Suspected human remains found in County Cork

Part of the road was closed after the discovery near the village of Whitegate

Gardaí (Irish police) have found suspected human remains in east County Cork.

The discovery was made by garda near the village of Whitegate just after midday by a search team with a dog.

The remains are to be examined by a pathologist, and identification will rely on dental or DNA records.

RTÉ is reporting that gardaí were searching the wider area as part of their on-going investigation into the disappearance of 47-year-old Kieran Quilligan, who went missing from Cork City in September.

It is not yet known if Monday's discovery is linked to that extensive search.

A garda spokesperson confirmed they are investigating the discovery of suspected human remains.

"Gardaí from Anglesea Street are currently at a location in Rostellan, County Cork, where skeletal remains were found today.

"Investigations into establishing the identity of the deceased are ongoing, and the area continues to be cordoned off for forensic and technical examination," said a spokesperson.