By Ramesh Subbaraman
In an announcement issued by the Public Service Division on 25 November 2015, civil servants will be paid a year-end Annual Variable Component (AVC) of 0.65 month. Low-wage officers will get a minimum year-end AVC of $1,100. All civil servants will also get the Non-Pensionable Annual Allowance (NPAA) of 1 month, to be paid in December together with the AVC.
“We are also pleased to note that the Public Service Division (PSD) has paid close attention to the lower-wage officers by giving a higher amount than if the bonus is pegged to their monthly wages. This will benefit about 1,300 officers,” said NTUC Assistant Secretary-General Cham Hui Fong in response to the announcement.
Low-Wage Workers Benefit
For example, an officer earning a monthly salary of $1,500 will get a year-end AVC of $1,100. This is $125 more than what he would get at 0.65 month of his monthly salary, which would have been $975.
“The amount will come in handy for our lower-wage workers during this festive season, as well as cope with the higher cost of living. I urge our members to spend the bonus wisely in view of the uncertain economy ahead.” -Mr G Muthukumarasamy, General Secretary, Amalgamated Union of Public Daily Rated Workers (AUPDRW)
“AUPE appreciates the positive attitude of the union representatives and the PSD in negotiating this year-end pay package. We are pleased that civil servants’ contributions are valued, and are receiving a total AVC of 1.15 months for 2015 despite a lower forecast of our full year economic growth this year.” - Mr Yeo Chun Fing, General Secretary, Amalgamated Union of Public Employees (AUPE)
