David Rath granted large bonuses before leaving Health Ministry

The former Social Democratic Health Minister David Rath reportedly granted his closest co-workers bonuses of up to half a million crowns (nearly $23 000 US) before leaving his post. Mr. Rath distributed nearly 11 million crowns (over $501 000 US) in bonuses during the first half of 2006 to 27 of his closest associates. Saturday's edition of the daily Mlada Fronta Dnes writes that although Mr. Rath says the figure is reasonable, the Ministry of Health may have to increase its annual budget in order to pay-out the bonuses.