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Castro Calls for More Work, Less Welfare

Cuban president cuts worker subsidies to shore up struggling economy

By Wesley Oliver, Newser Staff

Posted Dec 28, 2008 4:30 PM CST

(Newser) – Saying Cuba’s finances “don’t square up,” President Raul Castro called for belt-tightening measures in the wake of three hurricanes and a global recession that have hobbled the communist nation. The state plans to dole out fewer worker subsidies, halve the number of overseas trips, and halt costly programs that reward workers with free vacations. Cuba’s GDP experienced a slower-than-expected growth rate of 4.3% this year.

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Cuba's President Raul Castro delivers a speech during the closing ceremony of the National Assembly in Havana, Saturday, Dec. 27, 2008. (AP Photo/Prensa Latina, Ismael Francisco)

Cuban President Raul Castro Castro lamented the economic effects of hurricanes Gustav, Ike and Paloma, which caused $10 billion in damages. (AP Photo/Alexandre Meneghini)

As Cuba prepares to mark the 50th anniversary of the Castro revolution, Raul Castro paid tribute to him as the person "who has led us yesterday, today and always to victory and victory." (AP Photo/Javier Galeano)

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The accounts don't square up. You have to act with realism and adjust the dreams to the true possibilities. Two plus two always equals four, never five. - President Raul Castro, Cuba

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Castro Calls for More Work, Less Welfare