Caribarena Antigua The Best Caribbean News Portal

**True** » 2012-12-20 16:19

Why de hell is caribarena, so one sided? I note that my comments never get placed, is it you are trying to find out who de hell is making those comment before you publish them?

**Sources** » 2012-12-20 05:29

Caribarena has sold this story to the bloggers-wholesale.
I wonder how many of you actually questioned the validity of the story?
Was their source a credible one?
We like run with news that are scandalous!

**Bozo** » 2012-12-19 18:52

I have a bull pistle soaking for you! Don't keep me waiting too long! If taken once daily before meals, it should cure you of your bias!

**bjsm** » 2012-12-19 17:15

u said jackie is not "ordinary" and u rite.. the woman dont get and ordinary poor people pay cheque..she can afford it without all that money from the poor man pocket... her cancer is not different that an ordinary woman cancer all caner ah cancer and should be treated the same... and if the poor man can only get EC2000 or so why the in gods name should she that can afford it 10 time more than the ORDINARY MAN GET US100,000...all im saying if jackie can get that kind of money to help save her life we as poor people should get at least half of what she got to help save our life too.. her life cant be better than mine... we both came from a woman, we both use the toilet the same way..so why is her life more important to save than mine? if she can get that help jus by a signature well us poor people that put them there can get the same signature to help us out as well... SO RUPERT J WEN U SAY SHE IS NOT "ORDINARY" U RITE SHE HAS MORE MONEY THAT THE ORDINARY PEOPLE IN THIS COUNTY...SAY ONE SAY TWO IF SHE CAN GET THAT KIND OF HELP TO SAVE HER LIFE AND GOT ALL THAT MONEY OF HER OWN...THEN WE AS POOR PEOPLE THAT HAVE NEVER SEEN THAT KIND OF MONEY SHOULD GET THE SAME HELP TOOOOOOOO..

**rupert j.** » 2012-12-19 16:45

I have read this article and I see no problem with what the medical board has done. What has taken place here is a decision that any board all over the world would have made. First and formost this lady is not an ''ordinary'' person she is a member of government serving the people of antigua/barbuda and as such is entitled to certain privilidges that the general populace is not entitled to and for that reason that position has brought on some of the most ridiculous and small minded comments i have heard for a long time and what also surprise me some of the unimformed comments are are coming from people who should no better that is because they are putting politics over common sense.

**Real Simple** » 2012-12-18 11:21

Get well soon. Give back the money very soon. :-*

**Original Independent** » 2012-12-18 10:11

I was going to pass on this one but I can't any longer. First, I sympathise with the minister because cancer is not an easy disease. My mother is a cancer survivor. She got her surgery successfully done at MSJMC and she paid all her own medical bills. Some people on this blog seem to not recognise that NO ONE is rejoicing about the minister's illness. The problem most of us have is the fact that many people are denied help for far less sums of money and many of whom DIED. The fact is that it is totally unfair and whether or not she's an elected official should not be a consideration here. I would like to know if for those of you who were in full support of this, how would you feel if it was one of YOUR family members who died because MBS denied them $10,000 or less for their medical treatment? Some of you are too blinded by party politics and loyalty because of what some politician may have done for you to understand that a life can never be replaced. No one, no matter who they are should be held more valuable than anyone else's. The question now is: What excuse will be used if MBS denies medical aid to people whose illnesses are covered by the scheme for $10,000 or less?

**UNITED STATES** » 2012-12-18 00:10

27 red thumbs down were not enough.I would like to see more,perhaps 50.I need the record if there is one.Village Boi,I looked out into my front yard.The g** is covered with ice.My front and backyard are very clean.This lady is not my minister.This lady is not my employee.She does not work for me.I am not of your small minded political crap.Caribarena printed a story.How do you know all of the contents are true.You are so gullible you swallowed it all hook, line and sinker.Caribare na insights,you the blogger should read between the lines.What if MBS gave those monies to a person of no influence for the same cause.What would have happened then.I do not believe the out cry would be so nasty in tone.

**The Watcher** » 2012-12-17 23:57

@Wadadli24...in total agreement. It is quite obvious from the headline of this article that the writer has issues with what took place and framed the story to thus show. But i am amazed at how some people truly thinks. Some of us have jobs that cause us great stress and have high degrees of difficulty much less a job that entails managing a country's entire education system. So can we truly expect that the individual to be treated like all others? It may sound unfair, but the reality of the situation requires that the elected official be treated differently.

**tenman** » 2012-12-17 23:52

wadadli24, find an answer, coming from the MBS inquiry commissioners, to your suggestion that politicians be treated differently:

Quote:

In respect of applications for overseas medical treatment, the Commissioners have recommended that no applications should be dealt with by Cabinet. I (LESTER BIRD) will urge Cabinet’s full acceptance of this recommendation. I merely note in passing that Cabinet did not seek this role in the first place. In small societies, such as ours, it is usual for persons to approach politicians for assistance and they expect politicians to deliver. Dealing with applications by the full cabinet was, if anything, a safeguard. However, a specific and well-publicised exclusion of Ministers from this process should go some way toward persuading people that the politician has no power to act in this matter. The Commissioners have suggested that medical referrals should be made to a small technical team that would decide on the amount of assistance. Appeals would be made to the Board of MBS whose decision would be final...

..

**zzzzz** » 2012-12-17 22:52

I don't want to sound insensitive.Thi s act is scandalous. these politicians have have no fear whatsoever of the electorate. really disgusting.

**wadadli24** » 2012-12-17 22:43

Trust me if your were in Jacqui's shoes all you will care about at this moment is recovering from cancer. Politics and her reputation will be the least thing on her mind. Reality check people, she is a minister of government not an ordinary citizen. The president of the United states, the Queen of England and the premier of China do you really believe that they are treated the same as their people.

**skyewill** » 2012-12-17 22:38

do unto others is exactally what some folks are talking about. What been done to others is not being done her. I am sure its not the money but the principal. But I'll bet no one care anything about non of those people who are left to die because we did not do unto them.

**Deliverance** » 2012-12-17 22:22

My prayers are with OUR Minister of Education Dr. Jacqui Quinn-Leandro. I know God is the greatest physician so He will make things right if it's His will.
Human will always be human some will agree and some will disagree on anything that man does.
The greatest commandment is to love one another; the golden rule (do unto others as you would have them do to you). Let's put away negativity and let's pray for all those who are sick physically, mentally, emotionally and most of all spiritually. If we cannot love one another who we see; how about God that we have never seen. God bless one & all

**Concerned Citizen** » 2012-12-17 21:58

This whole thing is a joke. Cabinet never presented invoices to the MBS board to support this callous and wanton misuse of MBS funds. I wonder if the present accountant realize that Elmeade went to jail for the same thing. She should know the laws governing MBS. This hurts me to the bone. We Antiguans need to rise up against this abuse of power. By the way did MBS contribute 1.4 Millions to the treasury to assist government with salaries? Inquiring minds want to know.

**Jimmy** » 2012-12-17 21:13

Once again let me see if I can break this down for Cool Ruler and InteresteD and the others getting three and four salaries and Board handouts:

1) Prime Minister tells Minister of Finance to get US$100,000. for their colleague!

2) Minister of Finance doesn't have it in the treasury, so he calls his wife!

3) The Chairperson of MBS (Minister of Finance wife) calls a late night meeting and "convinces" the other puppets on the Board to go along to get along by approving this unheard of amount (without invoices?)!

4) Poor Jacqui, forget the cancer for a moment, can she survive this fallout?

5) Then again she can do (like Asot) the Honourable thing by agreeing to pay it back!

6) Is it true Baldwin left today on AA (first class) to meet with a buddy for a few days? I saw John Maginley boarding the flight too!

7) In the mean time the MBS Board should be fired...just joking...that will never happen...all of them need to cover each other's backside!

**concern citizen** » 2012-12-17 20:47

The authorization of this money is cause for concern. Question is who authorized this money? Obviously, Jackie cronies authorized the money. Yes! Jackie should take the money. However, Jackie is fully well aware that there is no morality in this decision, like other decisions she and her cronies make. So, the question is the morality of Jackie and her cronies. George Orwell said all men are equal, but some men are more equal than others. Clearly, Jackie status does not make her equal with her fellow men. So, therefore, she and her cronies rightfully expect preferential priviledges to be extended to them. What is the status of the other four people who applied for assistance and were denied? I am sure they cannot equate to Jackie and her cronies. Why Antiguans pretending like they dont know the deal?

**Who Is Your Boss** » 2012-12-17 20:28

Who is our Boss politicians or the Lord when you say respect our leaders? I always believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is our leader and Boss how come politicians are your Bosses?

**ECHO** » 2012-12-17 20:17

Could somebody please answer me. Is Harold Lovell wife still the chairman of the Medical Benefits Board?

**skyewill** » 2012-12-17 19:14

so some one gave you $4000 for your soul. I sometime admire the minister. I love how she hold her own SOMETIMES. She is a beautiful, intelligent black woman and I said a prayer for her this morning when I herd the news. However, Here is the real skinny on the other side of the coin. This money is public funds and comes with rules that the average citizen can't break and it is the peoples money. We have people here who say they know people who died waiting for less tha $10,000 EC does that mean anything to you? I would proberly give the minister the money if It was up to me but i would proberly give it to anyone that needed it just to save their life. I hope if I needed it, it would come for me just as fast. or in that amount if needed. But you can't blame people for feeling the way they do cause we would let other die and say there is no money do these others deserve the same treatment in your opinion?

**tenman** » 2012-12-17 18:29

constituents its because of people like you why the country is in the state it is. All one needs to do, is give you money and they can break any rule with your agreement. Since its ok in your eyes for the tax payers to be indirectly spat on, how much less than 4K can I pay to directly come to your home and actually ** on you?

..

**DadliMan** » 2012-12-17 18:14

If the minister gave you $4,000 then bravo for you!! In case you didn't know, the minister gets a monthly Constituency Allowance to help her constituents. Low-minded people like you, who are looking for hand-outs from these politicians, perpetuate this horrendous system to which we are subjected.

The comments of the bloggers have absolutely nothing to do with Jacqui, but with the unjust manner in which the MBS board has decided to dole out OUR tax dollars. You love Jacqui because you were able to sponge some funds off her, and to hell with the poor people who the MBS board denied assistance - people who make significantly less than Jacqui Quinn, and people whose lives are just as valuable as Jacqui Quinn's.

**THINKING BIG** » 2012-12-17 17:39

To all those suffering from any form of cancer, including MP JQ my prayers goes out to you. The issue is not that anyone wants the minister to perish or suffer. We all want her to get well. What is at stake is the alarming bias and preference given unfairly to the minister as opposed to others in a similar plight but with less economic power and political ties.

Let's not break the law for the minister but uphold the MBS rules for poor people...

**Observer** » 2012-12-17 17:29

@florida - you sound like you come from the most backward part of Florida. Officials of a certain rank in the US usually carry good health insurance, which they pay for...they don't ask the taxpayers to foot their medical bills. Read up about the private health insurance carried by members of Congress and other federal employees. Although I wish Ms. Leandro well, the point is that she should not be perceived to be getting special favours from MBS while other citizens have to wait for assistance and often die, even though they contribute to the fund as well. It's simply unfair and does not make the government look good. Try not to act so dumb with your stupid remarks.

**Donkey** » 2012-12-17 17:21

Don't play yourself as a fool! The Dry Hill man was wrong to get the MBS cheque, and he paid it back! This is wrong also! Baldwin and John just flew off island this afternoon on AA - first class - of course!

**my way of helping** » 2012-12-17 16:49

and because that was done, it makes this right, if this was wrong? us as people, one day we all will get what we deserve, we all.

**tyrone** » 2012-12-17 16:28

sorry I sent before I was finished. I believe this strong, beautiful, intelligent woman has a lot to offer and I see great things ahead for her including a powerful testimony. maybe she will be the very one to change the current ceiling. Have Faith my sister. You are like Esther.....call ed "for such a time as this."

**tyrone** » 2012-12-17 16:24

On behalf of my family I wish the Minister of Education a speedy recovery. God"s richest blessings go with you. Stay positive.

**conscious** » 2012-12-17 16:21

Do any of you bloggers remembDr when Axxxx xxxxl got thousands of medical benefits money to staple his stomach? Cosmetic surgery! so what is wrong with our education minister getting help in a critical illness. How soon we forget!

**florida** » 2012-12-17 16:17

Hey you guys in backward Antigua. this is the norm for officials of a certain rank all over the world. the story said this woman is a senior minister, in charge of education and she has acted as Prime Minister. That is enough for her to get this and more for a very serious illness. Get real Antigua. In the mean time,keep the faith Madam Minister.

**constituents** » 2012-12-17 16:12

well I always knew Antigua people love ugly. these ministers pay far more in taxes than many people so why shouldn't they get more? I have a personal testimony that my representative Dr. Jacqui Quinn gave me $4,000 of her own money when I had a family emergency and I know there are many others she has personally assisted. My family and I vote for her so we vote with medical benefits to get her back in parliament to represent st. Georges people. Get well Jacqui. we love you in Blizzard

**Butters** » 2012-12-17 16:11

Its so sad to here about,Ms Lendro my prayers goes out to her but at the same time Sir Prince Ramsey is sick with cancer also he has done so much for Antigua/barbuda people you would think the government will help him too but no way is it because he not a government minister he has done a lot more he deserves better treatment fom our so call government wish you a speedy recovery Sir Prince love you much get well soon.

**Cool Ruler** » 2012-12-17 15:32

Let me take this opportunity to wish Jackie a speedy recovery. Knowing how the major hospitals in the USA work, in that they will not touch you unless you have insurance or if payment is guaranteed. The public perception that the matter was fast tracked because of the status of the individual may be justified, especially since I know of persons in similar position who had applied for assistance and had to wait months before getting the sum granted.
In any event at least the monies are not being given to have her stomas stapled like they did with the man from dry hill who could more than afford it

**my way of helping** » 2012-12-17 14:58

it is should be getting this fine lady well and not putting her above anyone else. i remember their was this government official who said, i will not take anything that my subjects will not be given.

I hate this world, i can't stand us as humans and i pray God's will be done

**Spanish** » 2012-12-17 13:45

Antigua ppl have no respect for their leaders. Look at Chavez and Thompson. Look at the support and concern. We are too callous. This talk should be about getting this fine lady well, not this gutter sniping. Bravo doctor Quinn. much respect!

**DadliMan** » 2012-12-17 13:40

This type of injustice has become the norm because the politicians have made certain that they control every facet of the system. At MBS, for example, the Chairperson is a Minister's wife. Conflict of interest anyone? Of course, anything the politicos want will be provided by the wife of the minister without any questions asked.

Funny enough, we have not heard an official peep from the opposition. Apparently, the New Labour is the same Old Labour in different clothes. When Asot Michael got his belly stapled at MBS' expense, the then opposition made a huge deal of it. I guess the leader of New Labour cannot say anything about this since Asot is his sidekick.

**Boysie** » 2012-12-17 13:36

My Minister needs to know prayer changes things. My whole family is praying for you. Don't bother with all this chatter now. Just pray and believe and you will come back and be our first female Prime Minister. We love you strong woman of Faith.

**Tiny** » 2012-12-17 13:31

Go with God Dr. Quinn. we are praying for you.

**Barbershop** » 2012-12-17 13:29

I voted for this woman. I love her. my entire family in barneshill love her and we wish her well. she deserve whatever. we vote her there and we want her get better to vote she back again and again! Tek dat Caribarena and all you haters.

**Voice of reason** » 2012-12-17 13:24

ministers pay taxes just like all of us, social security, medical benefits, social security and education levy. so why shouldn't they benefit. besides I know at least three persons who got far more than the minister for the same cancer treatment.

**fnpsr** » 2012-12-17 13:18

There are so any things wrong in Antigua, that in order to fix anyone of them, it would require you to look at the entire system, because if you attempt to fix one thing, such as healthcare, it will definitely impact something else. But, let me say again, it can be done. What is needed is the will to fix things and not just talk about fixing things.

“Let’s fix the little things with RWE before we attempt to fix the big things."

**fnpsr** » 2012-12-17 13:17

I will say that it can be done. When you look at all of the money wasted on projects, such as the fencing project, just to name one, and I am sure you can list others, you will see that it can be done. Furthermore everyone will have to contribute and contribute timely. Additionally, the government would have to make an annual allocation different and apart from its mandatory contribution to the scheme.

This article also gives us the opportunity to look at the healthcare system in general. Something must be said, that when persons of means and government officials need medical attention, they leave the island. This does not say very much for the healthcare system. Therefore, it is time to put the resources in the MSJMC and bring it up to standard so that ALL citizens can get adequate medical attention. It can be done!!

**fnpsr** » 2012-12-17 13:14

My heart goes out to the Hon. MP. I wish her well and a speedy recovery. I am sure the last thing on her mind at this time is money. Uppermost in her mind is survival. This is a devastating and costly disease and I am sure she may have already exhausted any savings she might have had; thus the need for the money. It would be unconscionable for the Hon. MP to have substantial savings and ask the good people of Antigua to pay for her medical care. I doubt it very much!

While many have opined about the disparate treatment received by the MP, I believe that some good can come out of it. It seems to me that the ceiling is now set and this could be reworked to a new policy. I would make the LIFETIME benefit for each person $250K. This is the same amount that was given to the Hon. MP. What is good for goose is good for the gander!

Some will dismiss this as nonsense and irresponsible. They will say we can’t even afford to pay $10K, how are we going to pay $250K when it is needed? They will also say the scheme does not collect enough money. They will give a hundred and one reasons why this cannot be done.

i » 2012-12-17 12:58

I have my own business and I will not pay another red cent to MBS or SS. They do nonsense with our money then ask you to pay more to fund more crap. They will have to lock me up first before they get another dollar. Antiguans need to stand up against what is going on.

**2 Cents** » 2012-12-17 12:46

Why is it you UPP sweatwipers claim to right the wrong but always seek to justift your wrongs by claiming the the ALP did it too? Then why the hell did the people vote you in power? Since when two wrongs makes for one right?

You folks are truly immoral at the very core. This is a horrific scandalous act of tw0-faced treatment, one of disregard for poor sick people and another of raping the public purse for a rich MP. This can't be right in the sight of God...

**skyewill** » 2012-12-17 12:26

I have not recalled so many comments in such a short time- Observation can be an important tool for understanding the individual or a group being **sed. Sampling is the time you a lot to doing the actual observation. The first type of sampling is EVENT SAMPLING – viewing and **sment of a targeted event without regard for time. TIME SAMPLING- This is when the subject being observed is **sed for a predetermined and limited amount of time. For the sake of convenience both time and event sampling are usually done at the same time. CONCLUSION- Poor people are the wallet for those above the law. Nothing anyone here is saying matters to the powers in charge. They make you pay by enacting laws that they have not intention to follow and even though they don’t pay in and they take what they want when they want, they will force you using the law, police and justice system to make you comply. Slavery have not left our shores not yet, I’m sure.

**grassroots** » 2012-12-17 11:55

What bothers me is that the Ministers and Government DOES NOT MAKE ANY PAYMENTS TO Medical Benefits but the employee can benefit to the tune of US$100,000.00. And then the other statutory bodies like SS turn around and want to increase the contributions for the private sector employees to save the Schemes. Save them from the Government Ministers because this treatment is available in Antigua and can be successfully treated here for much less than US$100,000.00. I know of women who have had successful breast cancer treatment right here in Antigua. I guess that the Minister's health is more important than the g**roots people. Lord! Save Antigua please!

**Have Mercy!** » 2012-12-17 11:49

wow! So in Antigua you either have to have the right last name, know the right people, wear "blue shoes" or be related to "high society" neargah.

How pathetic is this? Will I be afforded the same "benefits" if (God forbid) I were to fall seriously ill?

Have mercy Lord. Have mercy indeed.

**Garrat** » 2012-12-17 11:49

i remember when Hugh Marshall Snr was chairman of MBS he caused the Board to lend assistance to a subscriber to the scheme, of EC$20,000. Julian Rogers on Observer Radio questioned him and stated that his actions and that of the Board was illegal. Marshall, I can remember, in defending the Boards action said he was not going to let sick people die without getting the help.Remember? UPP demanded his removal from the Board so what are we waiting for.the Chairperson should be asked to resign. However, minister, i wish God' s healing hands on you.

**Observer** » 2012-12-17 11:37

@United States, You make no sense at all. Of course she is subject to special scrutiny as a public official who is using taxpayers’ monies to fund her medical expenses. People can sympathize with her illness without losing sight of the fact that what has happened is a travesty of justice to all the other people who do not have the special privileges she has. If you live in the United States as your moniker suggests, you should know that better than most. Since you know of others who have been given similar amounts by the MBS, why don't you let us know who they are. I suspect you know no one else. Your comments are shallow and your attacks on the professional reporting of the facts by Caribarena fall flat.

**H from Greenbay** » 2012-12-17 11:31

How is this justified? Does the MBS have a special enhanced coffer for politicians & dignitaries? Does she not have private medical insurance? Surely on her salary she can afford it rather than dipping into a pot that should be covering the more vulnerable and needy members of our community.

**Antigua Bill** » 2012-12-17 11:16

Could the seriousness of her condition be prevented? has she been negligent in caring for her own health and now has burdened the people of Antigua with this unconscionable sum for her care? There is no excuse, she is educated and she is smart. There is such a thing as preventive maintenance (medicine) I had a breast cancer scare about 2 years ago and since them have had follow up exams, refuse to wait until I feel another lump. I am a man and never expected that. Went to the urologist a few weeks ago and the doctor observed some unusual cells which he said could be cancer cells and ordered a cat scan. Everything is ok, nothing to worry about. It cost me $50.00 copay I did this because I wanted a second opinion. Prostate cancer and breast cancer I believe are preventable and treatable when detected in the early stages. I wish her a speedy recovery but I also think that she should be made to reimburse the GOAB. She can afford it, xx xx xx xx

**DadliMan** » 2012-12-17 11:09

For those who think this is not the forum to discuss the public purse, you are completely missing the point. We all wish the Minister a speedy recovery, but it certainly appears as if her life is more valuable that those of poor people who the same board denied financial assistance.

I don't know the minister's financial situation or whether she can afford medical assistance, but that is not my business. When those politically appointed hypocrites on the board can sentence poor people to death by denying them assistance, but at the same time can expedite a wire transfer of US$100,000 for the minister, then the system stinks to high heaven.

**Village Boi** » 2012-12-17 10:59

@United States

You are tell Caribarena to be responible, take a look in ur front yard befoore u go and tell others to be responible. Caribarena is doing their job to inform the ppl of what is happening and taking place in our country. If caribarena did not inquiry to the minister the ppl of this good nation would not know including ur self that the good minister is sick. And note as well the minister is a employee of the state so that means we as the employer(the people) dont know one of our employee r sick. And this is crazy u approve 100KUS for one people and denid 40.000 EC for four ppl its the prinicple of the matter as well .

**keith crowe** » 2012-12-17 10:56

I hope everyone who finds giving someone who can affort to pay their medical bill a 100.000 us okay never have any family member sick,b cause I'll b praying they don't get.(Upp fools).wishing her all the best.

**Village Boi** » 2012-12-17 10:49

First I would like to wish the Minister Speedy recovery and all the best cause it would not be easy. Secondly, to those ppl that r saying this is not the time to discuss this situration, tell my ass when is a good time please? me beg u tell me ........me heart bun me when we hear 100K US and 4 other ppl are asking for 10K EC ......we as a ppl need to stop this ** in supporting wrong. Government dont pay contribution too MBS, so why shoud the good Minister be entitle to money in MBS and the ppl that pay into the scheme cant get a dime.........an d I am sure the Minister had health insurance but i guess from her request it was not enough........W e say it was wrog under ALP, so why do some of u thing it is right under UPP.....that is why our country will be no better than what it is because of siturations like this and alot of us supporting it because they party in power ........What goes for one goes for all........me heart bun me to see four person ask for 10,000EC which amounts to 40,000 EC and the minister get 250,000EC subtract 40,000 and u get 210,000. We as a nation turn a blind eye and that is why things will be no better

**Instigator** » 2012-12-17 10:39

Yes it is indeed quite disheartening to hear about the Minister's illness. However, I am inclined to point out that these ministers are exempted from taxes like the rest of us and the same manner in which the board have dealt with others no minister should be exempted from such treatment. I have known of many instances *even personal with family members* where assistance was sought and nothing was given for what ever reason especially to individuals who were not as well off as Minister Leandro.

**Kemisha** » 2012-12-17 10:26

When will this stop? When will we begin to get equal rights and justice in this land? The minister earns a salary that can more than afford her medical while others earn a salary thats a small fraction of the minister and cant get help from Medical Benefit. I feel it really bad because my Mom was one of them! This seems to be the culture around here...........

**wow!** » 2012-12-17 10:22

ANTIGUA IS TRULY A GANSTER PARADISE NOT A 100 000 EC BUT US DOLLAR NOT EVEN HALF WHY THEY DIDN'T BORROW MONEY FROM MBS TO PAY TEACHERS

**Dax Rebel** » 2012-12-17 10:18

As a former Prime Minister, former Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, and current Member of Parliament, is Lester Bird, with over 30 years in Parliament, eligible for the same assistance provided to MP Leandro?

**Youthful Labourite** » 2012-12-17 10:17

Dear Sir/Madam, I hope if sickness is ever to befall you- That you can go to medical benefits and claim even a quarter of what the Minister has received!

Leaving party politics out of it, the money at MBS should be shared for all, equally not just those in authority should get the Cream, while the poor little child with a brain, lung, heart disorder can't see a penny from government or MBS and is left to beg on public radio and on the streets of st. john's for help!

**UNITED STATES** » 2012-12-17 10:10

It would appear that this story is about the monies.Instead, the story should be about the individual and the disease.She is a public figure.However it is a personal matter and privacy should be respected.It is my belief that she would address this matter when she sees fit.Caribarena, there are jounalists and then there are jounalists.I believe the MBS have given monies to others of such a magnitude.Those names were never published.Did you write this story because she is a politician.I do not know this lady Ms.Leandro.I do not like gutter snipe journalists.Be professionals in your reporting.

**Youthful Labourite** » 2012-12-17 10:09

I read in amazement that the MBS board would convene on such short notice to consider BAILING OUT the ailing Minister. I empathize with Quinn-Leandro (if she is still married to her husband) but I am utterly against Government's funds being used in this haphazzard way just to satisfy a need to a Minister!!!

There are several persons, plenty of them children and toddlers in need of medical care and MBS has given them the run-around for years, some even die with their condition before they see a dime from MBS which we all work hard to fund.

The poor will stay poor and die sick, while those in authority and their friends will continue to use our hard-earn money for them only.

Share the wealth for all of us, NOT just some! Short Shirt sang, "If honey in this rock, (Give ALL of Us) a share"!

The UPP will also be judged for taking care of its close friends and not the poor public it was elected to serve!!! However, Shortie also sang, "This government will fall, the Handwriting is on the wall"!!!

**Barbuda voice** » 2012-12-17 10:00

Cancer is listed as one of the nine illnesses covered by Medical benefits. why shouldn't a minister of the government benefit ? Has anyone checked to see if she has health insurance? Maybe she does not. We treat our elected officials like shot while everywhere else in the world they are treated well without these petty debates. fix medical benefits if we have to but certainly the minister deserves this and more. check Chavez in Venezuela. come on my people. Barbuda wishes you well my sister.

**bjsm** » 2012-12-17 09:54

wait wha really rang wid some ah aru??? u ppl seems to forget that dis woman work for one tun ah money not the half dead 2000 or 3000 dalla dat most of us work for... she mek load ah money..and she in office for over 8 years now so do the math... she can afford this on her own... poor ppl out dey dat cant even get cent one from dem die everyday because they refuse to help our kind.. and u telling me she deserve the money for the help and even more.. jus mussa min ah swing upside dung inna one tree and jap pan fu u head man... u sick!

**labourite** » 2012-12-17 09:50

All lives are equally precious and important.May the Lord bless the poor and heal the sick.

**Osbert R. Frederick** » 2012-12-17 09:44

I know of someone who had to go abroad for medical treatment and upon return submitted a bill of EC$14,000 to MBS. They got back EC$4,000. The same individual has to go back and they submitted the cost to the government and is told to wait until January, The cost this time is less than ten percent of what the good minister got. No one is concerned if this person will survive untiol January. But monies were discussed, approved and wired off in less than 24 hours. God help us. I hope they remember that not very long ago, someeone was sent to prison for MBS money. History has a way of repeating itself. All of them wanted this man to go to prison. Let us see what will happen now. I wish the lady a speedy recovery if it is God's will.

**Faithful national** » 2012-12-17 09:31

I do believe the time has come for MBS to raise its ceiling on grants so that everyone may benefit. But I see nothing wrong with assisting the good Minister in this life and death health matter.She deserves it and more. DON'T GET me wrong everyone does. Get we'll soon Dr. Quinn. We have work for you.

**THE AFFECTED** » 2012-12-17 09:29

MY BIG SISTER AND A GOOD FRIEND DIED WHILE THEY COULD NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT APPROACHING MEDICAL BENEFIT BECAUSE THE SCHEME OPINE DAILY OFTHEIR IN ABILITY TO PROVIDE THE MEDICINE NEEDED FOR CLINICS.

I WISH THE MINISTER A SPEEDY RECOVERY AND FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO UNDERSTAND THAT SICKNESS IS NOT LIMITED TO CERTAIN PEOPLE, ALL CAN BE AFFLICTED AT ANY TIME. THE SAD THING MAY BE NOT ALL WILL BE ABLE TO GET U$100,000 FOR A FIGHTING CHANCE TO LIVE FOR THEIR FAMILIES.

IT IS NOT MY DECISION FOR HER TO GET THE $. NEITHER IS MY DECISION FOR HER TO GET BETTER AFTER SHE HAS SPENT ALL THE $!!!

**Potters buff** » 2012-12-17 09:25

Is this a news story Caribarena? Bravo my favourite Minister!

**Antiguan Abroad** » 2012-12-17 09:21

From a human perspective, I will say that the minister has a long difficult road ahead of her. Cancer is a disease that is not a respecter of wealth, position and privilege. Depending on the stage she caught the cancer, she may have a fighting chance to overcome the disease. However, if it is already at Stage 4, it cannot be cured. However, it can be treated and she can hopefully have a pain-free existence for the remainder of her life.

Although the MBS fiasco leaves a sour taste in most people's mouths, I can assure you that $100K will be merely a drop in the bucket if she is to have quality medical care to fight this disease. That is why health insurance is so important - these type of chronic illnesses can literally bankrupt people who were once well off.

The one pertinent question I have is....why Atlanta? I know of no superior cancer treatment centers there. Why not NY, PA, MD, CA, etc? There are centers like Sloan Kettering, Johns Hopkins, U of Penn, etc., where she would have access some of the most brilliant specialists in the world.

**New Winthorpes resid** » 2012-12-17 09:19

All the best Doc from all your constituents. we love you. Be strong and come back and fight for us. God speed!

**st.George constituen** » 2012-12-17 09:15

is this really the time for a discussion on this? given the seriousness of the minister"s health? are we so heartless in this country? David Thompson, in Barbados, Hugo Chavez in Venezuela and others have all suffered from this and gotten support of their country. why are we so mean spirited in this country. isn't she the first and only elected female? I agree that the limit should be raised for all people but surely this is not the time for this kind of venom. all the best minister Quinn- Leandro to you and your family at this most difficult time

**Invisible Hand** » 2012-12-17 09:10

What is troubling to me is the deafening silence that I hear from the Leader of the Opposition. What happened to standing up for poor people and speaking out against this kind of corrupt double standard. I was promised a leader who has principles and will always oppose this kind of injustice agains the poor.

School children say that the opposition Leader and his new sidekick, Disco Dumplin are in Miami buying Xmas toys for constituents. Please do not forget the hams and turkeys that go with that.

Disco Dumplin used to do the same thing for his fallen mentor (Lester Bird), who is recovering from the metaphorical knife that disco Dumplin left in his back.

Gaston, it seems like if you are waiting to become prime minister to start leading. If you do not become effective in opposition and start showing leadership now, you will not get there.

Remember what the side kick obeah woman in Guadeloupe say.

**BLEEDING** » 2012-12-17 09:04

No one can fly in the face of sickness and none knows their hour of affliction. Hence, none may rejoice.

There are those, however, who lived the best of both worlds-good salaries and privileges-free utilities, vehicles, perdiums and medical before affliction, while the poor and needy refused or begs for assistance, and left to suffer or die.

They bled the treasury, Social Security and now they are bleeding Medical benefits. It's a cruel world full of uncaring elected people.

**tenman** » 2012-12-17 08:59

I wish the MP all the best. This issue also underlies something the UPP broke their promise to fix. The MBS inquiry commissioners recommended converting this body to offer comprehensive health insurance. They stated the contributions more than covered this. Yet today the MBS website FAQ states (mbs.gov.ag/information/faq.php):
Quote:

What is the maximum for reimbursement for overseas treatment? E.C $2,000.00 plus the cost of the airline ticket.

.

..

**Renee** » 2012-12-17 08:55

I agree.....Money is not all, sometimes... even-though I am sure that a regular person like me and you would not have gotten that large amount but it is very much a need and she has given a lot to out country and I do not see anything wrong with her getting the assistance I am sure she needs. I can remember upon leaving for University almost three year ago she helped me with getting trough to someone who would not have done so if it did not go through her ......so I wish her a speedy recovery to head back to help the children of tomorrow.

**Jimmy** » 2012-12-17 08:50

This is a very troubling situation. Each one of her Cabinet Colleagues could have chipped in US$10,000 to make the total.

**LINNEL** » 2012-12-17 08:32

Sickness is for anyone so I understand that side of the issue with the good Minister. BUT ME SAY A DAMN ADVANTAGE WHEN SHE GET APPROXIMATELY EC TWO, FIVE, ZERO, ZERO,ZERO, ZERO, ZERO, ZERO ($250,000.00) WHEN OTHER POOR PEOPLE CAN NOT GET NONE OR GET LIKKLE AND NOTHING. A DAMN ADVANTAGE. And she and she "other people" and dem have the gall to criticize A.L.P.? OH GOD!!!

**Antigua Bill** » 2012-12-17 08:18

We see exactly why the politicians don't give a damn.

**Antigua Bill** » 2012-12-17 08:15

I wish the good MP a speedy recovery. I must also say that I hope reremembers where the funds came from to pay for her much needed treatment. Is it OK to milk the cow on he hump of the people who elected you to represent them?

**Ms. Scotland** » 2012-12-17 08:00

Very sad to hear that the minister is suffering from breast cancer. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family. The $100K does sound exorbitant, but that is a story for another day.

**Fireworks** » 2012-12-17 07:36

I'm truly sorry to hear about Minister Quin-Leandro's health situation and I do pray for God's intervention and wish her a full and speedy recovery.

But, if the content of this story is true, it's not only sounds and looks bad,... But it is very wrong. It is very wrong.

JB » 2012-12-17 07:26

My sympathies to Mrs. Leandro...as a woman, I am one who would always support the good health of women...However , I find it rather unfair that others would have asked for much less, and have been refused. I'm sure this lady, has health insurance, or other means of acquiring these funds or a good amount of it. The more, I live here, the more I see that slavery is rapidly returning to Antigua. I wish her a speedy recovery, and good health. Hope all goes well. But, I must reiterate that giving her this amount, is unfair, when others are suffering and begging for much less and are constantly denied.

**Morris** » 2012-12-17 07:23

Though I an very sorry to learn of the the minister's ordeal with this terrible disease, I am very disappointed to learn of the disparate treatment MBS has meted, and is meting, to regular citizens with similar conditions. Then we are urged to believe that politics played no part in any of this. Whatever! The citizens who requested assistance in the past (many died waiting for assistance) may not have been elected to public office, but that doesn't make their needs any less important than that of JQL's, they also deserved the same consideration and hasty response.

**Antiguan Abroad** » 2012-12-17 07:18

This issue has little to do with the devastating effects and costs associated with breast cancer treatment....it is again solely about stark and unvarnished government corruption. I guess her life is more valuable than other applicants for medical benefits grants? To the families of those citizens with a desperate need for financial assistance, I doubt they'd share these sentiments. The story of this minister's heath condition would likely have garnered more public sympathy if the rules were not broken to accommodate her, as seems to be the expectation of all these politicians in Antigua - no matter which side they're on. Even the "opposition figures" who commented on the situation are strangely more concerned about her health condition than the fact she was able to immediately get more than 26 times the limits normally granted by the MBS - more than any of their constituents would have received. If they’re all so concerned, why don’t they pool their ill-gotten resources to assist her? Incidentally, why doesn’t she have quality health insurance? Undoubtedly, she can afford it. The farce in Antigua goes on and on. But as the old saying goes..."Karma's a bit@%”!

**lionman** » 2012-12-17 06:55

what's new lol, Antiguans not going to oppose the misuse of government positions and privileges that would not be rendered to them. citizens are so use to being treated as peasants to those who consider themselves elite. Antiguans are so conditioned and disciplined to accept being place last by people with money and authority. people cannot attain medical assistance because they do not have the money but a politician who already reap many benefits will immediately be considered for a hefty grant, whether or not they said the grant was denied, oh well whats new it shows you whose life is more valued.

**wonetta** » 2012-12-17 06:28

get well soon ms leandro , for what it is worth there is no price to big or small for ones health...
regardles of the politic in the island i say get well soon and beat that monster ( CANCER) i have lost many friend to this and i wish it upon no one ... so just beat it!

**1234** » 2012-12-17 06:05

Well I'm not going to be coy. I'm sorry that jacqui has cancer and I wish her a speedy recovery. But how is that right? When I read the story it broke my heart because I have known persons that have DIED because MBS did not give them even. 25c. Ask breast friends how many persons suffering with breast cancer that mammoth amount would help? Didn't jacqui have medical insurance. I hope she recovers and pays back the money so that other cancer suffers will be given a chance to win the fight against cancer.

**skyewill** » 2012-12-17 06:03

This is a tough one but here goes: First I hope and pray the Minister will be successful with her medical issues and come home safely. But this is still another example of how the BIG live off the poor. In almost every situation in Antigua, if you are not connected you will suffer while others in power live off your hard earned money. The same thing happened at SS and APUA, Duty and other Taxes. If my granny sick will she get the same consideration? Everyone should!

**Concerned Citizen** » 2012-12-17 05:42

How can this be? An inquiry was held in MBS, it was wrong then for MBS to be giving people monies over the limit for medical attention. It's still wrong to be giving people that kind of monies when the act sets a maximum limit. Other people has to abide by the set limit for overseas medical. Are government officials above the law? THe whole board should be made to resign over this. They have acted in a callous way with our monies.

**1ken** » 2012-12-17 05:14

First of all, Madam Leandro, I hope you have a full recovery and the best of health in the future.

Now when the Ministers of Parliment say pay, you pay, no matter how much you know it is wrong, and there will be no inquiry into this for "a fu me decision,a me a de big man, your cheif servant and the bucks stops with me".

**poor man** » 2012-12-17 04:22

just tell me y she the minister must get 100.00us dollars an poor man have to go to mount st.john an dead.she dont have medical insurance ?y we the ppl must pay her bill.i can rem somebody ask the same minister for help when the wife had breast cancer an she never help the family .but you see god dont sleep she have it now.mbs is a reap off when you spent 25000 to do same breast cancer surgery mbs give back the family 1200 dollars.can the mbs board tell the world what the diffrence between her life an other ppl.

**Taxed Out** » 2012-12-17 03:54

This speaks volumes... I sympathise with the situation of the Minister, but it must never be one rule for one and another for others, especially when others are less fortunate and really in need... If anything this situation should show the Government how expensive health care is and how much the cap on MBS needs to be removed and replaced with a wider discretion by MBS to consider each application on its merit and to assist not with 100% financing necessarily, but rather with a percentage sufficient to offer assistance to those in need.

To the Minister I wish you a speedy recovery...to those who are in need and have not received any worthwhile assistance form MBS may they now see the wisdom in removing the cap and giving you the same or similar opportunity of health care like the Minister!!!

**Dave** » 2012-12-17 03:32

It's just money ,hope she gets well soon.and always remember people the poor always suffer,and remember you are not needed on earth

**No Last Name** » 2012-12-17 03:23

While I understand where the author of this article is coming from, I am not sure that now is the time to have this debate given the sensitivity of the matter.
Despite our political affiliation, let us wish the Minister and all those suffering with this disease a speedy recovery.

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