A man is dead and a woman is in a critical condition following a serious car crash this afternoon on the M7 near Monasterevin in Co Kildare.
The man, who is believed to be in his 60s, died at the scene after the car he was driving collided with a truck.
Gardaí are investigating the incident, which happened shortly before 2pm on the northbound lane of the Monasterevin bypass.
The injured woman was the only other occupant of the car. She is being cared for in Portlaoise Midland Regional Hospital, where her condition is described as critical.
The driver of the truck escaped injury.
The northbound lane of the M7 is closed at Monasterevin and diversions are in place.
Gardaí are directing traffic from the New Inn interchange onto the old road, through Ballybrittas to Monasterevin, and back onto the motorway.
However, motorists are being advised to avoid the area if possible.