Updated 09.25
Two men have been killed following a road traffic collision on the N80 Portlaoise to Carlow road. It happened between a van and a motorcycle close to Arles in Co Laois at about 6am.
The driver and passenger of the motorcycle - believed to be aged in their late 20s or 30s - were fatally injured in the collision.
The van driver was taken to The Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise, but is not thought to be seriously injured.
The road at the scene is closed and diversions are in place.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the incident or anyone who was on the N80 between 5:30am and 6am to contact them at Portlaoise garda station on 057-8674100.
Co. Laois; Serious collision N80 (Portlaoise/Carlow Rd) near Arles, Co.Laois. Road closed, diversions in place via Newtown Cross.
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) July 25, 2014