A report on Ireland's asylum and protection process recommends the fast-tracking of the granting of residency to those in the system for five years or more.
Speaking following the publication of the report today, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald says she shares very real concerns expressed in the report.
The Minister said she intends to bring forward a series of reforms aimed at improving conditions, particularly for families and children.
The Working Group Report on the Protection Process also recommends changes including access to the labour market for first-time applicants who have been waiting for a decision for nine months or more; extension of student supports; an increase in weekly allowances for adults and children; and improved accommodation conditions for all families affected.
As of February this year, more than 3,500 are said to have been residing in Direct Provision - with 41% in the system for five years or more.
The UNHCR - the UN's refugee agency - has commended "the Irish authorities for the establishment of the Working Group and calls for the swift implementation of its recommendations."
Minister of State Aodhán Ó Ríordáin says today is another "Yes Equality" moment for Direct Provision and the protection system.
He has been speaking about the report's recommendations:
