DUBLIN - BlackRock (NYSE: BLK ), Inc. has disclosed a 2.43% ownership position in Dalata Hotel Group plc, according to a regulatory filing published Tuesday. The investment management firm reported holding 5,148,439 ordinary shares in the Irish hotel operator, based on an Irish Takeover Panel disclosure form. The filing also revealed BlackRock holds short positions equivalent to 0.57% of Dalata's shares through cash-settled derivatives. The disclosure, required under Rule 8.3 of the Irish Takeover Panel Act when a party holds interests in relevant securities representing 1% or more, detailed several recent transactions. On July 14, BlackRock purchased a total of 26,313 Dalata shares in three separate transactions at prices ranging from €6.54 to €6.55 per share. Dalata Hotel Group is Ireland's largest hotel operator with a portfolio of properties across Ireland and the United Kingdom, operating primarily under the Clayton and Maldron brands.