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Raul Castro raises state pensions for Cubans by 20%

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MEXICO, April 28 (RIA Novosti) - Cuban President Raul Castro has raised state pensions by 20% from May, the government press service said on Monday.

The increase, from 164 pesos ($6.8) to 200 pesos ($8.3), will affect over 2 million pensioners.

Castro was cited as saying the increase was a "fair measure of recognition" for those who had worked hard for Cuba and socialism. The increase will require an additional 810 million pesos ($32 million) in budget funding each year.

The Cuban president also raised wages for public prosecutor and court employees by 55%, as well as increasing welfare benefits for low-income families to 147 pesos ($6.1).

Average wages in Cuba today are 408 pesos ($17) a month. Cubans receive free education and healthcare from the state, while many staple foods are subsidized.

The Labor Ministry earlier lifted a limit on wages.

The pension increase follows a lifting of a ban on private farmers buying agricultural equipment in mid-March and the easing of restrictions on the purchase of household appliances, mobile phones and electronic equipment for Cubans.

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