Between 50pc and 70pc of people on average seeking international protection (IP) in Ireland every week have IP applications in other countries, according to the Department of Justice.
The proposal which had been floated by the Taoiseach in recent weeks was ruled out in a letter to public representatives in Louth that was issued Saturday afternoon
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys is unable to say if the Government will sign off on lower social welfare for Ukrainian refugees before Christmas.