(1) Where the Commission -

(a) has been notified of a merger or acquisition under section 18(1), 18(3), 18(3A), 18(12A) or 18A, and

(b) considers it appropriate to do so due to the risk that the merger or acquisition may have an effect on competition in any markets for goods or services in the State,

it may impose an interim measure on one or more undertakings involved in the merger or acquisition.

(2) Where the Commission imposes an interim measure under subsection (1) it shall by notice in writing served on the undertaking on which the measure is imposed -

(a) set out the nature of the interim measure or interim measures imposed, and

(b) specify the period for which the interim measure shall remain in force, which may include such period as is required for the Commission to make a determination under section 21 or section 22 in relation to the merger or acquisition.