The number of people seeking international protection in Ireland in the first three months of this year has risen by more than 2,000 compared to the same time last year.
Figures from the Department of Justice show 5,163 people applied for international protection up to 28 March.
This represents a rise of 2,170 from the same period of time last year when 2,993 applications were made by 28 March 2023.
More than one third of those who have applied for international protection so far this year are from Nigeria (1,668) while 416 are from Bangladesh, 400 from Pakistan, 365 from Somalia and 243 from Afghanistan.
More than 45 other nationalities are also included in the figures.
The total number of applicants for international protection last year was 13,277.
