Controlled explosion carried out on suspect package

The Army bomb disposal team carried out a controlled explosion on a suspect package discovered in Co Louth earlier today.

Two houses were evacuated after the package was found near a bridge in Castlebellingham.

The device was handed over to the Gardaí who will carry out a forensic examination.

They are treating the incident as an elaborate hoax and are investigating the matter.

A Defence Forces spokesman said the package had all the hallmarks of a viable device.