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MINISTER of Culture Michelle Benjamin said the State plans to provide monetary assistance to legendary calypsonian Baron (Timothy Watkins), who she says is ailing and has been placed in a care facility.

Benjamin spoke of a potential policy to aid local artists in their time of need, and noted the presence of Watkin’s wife, Sherma, during a United National Congress (UNC) press conference at the party’s Chaguanas headquarters yesterday. She said Watkins had been undergoing some medical challenges and would benefit from some assistance moving forward to aid with medicine and care.

“Some investigation from my office and my mediation department would have happened and I am in talks with regards to the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO), and we intend to present him with a monetary value to help with his medical bills. I am sad to announce that he was placed in a home. The funds given to him are to help with regards to his upkeep and his medical bills and medication,” Benjamin said.