The Department of Justice has said it cannot comment on reports that some of the 15 men who were found earlier this week in the back of a lorry on a boat travelling from France to Rosslare have left the direct provision system.
A number of Sunday newspapers have reported that nine of the 15 men have left the reception centre where they were being processed.
One juvenile who was travelling with the group is in the care of the Child and Family Agency Tusla.
In a statement, the Department of Justice said it does not comment on individual cases.
It said that it has a legal obligation to protect the privacy of anyone who makes a claim for international protection.
But it said it was not compulsory for people to stay in the accommodation offered by the State and as they are not detained, they can leave the accommodation at any time they choose.
In a statement, gardaí said the 15 adults "continue to be offered accommodation and welfare services by Reception and Integration Agency" and their application for international protection continues.
It also said that a criminal investigation is ongoing.
