THE Government and the unions representing civil servants in the negotiations for wages last night agree on an eight percent across the board increase, backdated to April this year.

As from the beginning of this month the housing allowances for civil servants below management cadre will also double while their transport allowances went up by 15%.

The motor vehicle vehicle allowance for the management cadre also increased by eight percent.

Under the agreement the kilometre tariff of the motor vehicle allowance also increased from N$2,50 to N$3,50 as from the beginning of this month while there will also be an improvement in the public service employees medical aid scheme (Psemas) as from january next year.

The unions and the Government's negotiating team also agreed on a 10% across-the-board salary adjustment for the 2014/2015 financial year. It means all civil servants in the bargaining unit will get 10% increase on April 1 2014.

The danger and risk allowances for those working on sea will also be improved as from April next year but the details will still be announced.