File pic.

Skull found at old military barracks

WORKMEN probing a ceiling at a disused military barracks in Co. Mayo unwittingly made a grim discovery when a dusty human skull, amongst other debris, fell on them.

The site at the 200-year-old former Military Barracks in Castlebar was closed off today (Friday) for a garda technical examination and all works have been suspended.

It is thought the skull, which is being forensically examined, may have lain in the ceiling of Block A of the complex for more than 100 years.

Castlebar Military Barracks was occupied by the British until the 1921 Treaty and was later used by the Irish Army.

However, it is now disused and other purposes are being considered for the structure.