Advance. The work force cost has increased, in the first three months of this year compared to the similar period of 2007, with almost 20%, according to datas released by the National Institute of Statistic (INS).

The index, which is measured on every trimester, accounts the number of working days of a month and evaluates the hourly costs supported by the employer. The highest raises were recorded with the work force from education, public administration, health services and social assistance.