EU and competition

William Fry LLP

William Fry LLP remains at the forefront of merger control, including advising on phase 2 investigations by the CCPC. The firm also has an established presence in state aid, public procurement, trade and regulatory law, along with investigations and litigation (including follow-on damages actions). It has extensive industry coverage, particularly in the media sector. Cormac Little SC has an outstanding reputation, a true leader in the market, while Claire Waterson remains noted for state aid, public procurement and regulatory matters, with Sheila Tormey recognised for merger control, follow-on damages actions and regulatory issues.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘William Fry have an excellent understanding of the complex regulatory landscape and a commitment to delivering strategic, results-oriented advice.’
‘Their ability to give sound practical advice taking into account all of the various stakeholders and nuances of our particular industry.’
‘William Fry has a diverse skill set and a highly capable team with years of experience across a variety of competition matters. They are an inclusive, collaborative group that works closely with clients, consistently striving to secure the best possible outcomes from regulators.’
‘Sheila Tormey is a recognised leader in the field, consistently demonstrating her deep expertise and strategic insight. She leverages her extensive experience to guide clients through complex and challenging situations, providing clear, effective solutions. Sheila is relied upon for her commitment and dedication, she always goes the extra mile to deliver exceptional results, ensuring that her clients are well-supported every step of the way.’
‘What makes this practice unique is that they are extremely knowledgeable and respond quickly and flexible with our queries on competition law matters, which suits our business. They are thorough, cover all the bases and our business appreciates this approach.’
‘The stand out partner is Cormac Little as he takes a very useful commercial approach as well as providing very valuable legal advice in a way that the business / commercial environment can digest and understand. Cormac is extremely collaborative in his style and our business enjoy working with him.’
‘Sheila Tormey, a partner in William Fry's competition team, led the work. Sheila got to the bottom of the issues quickly and managed the matter with great efficiency. Her advice was clear, pragmatic and strategic.’
‘Cormac Little SC is one of the superstars of the Irish market who I would thoroughly recommend. Thoughtful yet commercial advice - delivered on time and on budget.’

Key clients

Coimisiún na Meán (Media Commission)
Thorntons Recycling
Kilsaran Concrete
The Irish Times
Uniphar
Dense Air Ireland
EirGrid
Softbank
Beacon Hospital
The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications/DECC
Loch Garman Harbour Mussels
TL Mussels
Crescent Seafood
River Bank Mussels
WD Shellfish
Fjord Fresh Mussels
SOLAS
Aurivo
Premier Lotteries Ireland

Work highlights

Appointed in May 2023 to advise Coimisiún na Meán, the newly-established body responsible for regulating broadcasters and online media, in its design and implementation of a new regulatory regime for online safety.
Advised KIlsaran Concrete in connection with a merger control investigation into the construction products sector.
Advised the Irish Times on the sale of its majority stake in WKW FM.

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