Bomb discoveroved near birr overnight

An Army bomb disposal team made safe a viable improvised explosive device at a rural house in Fivealley near Birr overnight.

Gardai called in the Army bomb disposal team after a suspected pipe bomb was discovered at a house late last night.

The area was cordoned off and one nearby building was evacuated as army experts based in Athlone were brought in to deal with the device.

They arrived at the scene at 2.20am and inspected the device at the scene.
The Defence Forces confirmed  'the device was ​made safe at the scene without the need for a controlled explosion. It was ​taken away for further examination and was confirmed as viable.' ​ The scene was declare safe at 3.10am.  

Once the Defence Forces have concluded their examination, any items of an evidential nature will be handed over to the Gardaí to assist them with their investigation.