Women asylum seekers forced into prostitution

Reports that women held at direct provision centres are being forced into prostitution to support themselves have been described as "shocking" by Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald.

The comments came after RTÉ reported some women living at the asylum centres had become prostitutes as they are given less than €20 a week by the State.

The justice minister has ordered a report on the situation from the Reception and Integration Agency, which is responsible for providing accommodation and services for asylum seekers while their applications are processed.