Yesterday, the discovery of twin brothers in Cork who had apparently died in a murder suicide left the entire community in shock.

Banogue National School, which the boys attended, today released a statement declaring that they are "deeply shocked and saddened by deaths of twin brothers."

Thomas and Patrick O’Driscoll were in third class in the school and were nine years of age.

“This is a terrible tragedy for the family, the school and the whole community. We are deeply saddened by this event,” said principal teacher Sheila Cagney

“Our sympathy and thoughts are with the family and friends at this terrible time.”

Ms. Cagney described both boys as "loving, energetic and full of fun." The boys had been pupils in the school for just over a year.

She said the focus of the staff at this time was on the pupils in the school who are trying to come to terms with the loss of young friends.

“We will help the children to the best of our ability,” said Ms. Cagney. “We are receiving support from the National Education Psychological Service who will be at the school today to support staff on dealing with the tragedy.”