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CCPC to scrutinise data-centre deal

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is to carry out a full Phase 2 investigation into the proposed purchase of BT Datacentres Ireland by Equinix (Ireland). 

Equinix operates six data centres in Dublin, which provide digital infrastructure for cloud, IT, finance, content and media-service providers.

BT Datacentres Ireland also provides data centres, including two in CityWest and Ballycoolin, in Dublin.

Harmful effects

Under competition law, the CCPC must assess certain mergers and acquisitions in order to prevent harmful effects on competition in Ireland and the potential impact of mergers and acquisitions on consumers, such as changes to price, consumer choice, quality and innovation.  

This proposed transaction was notified to the CCPC on 10 January.

Following a preliminary examination, the CCPC has now decided a full investigation is needed.  

Anyone who wishes to make a submission on the proposed deal should do so by email to mergers@ccpc.ie by 4.30pm on 28 May.