I am just amazed to read and hear the reactions of those who say they are upset that the Cuban medical personnel are leaving Jamaica. They put themselves in a self-righteous position because they were concerned for poor people.
The media is no better either. Many media people are not into objective reporting but use words which clearly show that they are carrying a line. One reporter claimed that gratitude cannot bring back the Cubans. I believe he was referring to statements made by Minister Tufton.
Where were they when our local doctors were complaining about the conditions of work and the need for more staff? The cop-out solution was just to get medical personnel from Cuba. We turned a blind eye to how the Cuban government engaged these people to come to Jamaica.
After 50 years we should have sponsored the training of medical personnel who should be bonded to serve in Jamaica for a specified time. We should also sponsor the training of medical specialists. We cannot have a situation where only the children of the rich can do medicine. A few of our people have been able to go to Cuba, Russia, and Ukraine, where the cost of training is less.
Some of you have started to resurrect Michael Manley and democratic socialism, and your love for Cuba. The days of Michael Manley and democratic socialism are gone, never to return.
Anybody working in Jamaica, and especially if they are working with the state, must follow the labour laws of the land. Cuba cannot dictate to Jamaica how these workers are treated under the law. First, they are expected to pay the relevant taxes on the salaries paid directly to them. I understand that the government pays their salaries in US dollars to the Cuban government. I also understand that the Cuban medical personnel's passports are also taken from them while they are working here.
Can you imagine a private person engaging in that type of cooperation with the Jamaican government and getting away with it? That would definitely be seen as human trafficking. Many are bringing pressure on the Jamaican government for these Cuban doctors and nurses to stay. Why is pressure not put on the Cuban government to comply with our laws?
The Cuban leaders are playing tough, but they have some questions to answer. How many political prisoners have they detained in Cuba, and for how long? What percentage of the pay the doctors and nurses receive from the government goes to these workers? Why does the Cuban government confiscate the workers' passports while they are on the island?
Mark my words, the world is changing, and Cuba does not have a choice; it has to change also. Russia and China will not take up Cuba's burden. The little humanitarian gifts being given to Cuba at this time cannot deal with their national challenges.
Those writing letters and sending out press releases giving Cuba support should understand that the situation is like a massive avalanche coming at Cuba, and only Cuba can deal with the situation.
When Cuba changes, I see the people of that country becoming great partners to Jamaicans. There is a lot we can learn from them. A new day is coming for Cuba, but I cannot say if it will be a better day.
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Jazz In The Gardens
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