The Irish Penal Reform Trust says its not surprising.
Overcrowding, safety issues and inadequate mental health supports in prisons are among the findings by an EU inspection.
The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture says there have been positive reforms since its last visit six years ago, but more needs to be done.
It says physical safety in male prisons has deteriorated and allegations of abuse from prison staff has increased.
Midlands Prison is currently at 119% capacity, with 220 extra prisoners in the system, while Portlaoise Prison is at 124 % with 58 prisoners without beds.
During a visit to Oberstown Children Detention Campus and Ballydowd Special Care Unit, the body noted a lack of capacity in special care means young people are spending longer behind bars waiting for the appropriate placement.
The Irish Penal Reform Trust says its not surprising.
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