Rescue and Stranding Program for Marine Animals in Distress: Newfoundland and Labrador Region

Contract Duration:  August 1, 2013 – November 30, 2013, with options to renew for two additional one year periods (1 June – 30 November 2014/2015).

Objective:  Provide a 4 month (6 month), seven-day-a week, 24-hour a day emergency response to fishers and the general public who have or see marine animals entangled in fishing gear, stranded or in trouble throughout the waters of the Newfoundland and Labrador Region.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Region experiences more large marine animal entanglements than any other region of the country.  Combined with an expansive coastline and ocean area, high cetacean species diversity, widespread fishing activity, high stakeholder/public expectations and a small Non-Government Organization (NGO) community – DFO delivers a Rescue and Stranding Program for Marine Animals in Distress via a contractual arrangement.  

It aims to ensure the safe release of whales, leatherback turtles and other marine animals from fishing gear, thus providing both a direct mitigation for species currently listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and decreased damage to fishing gear.  

Enquiries: All inquiries, including clarification and questions are to be submitted in writing to the Contractual Authority:  Kim Walker at kimberly.walker@dfo-mpo.gc.ca 

It is further requested that all clarification and questions be received not later than seventy two (72) hours prior to the closing date and time.  Although every attempt will be made, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans cannot guarantee that clarification or questions received beyond this time period will be answered prior to the RFP closing date and time.

Requests will be answered by the Buyer or forwarded to the appropriate technical contact for reply.  Dependent on their nature, comments or answers will be returned via email from the Buyer or through an addendum to the RFP should the information be applicable to all Proponents.

The Crown retains the right to negotiate with suppliers on any procurement.  The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.