FIFA has dashed the Ireland’s hopes of replaying our World Cup qualifying play-off with France.

The world governing body ruled that the result cannot be changed and the match cannot be replayed.

FIFA said in a statement: “FIFA has today 20 November 2009 replied to the request made by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to replay the 2010 FIFA World Cup play-off match held on 18 November 2009 between France and the Republic of Ireland in Paris”.

“In the reply, FIFA states that the result of the match cannot be changed and the match cannot be replayed. As is clearly mentioned in the Laws of the Game, during matches, decisions are taken by the referee and these decisions are final.”

The FAI had formally requested a replay after Thierry Henry’s clear handball in the build-up to William Gallas’ decisive goal.

It comes afer both the Minister for Justice and the Taoiseach said they would support calls for a re-play.

Earlier today, a Senior French Minister also called for a replay of the match.

Economy Minister Christine Lagarde said FIFA should look again at the rules and that if they are bad they should be re-examined.

Ms Lagards comments are in contrast to that of President Sarkozy, who opted not to get involved in the controversy.

Ms Lagard was speaking on French radio network RTL.

“Naturally Im very happy that the team is in the World cup but its sad to have qualified by cheating” she said.

“I find FIFA should look at their rules – because I think in such circumstances it would be good to decide to have the match replayed”.

“Change the rules – We must respect rules but if those rules are bad – they must be re-examined” she added.