An investigation has been launched after 11 greyhounds were found dead on board an Irish Ferries ship.

The Herald reports that the dogs were discovered in cages in a van on the Oscar Wilde ferry on Monday afternoon, just before the Cherbourg destination was reached.

A vet who examined the bodies of the greyhounds determined that they had smothered during the 14 hour journey from Rosslare to Cherbourg.

The Department of Agriculture is currently investigating the discovery.

It is believed the dogs may have travelled from Tipperary before boarding the ship in Rosslare.

Irish Ferries say were not aware that the animals were onboard.