THE value of mergers and acquisitions in Ireland plunged 70% over the past year with food, health and energy the most active sectors.

REOX may be forced back into the marketplace to seek a repeat deal offering the “compelling value” which had swung its decision to sell its Breeo division to Kerry Group.

DAIRYGOLD has had to pay back a €750,000 grant to the Welsh Assembly government, stemming from last year’s closure of its Dairygold Food Products cheese company packing plant in Wales.