THE TWO MEN killed in a house fire in Sligo yesterday have been named locally as brothers Pa and Seamus Cuffe.

The men lived together in the family home in Rathlee, between Easkey and the seaside town of Enniscrone.

At around 11am on December 28th gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the fire near Easkey that occurred overnight. The two men were pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported.

The bodies of Pa and Seamus Cuffe were removed from the scene this evening and were taken to Sligo University Hospital where post-mortem examinations will take place.

Gardaí said the outcome of the post-mortem examinations will determine the course of their investigation. The scene has been preserved for a technical examination.

Locals said they two brothers were absolute gentlemen and very highly thought of in the community.

Local Councillor Thomas Walsh (FG) said ‘’Very sad news. Sympathies to the family and the local community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha’’.

Paying tribute one neighbour Bernie Coggins said he grew up with the brothers.

“They used to go to the mart every week, every Tuesday. They were in good health and Seamus just had his cataracts done a few months ago. It’s awful sad. They were a big part of our local community,” he added.

“Gardaí are investigating a fatal house fire that occurred in County Sligo. At approximately 11am on Sunday gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the fire that occurred at a residence near Easkey overnight.

“Two males, aged in their 80s, were pronounced deceased at the scene. No other injuries were reported,” said a spokesperson.

Gardaí say arrangements are being made to carry out post-mortem examinations, the outcome of which will determine the course of the investigation. However, at this stage, it’s understood there is nothing to suggest foul play.

“The scene is currently preserved for technical examination,” said the spokesperson who added that investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to come forward.