The media group headed by billionaire Denis O'Brien, and British group Emap will have to provide more information to the competition watchdog on Communicorp's acquisition of Emap's Irish radio assets.
The Competition Authority said today it has extended its first stage investigation into the proposed acquisition as the information in submissions is insufficient to determine if the merger the merger should be put into effect at this stage.
'As a result of this request the Phase 1 investigation period, which usually lasts one month, has been stopped and will be reset to a new appropriate date once the parties fully comply with the request', the Competition Authority said.
In July, Mr O'Brien's firm paid €200m for TodayFM, FM104 and Highland Radio to UK group Emap.
The deal will make the group the second biggest broadcaster in Ireland.
