The government has published proposed legislation to recognise transgender people.
Under the provisions of the Gender Recognition Bill - people will have their new gender formally acknowledged by the State.
It will also enable transgender people to apply for a new birth certificate.
Its estimated around 200 people are already waiting for the service - with up to 50 others expected to apply each year.
The Social Protection Minister Joan Burton says it will be available to transgender people who are aged over 18 and single:
