INwake of recent revelation about large sums of money being used by government officials for medical procedures, President Donald Ramotar has confirmed that he has begun discussions with executives of the ruling party, as well as the Cabinet for a new system of financial assistance for medical purposes. “…This will be capped in the future. It will not be allowed to have an unlimited charge on the treasury. I’m planning to move toward a health insurance system so that I can limit the exposure on the treasury for many of these health benefits.”
The Head of State noted that it was unfortunate that only the bills of some senior government functionaries were released when many other persons continue to benefit from the current scheme.
President Ramotar pointed out that persons including members of the Opposition parties and persons who are not supportive of the government have benefited from this scheme over the years.
“We spent millions on people who have not been supportive of the party. We have given assistance right across the board. It is not limited to Government ministers…”
Further, the President said one should look at the motive behind bringing this issue to the fore as he noted that it is a move to suggest that only government officials are benefiting.
He added that at almost every Cabinet meeting, requests are granted for financing of medical treatment from persons across the country and many have been approved.
However, in going forward, once the discussions and consultations are held, a technical team will work out the new mechanism of how persons can access this kind of assistance in the future to ensure that there is a limit to what is given to persons in need.(GINA)