Excavations are to be carried out on two sites that have been discovered on the proposed routes of the M7 and M8 motorways in Co Laois that are thought to be of archaeological interest.
Fears have been expressed that construction work on the routes could be delayed.
However, Michael Egan of the National Roads Authority said it was premature to speak of anything of Irish or international significance at the two sites.
Speaking on RTÉ Radio's Morning Ireland, Mr Egan said investigations into the sites were at an early stage.
He said that test trenching had been carried out along the route that would identify the number of sites. He added that the NRA had applied for directions as to how the sites should be dealt with.
Today's Laois Nationalist Newspaper identifies the sites as being close to Cullahill and at Clonadacasey near Portlaoise.
Senior officials at Laois County Council have written to the Department of the Environment.
However, council officials are only beginning their examination of the material before the Minister for the Environment, Dick Roche, issues directions on how to proceed.
The Nationalist quotes unnamed senior council officials as expressing concern that if the finds turn out to be of major significance then road construction may be held up for five years.
