The benefits sometimes received by strikers' families also rose in absolute terms.

In the more optimistic case, benefits will rise to 5.2 percent.

As we are all in this together, it is therefore only fair pensions and benefits rise by 2% next year.

Individual benefits rise from $4,800 in 1995 to $6,700 in 2002 - a 40 percent increase.

The average monthly benefit for retired workers will rise by $6, to $488.

People younger than 65 would see benefits rise to $1,030 from $867.50, on average.

The average benefit for a retired worker will rise by $39, to $1,002 a month.

Hourly wages and benefits rose at an annual rate of 4.1 percent, the department said.

That means both wages and benefits are rising more slowly.

Pay and benefits rose at a 3.5 percent rate for the last year.