The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre says it's seen a 36% increase in the number of victims of recent rape and sexual assault seeking treatment.

Staff at the centre accompanied 295 people to the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in Dublin's Rotunda Hospital last year, compared to 221 in 2014.

The Centre has described the figures as "very concerning".

Head of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre Ellen O'Malley-Dunlop believes the increasing use of dating apps may be one cause of the increase in attacks.

Potential users of these apps are being warned that there are people who are preying on people in vulnerable situations, and not to share personal information with anyone until they are absolutely sure who they are communicating with.