will transfer to another nominated Government Minister in accordance with the Programme for Government 2025. All references to the Contracting Authority shall be deemed to include reference to the relevant minister with responsibility for Communications at the relevant time as the context so requires and admits.