Despite a planned rise in pensions of 5 percent agreed in parliament earlier this month, the parliamentary opposition have called for higher rises of between 8 and 10 percent. Two of the ruling parties, the New Citizen's Alliance (ANO) and the Hungarian Coalition Party (SMK), are also asking for higher rises.
Labour Minister Ľudovít Kaník said that although a 10 percent rise would be needed to improve pensioners living standards, "the government does not have a magic wand".
The Labour Ministry disputes social security provider Sociálna poistovňa's claims that a 7 to 8 percent rise is affordable.
Compiled by Conrad Toft from press reports.
The Slovak Spectator cannot vouch for the accuracy of the information presented in its Flash News postings.
21. May 2003 at 9:44
