After recent talks of the implementation of National Health Insurance (NHI), Deputy Leader of the Democratic National Alliance (DNA) Chris Mortimer said while some form of Universal Health Care is needed, NHI makes no sense.

During the DNA’s press conference on Wednesday, Mr. Mortimer addressed a few matters that he and DNA Leader Branville McCartney believe should be fixed.

Focusing on NHI, Mr. Mortimer said there are a number of things that need to be completed before the government can even think of implementing NHI.

“I think it is important for the government to understand that there is a sequence to things,” he said.

“We have to fix the economy. We have to create well-paying jobs for our people. We have to broaden the tax base, and then we can begin to implement things like National Health Insurance.”

In his argument, Mr. Mortimer explained that Bahamians haven’t recovered from value-added tax (VAT) as yet. He added that it is way too soon to implement another form of tax.

“They’re going to bring National Health Insurance right now,” he asked.

“Are they serious? Do they even care about our country? I want them to be mindful too that bad tax policies on their part are also factors in a lot of the issues that the country is having. I think if they understand that then they will know that National Health Insurance is something to be tried three or even maybe four years after the line. But, oh no, definitely not right now!”

Mr. Mortimer said he hopes the government makes the right choice for the people and not just themselves. He said if NHI is implemented, thousands would be negatively impacted.