Andrew Walsh, Anthony Flynn, Larry Hickey, Noel Browne and Raymond Heney have been found guilty of engaging in an anti-competitive concerted practice contrary to sections 4 and 6 of the Competition Act 2002 (as amended).

The offences occurred in respect of a tender competition for the provision of publicly-funded school transport services across the south-west region.

These practices, also known as “bid-rigging” or collusive tendering, undermine fair competition and have the potential to increase costs for the taxpayer and limit choice for consumers.

Following a trial which began before Mr Justice David Keane in the Central Criminal Court last month, a jury of three women and seven men today handed down unanimous verdicts.

The five defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on 23 March 2026.

The prosecutions were brought following an investigation by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), which welcomed the outcome of the trial as a significant milestone in the enforcement of competition law in Ireland.

Brian McHugh, chair of the CCPC, said: “Cartels have a hugely detrimental effect on competition, on law-abiding businesses, and ultimately on taxpayers and consumers, who face paying higher prices and reduced choice.   

“Today’s verdict sends a clear message that anti-competitive behaviour will not be tolerated.

“It’s a reminder to anyone involved in cartel conduct, or considering it, that the CCPC remains committed to taking robust action against such practices to protect fair competition and consumers.”