Goa dy Speaker wants non-performing ministers relieved

Goa Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo today said he would request Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, arriving tomorrow from the US after three months of medical treatment, to replace "ailing" and "non-performing" ministers to ensure good governance in the BJP-ruled state.

Parrikar is expected to hold a Cabinet meeting on June 15 and meet the BJP legislators.

"I would convey feedback of the people to the CM. I request him to replace the ailing and non-performing ministers or reallocate their portfolios," said the BJP MLA who represents Calangute constituency.

Responding to a question, Lobo said he did not consider the chief minister as ailing.

"Goans want good governance and that can be done only when ministers perform. Some ministers are non-performers while some have health issues," Lobo said while refusing to name anyone.

Currently, Urban Development Minister Francis D'Souza is out of country for medical check up while Power Minister Pandurang Madkaikar remains admitted in a hospital in Mumbai after suffering brain stroke.

"Those ministers who are not in good health should quit on their own and look after their health," he said.

The BJP-led state government is supported by the Goa Forward Party (GFP), Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), each having three MLAs, besides as many independents.