Paediatricians are calling on the Government to abolish Ireland's direct provision system.
A new report from the Faculty of Paediatrics at the Royal College of Physicians says asylum seekers should instead be accommodated in own-door, community-based housing.
The latest figures show that 1,778 children were living in direct provision in Ireland last year - many for periods of 14 months or more.
Meanwhile, 23% of applications for international protection in Ireland last year were made by children.
Dr Ellen Crushell from the Faculty of Paediatrics suggests living in the system can have major implications for a child.
She said: "[There's] the stress of living in that environment... the lack of autonomy.
"They are socially excluded from many of the activities outside of school... so that - along with the other problems such as overcrowding and child protection concerns - all add up to make direct provision an adverse childhood experience."
Dr Crushell added: "Overcrowding brings its own problems.
"Studies have shown that children living in direct provision are at a higher risk of burns and scalds - for example, that would be associated with a family in a bedroom having a kettle in the room."
Dr Niamh O’Brien, Paediatrics Specialist Registrar and lead author of the report, said the country "can no longer ignore the plight" experienced by children in the system.
She explained: "Over 60% are not fully vaccinated, and many do not get health screening on arrival to Ireland.
"They are vulnerable to mental health issues, are over-represented in burns admissions, and find it difficult to integrate into society, due to the restrictions imposed by Direct Provision.
“Our system of placing children in direct provision is unethical, stigmatising, and needs to end".
The medics are recommending a number of changes, including ensuring access to self-catering facilities for families in accommodation.
They're also calling for baby-related items to be made freely available, the allowance for families for school and clothing expenses to be increased, and for funding to be made available for additional vaccinations.
