Competition Authority rules on fewer mergers due to economic downturn

THE Competition Authority made rulings on 27 mergers last year, 11 less than in 2008, according to the organisation’s latest annual report.

The number of mergers notified to the authority has fallen by 45 in the last two years, reflecting the economic downturn.

Of last year’s merger total, one full investigation was undertaken by the authority – that of the Metro/Herald free newspaper alliance, which was cleared with proposals attached. Meanwhile, the authority’s decision to block Kerry Group’s takeover of Breeo Foods was quashed by the High Court. This led to an appeal by the authority and the matter is now before the Supreme Court.