Governor Jorginho Mello, accompanied by Minister of Health Carmem Zanotto and several deputies and senators of the Parliamentary Forum of Santa Catarina met with Minister of Health Nicia Trindade. The meeting, held on Tuesday afternoon (13) at the ministry’s headquarters in Brasilia, was to discuss the state’s health care deficit of 550 million reais.

Retinue from Santa Catarina in a meeting with the Minister of Health to ask for resources. The state’s annual deficit is 550 million reais. – Photo: Danila Bernardes/ND+

The state government requires the Ministry of Health to make monthly transfers of 45 million reais, which is the total deficit for the year. “The difference between what we produce and what we get is historic. We think this is unfair. We need the government to recognize that Santa Catarina makes and receives that difference. We strive to minimize this difference,” the governor said.

From what was reported by the delegation present at the meeting, the Minister accepted the request, but its implementation depends on budgetary conditions. However, Jorginho said he was looking forward to a significant transfer.

Secretary of State for Health Carmem Zanotto said that expectations were high for the 45 million reais for the recovery soon. “This will help, because either the municipal health fund or the state fund pays for the procedures, and we produce 115% more than we receive. With these resources, we will even be able to expand the service offering and range of activities beyond planned operations,” the secretary explained.

Time frame

In Brasilia, Jorginho Mello also met with President of the Senate Rodrigo Pacheco to discuss a bill setting deadlines for indigenous lands. This LP has already been approved by the Chamber of Deputies and is awaiting a vote at the plenary session of the Senate.

Jorginho said he asked the president to put the proposal to a vote as soon as possible. There is a pending approval, just like in the House. “We need to find a common denominator. We have municipalities in Santa Catarina where 50% of the city will be indigenous, which can be demarcated.”

He also hopes that the Presidents of the Senate and the House will formulate before the STF (Federal Supreme Court) a decision on the issue, which was delayed for 90 days after Minister André Mendons asked for his opinion.

“The STF is the highest court, but judging by our conversations, the National Congress needs to take a step. It was approved by the House, if approved by the Senate, it materializes the position that was just considered in the Constitution,” the governor said.