NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Minister of Health Renward Wells confirmed yesterday that his driver and personal assistant who received just over $1,100 as an honorarium payment for working during the coronavirus pandemic, returned the funds to the government at his request.

He said contrary to social media reports that the pair were paid $5,000, both received $1,158.40, which was in line with non-front line staff.

Wells insisted that he did receive an honorarium and said a select committee in the Ministry of Health recommended who should be paid the funds.

“Today, I have asked both my driver and personal assistant to return the $1,158.40 that was disbursed to them from The Bahamas government,” he said in a statement.

“They have agreed and have returned the amount disbursed to them.

“My brother and sisters, I would also like to advise that I made no recommendations as to who should receive an honorarium.

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