Gardai search quarry in birr

Gardai are searching a quarry in Birr where bones were reported to have been unearthed 25 years ago. 

The initial discovery of the bones pre-dates the disappearance of Tullamore woman Fiona Pender and the dig is not being linked to her case.

It's understood the search, which began on Tuesday, was prompted by a member of the public who told gardai he had re-buried bones when he discovered them at the quarry a quarter of a century ago. 

It's unclear whether the bones are those of a human or an animal. However, it's understood the site is located close to the site of an old workhouse.

Meanwhile, Gardai are continuing to search a wooded area at Capard, Rosenallis in Co Laois for Fiona Pender's remains.