Two female tourists have been seriously injured after being hit by a bus on Dublin's O'Connell St this evening.
The incident has led to the closure the southbound lanes on O'Connell St, resulting in severe traffic disruption around the city centre.
Southbound traffic is being diverted via Gardiner St. This is impacting on traffic on all surrounding city centre routes. Weather conditions are very poor in the capital this evening.
It is understood the women, one in her sixties and the other in her twenties, were struck by a Dublin Bus double-decker which was en route to Bray.
The older woman is reported to be in a very serious condition. She is being treated at St James's Hospital. The younger woman has been taken to the Mater Hospital, where her condition is said to be stable.
Gráinne Macken, Dublin Bus spokesperson, speaking from the scene, said it appeared the 145 bus had struck two English tourists who she said may have stepped in front of the bus.
Part of the road remains closed while gardaí take statements from the driver and witnesses. The incident happened just after 4.15pm adjacent to the Spire.