LATEST: Bones found during work at former Cork city pub at least 70 years old 

LATEST: Gardaí in Cork have confirmed that skeletal remains found on the site of the former Nancy Spain’s pub are at least 70 years old and not a matter for criminal investigation. 

Builders at the site of the former pub on Barrack Street stopped work on a new development when possible human remains were discovered this morning at approximately 11.15am. 

"Gardaí were informed that skeletal remains were found on the site and attended the scene," a Garda spokesperson said. "Work was stopped and the scene was preserved.

"Cork City Coroner was assisted by the Assistant State Pathologist Dr. Margaret Bolster and all parties are satisfied that the bones are in excess of 70 years old." 

The spokesperson said the remains will be dealt with as an archaeological find and added: "This is no longer a matter for An Garda Síochána." 

EARLIER: Suspected human remains are believed to have been discovered on the site of an old city centre pub.

It's understood that bones were found underneath the floorboards of the old Barrack Street haunt Nancy Spain’s during demolition work, as part of a Council housing project.

The ongoing construction work has since been stopped and Gardaí have been at the scene since lunchtime with experts understood to be en route to investigate.

The Irish Examiner reports that the bones will be analysed to determine if they are human remains or otherwise and to offer a timeline of events surrounding the discovery.

The results of these early investigative efforts will determine how the newly established Garda case will proceed.

Nancy Spain’s was a historic gig spot that closed in the early 2000’s. The local authority is working to turn the site into 32 apartments.

Both An Garda Síochána and Cork City Council have been contacted for comment.