Two men killed in horror crash had recently arrived in Ireland and were set to start new jobs

Two men who recently arrived in Ireland after securing jobs here were tragically killed in a horror road smash on Wednesday.

The Polish construction workers, in their 30s and 40s, flew into the country last week and they had been self-isolating ahead of starting their employment.

However, the pair were killed instantly in a single-vehicle road crash on the R181 between Castleblayney and Lough Egish in Co Monaghan at 2.30pm.

Garda forensic collision investigators examined the scene and appealed for witnesses or road-users with dash-cam footage from Wednesday evening.

R181 between Castleblayney and Lough Egish (stock image) (Google Maps)

The Castleblayney-based Tusker Construction Group, who were set to hire the men, sympathised with the bereaved families.

The company issued a statement and a spokesman said: "We wish to express our sincere sympathy to the families of two Polish nationals who tragically lost their lives in a single vehicle accident near Castleblayney earlier today.

"Having recently arrived in Ireland via a recruitment agency, both men were self-isolating in anticipation of gaining employment with Tusker Construction Group in due course.

"Our thought and prayers are with the deceased and their families at this terribly sad time.

"May they Rest in Peace."

The road was closed for a number of hours on Wednesday as gardai began their investigation.

Local Fianna Fail Councillor Aoife McCooey said: "I'd like to extend my sympathies to the families of the two gentlemen that died and their colleagues at Tusker Construction.

"I'm sure they were dealing with members of staff there while [they were in the area].

"And if there's anything that the people of Castleblayney can do for the families I'm sure that they'll be looked after in the best possible way."

Meanwhile, investigating officers were trying to ascertain what caused the crash.

A Garda spokesman said: "Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information, particularly any road users with dash-cam footage who travelled in the area between 2-2:30pm to contact Castleblayney Garda station on 042 974 0668 or the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111."