Investigation after men’s bodies recovered from canal

An investigation is under way following the discovery of two bodies in the Grand Canal in Dublin.

Gardaí say that the bodies of the two men, who were aged in their 40s, were recovered from the canal this morning. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.

It is understood that the two men were Irish nationals.

The alarm was first raised by a passer-by early this morning, when they saw what looked like two bodies in the water.

Gardaí arrived at the scene close to the Grand Parade and Charlemont Luas stop shortly after 8am.

Both men have been identified although the formal identification process is still ongoing.

It is understood that the two people were homeless and the results of post-mortem examinations will determine the course of the investigation.

A large area around both banks of the Grand Canal has been sealed off.

It is understood that the bodies were found close to the northern bank of the canal close to the Ranelagh Road bridge.

A large number of people have been sleeping in tents close to the scene where the bodies were found this morning.

Some said they were first alerted to what happened when they saw emergency services at the scene this morning.

Volunteers working with others who were camped nearby, including international protection applicants, have described the tents being so close to the water as a “dangerous situation”, but they say that there is very little available space with barriers close to the Grand Canal.

The post-mortem examinations on the two men are expected to take some time.

Local Fianna Fáil TD Jim O’Callaghan has expressed his condolences to the family and friends of the two men.

Speaking to RTÉ News, he said: “I’m extremely sorry to hear about the fact that two men have died. We don’t know yet their identity but it’s a tragic development in the area. The gardaí are investigating the matter.”

Mr O’Callaghan said that what happens next will depend on the outcome of the garda investigation.

“But if it is the case that the men were staying in tents or they were homeless, I suppose it does underline the dangerousness of being living in a tent and being homeless,” he said.

“Obviously there’s an obligation to say, to ensure that we provide accommodation for people who find themselves in that desperate situation.”