March 4, Minsk /Elena Prus - BELTA/. The issue of increasing unemployment benefits is still on the agenda. This was stated by the First Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Protection of Belarus, Petr Grushnik, today during a direct telephone line on employment and the labour market situation, a BELTA correspondent reports. The ministry representative acknowledged that the current average unemployment benefit is not high (in January of this year - Br54.3 thousand). "The issue of strengthening social protection for citizens who have temporarily lost their jobs is under consideration," said Petr Grushnik. "And it is not yet possible to give a definitive answer." Residents from different regions of Belarus (Minsk, Vitebsk, Brest, Grodno regions) during the telephone dialogue with the First Deputy Minister not only asked pressing questions and shared their problems but also expressed their proposals. Moreover, they concerned not only employment but also social services, remuneration and payment of wages, and labour protection. The largest number of questions concerned child benefits and the prospects for their increase. Petr Grushnik noted that the lump-sum benefit for the birth of a child will double starting next year. An increase in benefits for childcare up to three years of age is also envisaged – to 35-40% of the average wage in the republic. The extension of the prenatal leave by two weeks is also being discussed. "These and other significant family support measures are included in the draft National Programme for Demographic Security for 2011-2015," stated Petr Grushnik. "It is expected to be adopted at the end of March this year. Then it will be possible to speak with full confidence about how demographic policy will be built, including stimulating childbirth and supporting families with children." The First Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Protection answered most questions directly during the direct telephone line. For those who need additional clarification (including to defend their point of view before an employer), he advised them to apply to the ministry in writing. "Specialists are ready to provide qualified answers to such citizen appeals," emphasised Petr Grushnik and assured that the practice of holding direct lines would continue.-0-

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