20% of the Irish Defence Forces are claiming Family Income Support to make ends meet.

The figure is according to PDFORRA - the group representing rank-and-file members of the Defence Forces - which is voicing concern about the cuts they've endured in recent years.

It is also claimed that a number of soldiers are sleeping in their cars outside army barracks because they can't afford to drive home.

The closure of a number of barracks around the country has added to difficulties, with some members reportedly facing round trips of up to 300 kilometres after they were relocated.

The Irish Examiner quotes Gerard Guinan, PDFORRA's deputy general secretary, who said, "loyal, dedicated, professional soldiers should not be reliant on the Department of Social Protection to supplement their pay in order for them to enjoy the very basic standard of living."

The organisation, which has been holding its annual conference in Sligo, is also warning that some soldiers from the UN peacekeeping mission at the Golan Heights have exhibited post-traumatic stress symptoms due to live fire incidents.

It is calling for a rapid response unit to be ready to travel to areas where Irish troops are stationed to complement existing Defence Forces support services.