[JMT1985]

Globally it not working out for the US broadcasters makes sense. Doesn't Original local content peform better in most markets supplemented with US content?

It really depends if things could be rationalised 

If it were to happen but it would effetely add a new ITV region, it would add a slight increase to advertising revenue less revenue generated by affiliation. 

Saroview would be problematic with HD, from what I can tell, VMTV channels are in 3/4 SD resolution at 544x576. ITV has been very much pro HD in the last couple of years, would they want the costs associated With SD broadcasting in a small market. 

Continuity from London? lack of Irish accents might be problematic.

ITVX would need to be reengineered to remove geoblocking and allow for displaying of prices in euros. sounds easy but actually requires a lot of technical changes and additional platforms to support.

I imagine the Irish Government would want a fair-sized list of cast-iron guarantees of commitments to investment in Irish content, Irish continuity and probably studios in Ireland for it to go ahead.  

I would have thought ITV would target buying the two STV franchises, and gain total control of Channel 3 in the UK, before looking at Ireland to be honest.

From what I know of the current ITV, they have no interest at all in buying channels in Ireland - ITV are focused on their UK business first and foremost. Selling content to VM channels is the preferred option for them, less hassle.