TV3 says its takeover of UTV Ireland may result in unavoidable redundancies at the station.

The commercial broadcaster, which is owned by Virgin Media, says it has completed the acquisition of UTV Ireland.

The company has confirmed it will have three free-to-air TV channels operating under the TV3 Group.

TV3 also announced a restructuring programme to consolidate the two businesses into one.

UTV Ireland currently employs 61 permanent staff. TV3 says it has 40 open vacancies - many of which it hopes will be filled by current UTV staff.

"The proposed changes may result in unavoidable redundancies in UTV Ireland but where possible, staff will be offered redeployment opportunities within TV3", Virgin Media says.

The company will enter into a 30-day consultation period, and it is says it expects "various steps associated with this plan" will be completed by January 2017.

As part of the deal, UTV Ireland will move from Macken House to TV3's headquarters in Ballymount.

The UTV Ireland channel will also rebrand over the coming weeks.

Pat Kiely, managing director of TV3, said: "Today's announcement strengthens independent television broadcasting in Ireland by bringing together great channels and great content under the one roof.

"The combined TV3 Group business is now better equipped to compete against significant local and international broadcasters.

"We can now also play an increasingly bigger role in the development of Irish originated production and broadcasting. I am confident that our new three channel structure will drive the future potential and long term growth of the business."