Gardaí in Portlaoise are investigating a report that a number of people were found in the back of a lorry yesterday evening but fled when discovered.
A Garda helicopter was involved in the search yesterday along with various gardaí on the ground.
The people, thought to be refugees, were found in the trailer of a lorry at around 6.50pm at The Rock, outside Mountmellick.
It is believed the lorry had travelled from Spain to Cherbourg in France before arriving in Rosslare by ferry.
The Irish Road Haulage Association has called for the proper policing of foreign ports.
Speaking on RTE's News at One, IRHA President Verona Murphy said in this case the lock on the door of the lorry trailer was intact but it seems the hinges had been interfered with.
It is believed five males were in the back of the lorry.
