Press Release: Mergers: Commission clears acquisition of Telefónica Ireland by Hutchison 3G, subject to conditions

On 28 May 2014, the European Commission approved under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of Telefónica Ireland's mobile telecommunications business (O2 Ireland) by Hutchison 3G (H3G).

The approval is conditional upon a commitments package submitted by H3G. The Commission had concerns that the merger, as initially notified, would have removed an important competitive force from the Irish mobile telecommunications market to the detriment of consumers. To address these concerns, H3G submitted commitments ensuring that new competitors will enter the mobile telecommunications market in Ireland. These commitments remove the Commission's concerns.

ESO: Background information: Mergers: Commission opens in-depth investigation into Hutchison 3G UK's acquisition of Telefónica Ireland http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-mergers-commission-opens-in-depth-investigation-into-hutchison-3g-uks-acquisition-of-telefonica-ireland/

European Commission: RAPID: MEMO/14/387: Mergers: Commission clears proposed merger between Hutchison 3G (H3G) and Telefónica Ireland (O2 Ireland) subject to conditions - frequently asked questions http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-14-387_en.pdf

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