(Trinidad Guardian) Slinger Francisco, the Mighty Sparrow, who placed T&T on the world stage with his famous classically executed double entendre hits, is still awaiting assistance for his medical bills.
During a press conference held at the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union Paramount Headquarters yesterday, president general Ancel Roget said he was disappointed that Sparrow did not get the financial assistance promised to him last year. He said Sparrow was hospitalised for three months in the United States in September 2013, after suffering a stroke. In February, during a function in Siparia, promises were made that his bills would be footed by the State.
However, Roget said Sparrow came to Trinidad on August 26 expecting to get a cheque to pay his overseas expenses. “He left empty-handed. It is grossly unfortunate that over one year later, the Mighty Sparrow’s medical bills have not been paid. We have information that they were in contact with him and agreed to a figure but they never delivered on their promise,” Roget said. He explained that Sparrow has medical bills every month and was very distressed over his financial situation.
“The medical expenses incurred has put him in a difficult financial position,” Roget explained. “It is wrong, immoral and a blow to culture that a national icon who contributed enormously to the T&T image worldwide has to suffer in this way. A public commitment was made but medical bills remain unpaid.
Sparrow, who lives in Jamaica in Queens, New York, said, “I hope to get what was promised to me a long time ago.” Asked what his monthly bills were, Sparrow said, “My bills are heavy.” Sparrow was given T&T’s highest award, the Order of the Republic of T&T,” in 2014, for his contribution to culture.