Updated 6.40pm, 30 December

THE HSE HAS confirmed it will investigate the deaths of Cork man Michael Greaney and his wife Valerie.

The couple, aged 53 and 49 respectively, were found dead at their home in O’Neils Place in Cobh on Sunday afternoon.

Their eldest daughter, aged in her early 20s, was also seriously injured.

Gardaí are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths.

Michael had battled mental health issues and was released from the Central Mental Hospital in Dublin less than two months ago.

A spokesperson for the HSE said the an internal review “into the circumstances of the tragic incident” is taking place “in line with HSE standard practice for any serious incidents relating to service users”.

The Mental Health Commission has been informed, as is required in such cases.

The HSE spokesperson continued:

“Individuals who are committed to the Central Mental Hospital under section 5(2) of the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act receive treatment and care. Under the Act, it is the Court that has the authority to release an individual.”

In an earlier statement, the HSE extended its “deepest sympathy” to the family and friends of the deceased.

It said it will liaise with the family and community in relation to the incident, and that “any supports required will be made available to provide assistance at this difficult time”.

The HSE would encourage anyone affected by this tragic incident to contact Console’s confidential freephone helpline service on 1800 247 247 or the Samaritans on 116 123.

Deeply shocked

Bishop of Cloyne William Crean has asked for prayers for all of those affected by the tragic events.

“I was deeply shocked to hear of the deaths of Michael and Valerie Greaney and the serious injuries suffered by their daughter, Michelle,” Crean said.

I ask the faithful of the diocese to pray for all of those affected by these sad events. May the light of Christ, whose coming into the world we celebrate at Christmas, help to guide us through this great darkness which has fallen on the community of Cobh, and on the diocese as a whole.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident at approximately 3.30pm on Sunday afternoon.

Additional reporting by Órla Ryan and Aoife Barry

First published 20.22pm 28 December 2014

Helplines:

• Console 1800 247 247 – (suicide prevention, self-harm, bereavement)

• Aware 1890 303 302 (depression anxiety)

• Pieta House 01 601 0000 or email mary@pieta.ie - (suicide, self-harm, bereavement)

• Teen-Line Ireland 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19)

• Childline 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s)

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