Ireland's roads have claimed the lives of three more victims.

Three women were killed in the small hours of this morning following a crash near Ardee in Co. Louth on the N2.

This is the main road to Dublin for motorists from north Donegal and Derry.

The incident happened at around 1.00 am.

Two men were also injured in the crash on a section of road near Aclint Bridge.

The road has been shut to facilitate an examination by Garda forensic personnel. It will remain closed for the day and diversions are in place. This will affect motorists going to and from much of north Donegal and Derry.

Gardaí are asking motorists using the M1 to divert at Junction 17 for Castleblayney.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to contact Ardee Garda Station 041 6871130, The Garda Confidential Line 1 800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

Gardaí said the incident involved three cars. One female driver aged 39 years, and two female passengers aged 37 and 69 years were killed.

It is understood that those killed were  aged 37, 39 37 and 69 years-old.

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