Up to 16 people have been found alive in a truck that was bound for Ireland.
The people, who are believed to originally be from southeast Asia, were discovered in a lorry container on a Stena ship that was sailing from Cherbourg in France and due to arrive at Rosslare Harbour in Co Wexford this afternoon.
Investigations are underway into the find, which is said to have happened after a staff member on the ferry heard banging coming from the lorry.
It is understood those discovered in the truck were taken to the lounge area of the ferry and are in relatively good health, although some had not eaten for days.
They are all believed to be men aged between 20 and 40. It is thought they travelled from Belgium on November 16.
The ship, which left France last night, is set to dock at 3pm and those onboard will be met by gardai and emergency services, RTE reports.
Gardai want to speak to the lorry driver and those found in the back of the truck about how they came to be onboard.
Stena Line said in a statement: "All the individuals are reported to be in good health and have been moved to a private passenger lounge on the ship where their wellbeing is the focus of our employees.
"Stena Line has alerted security and immigration officials in Rosslare so as the necessary arrangements can be made for the group on the vessel's arrival."
