2022 Act Enters Into Force – New Irish Merger Control Powers

On 27 September 2023, the Competition (Amendment) Act 2022 (the "2022 Act") will enter into force following the recent publication of the much-anticipated commencement order regarding the 2022 Act. While the primary focus of the 2022 Act is to enhance the competition enforcement powers of the Irish competition authorities, the 2022 Act also gives the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission ("CCPC") additional merger control powers relating to M&A transactions that may have significant implications for Irish merger clearance analyses and strategies.

In this Insight, we examine the key reforms to the Irish merger control regime and implications for parties undertaking M&A in Ireland.