Brothers die following diving tragedy in Portroe

Two brothers have died following a drowning tragedy at Portroe Dive Centre on Sunday afternoon. The two are thought to be from Co Laois - one aged in his mid-30s while the other is in his mid-40s.

 

A number of investigations have been launched into the tragedy including one by the Gardai and another involving the Health and Safety Authority. The brothers are thought to have gotten in to difficulties while diving at the quarry this Sunday afternoon.

 

The Emergency Services were alerted to the situation after the men exerienced difficulties while diving around 1.30pm. Killaloe Coastguard, Doolin Coastguard, gardai and ambulance personnel as well as the Shannon-based Coast Guard Search and Rescue Helicopter were all involved in a search and rescue operation but this was stood down after the bodies of the two divers were recovered.

 

The bodies of the men have been removed to Limerick University Hospital where a post-mortem examination is expected to take place later on.  The quarry in Portroe has been a popular location for divers for many years.