The Proposed Acquisition of South East Broadcasting Company Limited by Associated Newspapers (Ireland) Limited

In accordance with Part 3A of the Competition Act 2002 (the Act), as amended, the Minister was notified on 26 January 2026 of the proposed acquisition of South East Broadcasting Company Limited by Associated Newspapers (Ireland) Limited. In accordance with the Act, the Department undertook a ‘Phase 1’ examination of the merger in order to determine its potential effect on the plurality of media in the state. As a result of this examination, the Minister made a determination on 25 February 2026 that the proposed media merger will not adversely affect the plurality of media in the state and, as such, that it may be put into effect.