‘Low paid’ soldiers relying on welfare

Some members of the Defence Forces rely on social welfare payments to support their family, as their pay is “so low”.

The lowest-ranking members of the Defence Forces take home just over €300 a week.

A 24-hour protest is currently taking place outside Leinster House to highlight the low pay, by the Wives and Partners of Defence Forces (WPDF) as soldiers are prohibited from taking part in collective bargaining.