Established October 1895

Friday May 7, 2021 $2 VAT Inclusive

Health Minister: No problems UNDER CONTROL at two schools By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste available on Saturday for any member of staff of the Princess Margaret School, THE unfolding situation at the who, because they may feel uneasy,want Princess Margaret Secondary to be tested. And we’re doing that out of School and the St. George Primary an abundance of caution as we normally School is currently under control do,” he said. and there is no need for panic. “So the major point here is that we do This assurance came from Minister of not have an outbreak at the Princess Health and Wellness, Lieutenant Colonel Margaret Secondary School, at least at Jeffrey Bostic, during a press conference this point in time. We will follow the yesterday. science and do the necessary testing.” The Minister stressed that there was Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth no problem at the two schools, even George, explained that the cases at the though they had small concerns. schools have been linked to extended “The fact is that this is really a family family clusters and noted that the cluster that we’re dealing with, which student at the St. George Primary School has spread its wings into these two tested negative in the first test and they schools and we are confident that we were waiting to perform a second test will be able to deal effectively with the on May 8, 2021. situation at these schools,” he said. “If needs be, we will certainly institute He explained that at Princess much more contact tracing. At this point Margaret Secondary School, they had with respect to Princess Margaret School, started the contact tracing of the positive there was a single exposure involving a case and have already tested a number student from the Five Upper One and of individuals and were preparing Five Upper Two. And based on that themselves to do the same at St. George information, we have identified a total of Primary School, if the situation required 58 contacts. Two of those contacts are them to. what we describe as very close contacts. He noted that the Ministry of Health And those persons are in quarantine, and was satisfied with the decision made by they will be tested today,” he said. the Ministry of Education to suspend “The plan is to test all students in the classes at the secondary school and Upper One and the Upper Two classes. resuming online classes, and added that And in addition to that, a list of teachers they would be watching the situation were provided so that we have a complete closely. picture as to where we are at, at the Minister of Health and Wellness, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Bostic. “We have also decided to make testing school.” BRA feeling spin-off effects of pandemic FOR the fiscal period ending March 31, personal income tax, corporate income 2021, the Barbados Revenue Authority Revenue collection declines tax and reverse tax credits. The (BRA) collected just over 2.24 billion cumulative of what we see in the system, dollars, over 208 million less than it did the decline would have averaged about goes back from 1998 to present. As a the previous year. 20 per cent. remedy, we’ve established a Refunds Revenue Commissioner Louisa Lewis- She went on to state that, “VAT Team, which has commenced the process Ward, who has been at the helm of the continues to be the largest contributor of verification of all outstanding balances. Barbados Revenue Authority for the last to the tax revenues and therefore, our Some of these require careful research 11 months, says this is a direct result of policy around this tax will be carefully and examination before they can be paid the COVID-19 pandemic and a rapid monitored in the upcoming period. The and in many instances, we’re required slowing economy. Her comments came policymakers have signalled no intent to offset refunds against monies owed during a virtual media briefing held via to raise taxes in this challenged to the Authority by taxpayers. However, the Zoom online platform yesterday. environment and therefore, we will as we do recognise that there are many “This decline of eight per cent is Barbadians need to work hard and be Barbadians who faced economic primarily attributed to a decline of 192 extremely innovative to ensure recovery. challenges at this point and we are million dollars in VAT, a decline of 117 The rebound of the tourism sector will working to review these balances as a million in income tax and an excise tax be key.” matter of earnest,” Lewis-Ward stated. decline of 81 million. Secondary impact The Revenue Commissioner was felt with declines in property tax, Update given on refunds nonetheless stressed that Government withholding tax, fuel tax and the On the matter of refunds, Lewis-Ward has made significant progress in settling room rate levy of 24 million, 17 million, noted that BRA conducted an analysis of refunds, with total payments made from 15 million and 14 million dollars all tax balances included as refunds in August 2018 to present, standing at just respectively. I guess the levy reflects the the Tax Administration Management over 472 million.This includes corporate Revenue Commissioner, Louisa Lewis- impact that COVID has had on the Information System (TAMIS) of BRA by tax refunds paid of just over 11 million, Ward. tourism sector,” Lewis-Ward remarked. the end of February 2021 and given the personal income tax paid of just over On the brighter side, the Revenue balances outstanding, a Refunds Team 104 million, value added tax refunds paid include their up-to-date banking details Commissioner indicated that corporation has been set up to address the matter. of just over 307 million and reverse tax for any refunds to be processed, to enable taxes performed well, buffering some of “Balances remain outstanding to credits paid of 48 million. Lewis-Ward bank-to-bank transfers from the BRA. the negative impact and without that, taxpayers in all tax types, including VAT, is meanwhile reminding taxpayers to (RSM) 2 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Psychiatric Hospital staff encouraged to co-operate By Cara L. Jean- Baptiste

STAFF at the Psychiatric Hospital are being urged to co-operate with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and get tested. During a press confer- ence yesterday, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George, re- vealed that the Ministry was continuing to investi- gate the situation at the Psychiatric Hospital and highlighted that there had been some reluctance on the part of members of staff to get tested. “I would just like to let the public know that there has been some re- luctance on the part of some members of staff at the Psychiatric Hospital Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George. not to test, and I’m just imploring you that if we The Chief Medical make sure that the issues are to get to the bottom Officer explained that the there remain contained. of the situation in the Ministry would have in- He assured that at this Psychiatric Hospital, vestigated the situation point in time, it appeared then we need the co-op- and so far, they have that the outbreak seems eration of all staff,” he found 30 staff members to be with clients and a said. across the whole plant few staff members and “Let me remind the who believe that they they would continue to public that we continue may have been exposed to actively monitor the sit- to investigate the the coronavirus in some uation. Psychiatric Hospital. As way. Minister of Health and I indicated, there are 50 He noted that they Wellness, Lieutenant individuals.Yesterday af- made a decision yester- Colonel Jeffrey Bostic, ternoon, we indicated to day afternoon to have said that much like the the public of Barbados those 30 individuals situation at the Queen that this was confined to placed in quarantine at Elizabeth Hospital, he a ward. But now there is a hotel. Dr. George ex- was confident they would one single case that has pressed that they would get on top of the situation popped up on another continue to work with the at the Psychiatric ward.” Psychiatric Hospital to Hospital. Dr. Williams: Still wear masks after jab BEING fully vaccinated cently released guidelines administration of will not exempt any indi- stating that those fully vaccines worldwide, vidual from wearing a vaccinated will no longer Barbados commences mask in Barbados. have to wear a mask or new protocols for trav- President of the social distance outdoors, ellers inoculated against Barbados Association of this is not the case on COVID-19, allowing Medical Practitioners,Dr. these shores. these individuals to Lynda Williams, made it “Those are not the quarantine for a shorter clear that both tourists guidelines for Barbados. period than those who and residents who have Fully vaccinated people haven’t. received their full course will be required to wear “The fully vaccinated of COVID-19 vaccina- masks in Barbados, even people will have less re- tions will still be required if they have received both strictions when they to wear their masks while shots of the AstraZeneca. come in. Once they are in public spaces. Let it be clear that nei- confirmed to be fully A full course is defined ther the CDC or any pub- vaccinated, they will be as two shots of the lic health agency has the required to take a rapid AstraZeneca or Moderna answer on this. You go PCR test and once that is vaccinations or one shot and look at another coun- negative, they will be free of the Johnson and try, you will see that they to enjoy their vacation,” Johnson vaccine. have different regulations she said. Speaking during yes- on this. So Barbados will Williams said this de- terday’s episode of the require the wearing of velopment is a good one, COVID Queries series, masks, whether or not but the challenge for the Williams outlined while you have received your island now will be ensur- the US Centres for vaccine,” she added. ing the validity of the Disease Control and Tomorrow, for the first proof of vaccination. Prevention (CDC) re- time since the start of the (JMB) The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 3

Transparency stepping up at port CHAIRMAN of Barbados Port Inc. with it. But that does not necessarily pansion over the period 2020 to 2030; (BPI), Peter Odle, is assuring the mean that people are going to be al- and in a few weeks will complete its public that shipments passing lowed to come back into the Port, be- five-year business plan; as well as is ex- through the Bridgetown Port are cause I think that is possibly part of the pected to conclude all requirements for not in any way compromised. challenge that we are facing.” the ISO 9001 quality management sys- In fact, Odle will be ensuring that al- The Chairman said that the rebrand- tems certification by September this legations of barrel tampering become a ing is symbolic of BPI’s future endeav- year. thing of the past. ours and the increasing elevation of the BPI has also adopted a new environ- Addressing the unveiling ceremony Port of Bridgetown in Barbados’ eco- mental, social, and management sys- of BPI’s new logo yesterday, he said: “I nomic development agenda. tem to guide future infrastructural proj- know there has been a situation de- “The new brand better aligns with our ects, and to minimise negative impacts veloping recently where a number of vision; better complements our business on social and natural eco-systems. Barbadians are complaining that their strategy; and better communicates our “I am sure that you would agree that barrels have been tampered with. strategic intent,” he pointed out. Barbados Port Inc. is on a fast track to Whilst we know and we are clear that “Moving with the times is important; a future which just a short while ago this is not what is happening, I said to people evolve and so do businesses and you could only have imagined. Our ob- my CEO (David Jean-Marie) what we within the last few years, significant jective is to generate sustainable value need to do is to set up a system that is groundwork has been laid out to sup- for our stakeholders through a relent- totally transparent. port our future growth and develop- less focus on satisfying the needs of our “So that anybody that comes to collect ment.” customers, and a proactive but disci- their barrels and other cargo will see Odle highlighted that BPI completed plined approach to invest in the most that there is no way that anybody a new master plan, which serves as the profitable growth opportunities,” he Chairman of Barbados Port Inc., Peter within the Port could have tampered blueprint for Port infrastructural ex- added. Odle. BPI unveils new logo THE Barbados Port Inc. (BPI) marked its 60th anniversary yesterday,introducing its new corporate identity. This new logo, which is inspired by oceanic crossings, by nature and the mar- itime environment, was unveiled during a ceremony at BPI’s Cube Blue head- quarters at Harbour Road. “The key objective of this rebranding was to create a corporate visual identity that differentiates us amongst other ports.We hold steadfastly to our name and wanted to create an image that bet- ter aligns us with our bold new vision of becoming the most innovative, green maritime hub in the world by 2030,” said Chief Executive Officer of BPI, David Jean-Marie, who is of the view that the occasion of BPI’s 60th year was a most fitting time to introduce the company’s new logo and new strategic direction. “Our greatest asset is our reputation. The trust that you have placed in us to deliver on our corporate promises,we Chief Executive Officer of Barbados guard with great care. As part of our re- Port Inc., David Jean-Marie. brand therefore, we restate our commit- ment to our stakeholders in the articula- to 5 to 6 days, and I hope to get it down tion of five core values – sustainability, to 3 days to be able to move goods efficiency, reliability, innovation and through the Port. I am hopeful that we teamwork.” can make change real for the people who Minister of Maritime Affairs and the operate either in the careenage or shal- Blue Economy,Kirk Humphrey,with the low draught; I think we can make change click of a button, officially launched the real for the staff, so they feel much more new logo, and expressed to the gathering, involved in the processes of the Port; and “This is not about making a lot of make change real for the people who op- changes; this essentially is about making erate taxis as well – I just feel it has to change real. So that the few things that be real,” he stressed. we decide to change must make a signif- “Therefore, the rebranding exercise is icant difference. It’s not only necessarily part of the process, but giving people a about a brand or logo – is that it has to sense that something real has occurred is be a real change in the lives of people. also equally important. And the Port of “I am always asking how long it takes Bridgetown has really been in the process Minister of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy, the Hon. Kirk Humphrey to get a container out – at one point we of trying to make this change real in the (left), admiring the Barbados Port Inc.’s new logo on a flag with BPI employee, were averaging 11 days, and then it went lives of people.” Samuel Carrington. COVID-19 update: 14 new cases, 10 discharged FOURTEEN new positive COVID-19 new positives are male clients of the reached 3,929 (1,896 females and 2,033 The number of people vaccinated cases – six males and eight females Psychiatric Hospital. males) and 3,831 people have recov- under the National Vaccination – were recorded on Wednesday, Meanwhile, 10 people recovered from ered. The island has recorded 45 Programme for COVID-19 is 75,296 May 5. the viral illness and were discharged. COVID-19 deaths. (first and second doses). Of these, They were identified from the 733 There are currently 84 persons in iso- A total of 156,736 tests have been 25,466 persons have been fully vacci- tests conducted by the Best-dos Santos lation. carried out by the public health labo- nated during the second phase of the Public Health Laboratory.Four of the Confirmed COVID-19 cases have ratory since February 2020. programme. 4 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Abuse of systems Opposition Leader: LEADER of the whether or not the reason for Opposition, Bishop Joseph this was due to the fact that Stipend ‘a joke’ Atherley, believes that it had become easier to mar- the creation of the Public ginalise the central public Affairs Department is an service employees and pro- THE funds allocated monthly Commenting on Edghill’s abuse of the systems in a fessionals in the existing to parliamentarians to give practice of pulling his own democracy. Government Information aid to their constituents has pockets to help his con- In a recent press release, Service Department by re- been labelled as “a joke” by stituents, Atherley stated the Atherley highlighted that cruiting partisan operatives in Opposition Leader, Bishop system must provide more one way of abusing systems a new agency over whom they Joseph Atherley. help. in a democracy is for the would have direct influence. As he addressed Tuesday’s “To give to constituents, you Government to create paral- He questioned whether if sitting, the MP for St. Michael have to fall back on your own lel organisations. what was sought was a vehicle West insisted Government resources and then we hear “Parallelism allows for con- more conducive to the creation consider a greater allocation mouths across this land trol and perverted influence and colouring of a party mes- of monies to this area. talking about the amount of over entities intended to serve sage, more so than public serv- “Mr. Speaker, you have come money politicians are given. the interests of the party in ice messaging and pertinent to realise by now as this is Foolishness! And because we government over the national information for public inter- your first term, that this par- use it as a tool to divide us one interests,” he said. est awareness and consump- liamentary allocation which from another, this situation “We are now witnessing tion. they give monthly to help you will be perpetuated and con- the creation of one such in The Opposition Leader represent constituents with tinue to remain,” he said, gain- Barbados, the Public Affairs stated that he was of the view their needs is a joke. It is a ing applause from those across Department. that this issue went beyond joke!” he said, noting the funds the floor of the House. “The question must be asked giving a few party faithfuls job were often gone before they He noted that for many as to what is the role of the opportunities, and outlined arrived. parliamentarians, knocks for Government Information that this was perhaps a less In paying tribute to his late assistance came early in the Service. Traditionally and than subtle attempt to further colleague Joseph ‘Joe’ Edghill, morning and “you cannot say substantively, it is the official establish, at taxpayers’ ex- Leader of the Opposition, who represented Christ to people, ‘Go away, I ain’t got agency of Government for the pense, a redundant mecha- Bishop Joseph Atherley. Church West Central for 14 nothing!’”. Therefore, he publication of information nism, a parallel facility in the years until 2008, he said the stressed the system must pro- from Government’s respective interest of “colouring the mes- Affairs Department is the stipend was even more laugh- vide better for the people. ministries to the national com- sage, controlling the message communications parallel to able when considering the “It is insufficient. Genuine munity and for facilitating and convincing the public”. the Government Information current high cost of living, the representatives would pull media relations. Whence Simply put, Atherley be- Service, much like the HOPE COVID lockdowns, the high their pockets and they do, but then arises the need for a lieved that this was a “propa- Project was the construction rate of unemployment and the I am asking Government to Department of Public Affairs?” ganda mechanism”, especially parallel to the National island’s poor economic per- consider raising these funds,” Atherley pondered on given the fact that the Public Housing Corporation. (CLJB) formance for over a decade. he added. (JMB) The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 5

Barbados must not be left behind, says Caddle YESTERDAY, Marsha Caddle, move several of the barriers to regional, Minister in the Ministry of Economic international trade that exist in physical Affairs and Investment, spoke of the brick-and-mortar environments. That need to adapt to growing technolo- topic is interestingly framed because the gies, and the importance of not being digital disruption movement must, by def- left behind as an island, in the grow- inition, be global, or doing nothing for the ing digital revolution. citizens and residents of Barbados, of the Caddle was one of the featured speak- Bahamas, of the Cayman Islands.” ers at the Royal Fidelity (RF) Barbados According to the minister, however, Economic Conference, with the theme the ministry had discovered when they “Global Digital Disruption, Threat or started investigating the international Opportunity”. The minister explained payments environment, that there were that there was always a need to adapt and barriers to a Barbadian company or evolve with the times, but the COVID-19 artists selling in the Amazon marketplace pandemic had accelerated the digital and other platforms. transformation which the Government “So we began to work not just to access had on the cards since 2018. those spaces for the start, [but] creating “One of the first things we did was to indigenous regional spaces. And on that design and establish a US$40 million we are working with local idea labs, we project to digitalise and modernise the are meeting developers who snatch a environment in which people and the problem from our shared environment, Government interact. I say the environ- and build a solution. This is one of those ment, because it is not enough to simply places where it is not for the government transform the way Government does to solve the problem, but simply to open business, but beyond how Government up to the solution,” Caddle contended. relates to itself.We have to modernise the The minister also highlighted that environment in which all sectors of econ- Barbados now had a building ID system omy interact, the public sector, private and with it, the Government could grant sector, including start-ups and sole pro- programmatic access to that data set to Marsha Caddle, Minister in the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Investment. prietorships, household economy, third companies who could use it to become sector and academia, and individuals.” more efficient in what they do. She stated high knowledge economies that produce, if we dare, to equalise the world?” Caddle She went on to outline some of the key that the Government wanted small deliv- not just consume, high-value tech prod- asked. “We want to talk about the vul- areas which the current administration ery businesses and other start-ups to be- ucts. nerability of the climate crisis, yes, believed was necessary for review. come more profitable and then move to “Where are we as countries and as a re- debt crisis, yes, but if we miss the digital Everything from digitising records so hire more Barbadians as drivers and dis- gion in our cybersecurity agenda? And do revolution, we miss the kind of opportu- there could be full use made of big data, patchers, but also as managers and devel- we stand to be left behind in the one area nity for job growth, to which we will not or Barbados Statistical Services tran- opers, so a true free-value, high-wage, of economic activity that has the capacity, catch up.” (AS) sitioning to the Statistics and Data tech-based economy can take hold. Caddle Analytics Authority, to migrating key reiterated that the ritual revolution was government services online. not just about companies, it was funda- “The issuance of a Certificate of mentally about people. GOVERNMENT NOTICE Character has moved from weeks to 24 The new digital ID of Barbados is one hours through an online application of the most transformational of all, said process. Immigration Services, the re- Caddle, as it re-registers the population MINISTRY OF INNOVATION, SCIENCE newal of driver’s licenses, the payment with a single digital identity that removes AND SMART TECHNOLOGY of land tax and the issuance of liquor li- much of the time and frustrations pre- censes which are so key in a hospitality- senting oneself several times to several based economy, these have all been digi- government agencies in business envi- BA-L1046 PUBLIC SECTOR MODERNISATION PROGRAMME talised and other key services are coming ronments in order to get things done. It on board; that work also includes a also has tremendous potential applica- SELECTION OF AN E-SERVICES PLATFORM DEVELOPER public investment dashboard,” said the tions, for example, in simplifying state- minister. regulated transactions between individ- The Government of Barbados and has signed a Loan Contract with the Inter-American These changes would allow the uals. Government and the public to be able to Development Bank (IDB) to fund the Public Sector Modernisation Programme track delivery on major projects that are Digital disruption (PSMP). The main objectives of this operation are to improve the effectiveness of the critical for development. It also includes Regarding the threats of the disruptive Government and enhance the competitiveness of its economy. This will be achieved training for key public officers in the ap- digital economy, the minister noted that plication of disruptive technologies. She there was still a major concern relating to through: (i) increasing the adoption of the digital channel to access public services by said that the effect of the pandemic had concessional financing. individuals and businesses; and (ii) enhancing the efficiency in the public service and immediately enhanced the delivery econ- “We have been talking and are still talk- strengthening the skills in the public sector for a digital economy. omy for goods and services, because it ing about the notion of vulnerability as had to reach people where they were and a part of the framework for determining payments needed to be made and received not just access to concessional finance, The Ministry of Innovation, Science and Smart Technology is seeking to contract an in remote locations in Barbados. but the lines along which the rules of in- ternational finance and norms of public E-Services Platform Developer (an individual consultant) to develop, implement, Establishment of national payment finance are drawn. Much of this has to maintain and support the X-Road Services and the Business Process Manger Tool system do with the climate crisis which impacts (GxP E-Services Engine) of the E-Services Platform. The Policies for the Selection Other opportunities grabbed by Barbados us disproportionately, which we do not was the establishment of a national contribute,” said Caddle. and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank will payment system, where legislation was However, she referenced that while in be used for this procurement activity. passed last year with the expectation Santiago, Chile as part of a team, there that the success of said legislation, and were discussions about a multidimen- the ecosystem would be the creation of a sional measure for vulnerability. Interested persons should request the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the consultancy reduction in the costs of payments for “And one of the things we put on the from the Project Manager, Public Sector Modernisation Programme via email at Barbadians. table then was a country’s capacity to [email protected]. You will be required to submit a Curriculum Vitae which “This Act allows new players to intro- learn, develop, and to adapt to new tech- duce new technologies that will lower nologies. I feel now that we were quite clearly demonstrates that you are capable of undertaking the assignment. costs, and make all kinds of payments, in- clever back then, because of course this is Submissions will be evaluated based on criteria included in the TOR. cluding these for government licenses, what concerns us now,” said Caddle. but also those among individuals and She listed some questions which must companies easier and faster. Well the be considered regarding digital disrup- The Curriculum Vitae should be submitted to the Project Manager, Public Sector work we are doing is not just about do- tion, adding that a more formal and non- Modernisation Programme to the above email address on or before May 14, 2021. mestic markets, otherwise what is the formal education and enabling environ- point of digital if it does not serve to re- ment would prepare the country to have 6 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

CSF hoping to expand coding workshop By Cara L. Jean- Warde, expressed that it to begin our regional you will additionally able to get through that 12 p.m. and Wednesdays Baptiste was their hope for the computer coding work- have another tool work- should be able to start from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. workshop to have a re- shops for Barbados and shop, which will be working at companies He noted that while THE Caribbean gional reach. extend it primarily to Python-based. Python that have a global im- they were still working Science Foundation Warde explained that OECS countries,” he is a more sophisticated pact. out the kinks on what (CSF) is hoping to due to COVID-19, the said. computer programming He revealed that they planned to offer to expand their CSF CSF would be unable to “We have Level One, language. It will allow this new programme, the students, whether it Computer Coding offer the Junior Robotics which is what you’re the students who have which will be called the would be robotics that Workshop to other Camp this summer and going to hear about enough mathematical Caribbean Computer would use python coding countries in the this was why they today.You’ll see what the background to work Coding Workshop, is to control machines and Caribbean soon. decided to pursue ex- students did at Level with big data and process slated to begin the sec- robots or they would Speaking during the panding the Computer One, which is mostly big data and learn ma- ond week of July and run work on teams that chose Workshop’s Final Coding Workshop. CSS, JavaScript, of chine learning algo- until the third week of to work on big data, the Projects Showcase “Because of COVID-19, course, HTML; this is rithms to solve complex August, twice a week, on CSF plans to launch the recently, Executive it is not safe for us to website development problems.” Saturdays from 9 a.m. to programme this summer. Director of CSF, hold a robotics camp this tools. Warde noted that those Professor Cardinal summer, so we are going “But in the summer, participants who were Motorists urged to be mindful PHASE 3 from Back changes, people will Page eventually adjust to the new system. She also en- The temporary traffic couraged people to visit changes are stated the City to conduct their below: business. But she is urg- Motorists entering ing motorists to be mind- The City from Belmont ful and those who travel Road, Halls Road or from Belmont Road and Martindale’s Road via Collymore Rock and Constitution Road will normally use the now be required to turn Constitution Road left onto John Beckles bridge to find an alter- Drive, turn right onto nate route to reach River Road, and proceed the Mighty Grynner into The City. Highway or Fontabelle Public Service Vehicles Road. She explained that (PSVs) en route to the this will allow those Constitution River who need to reach Terminal will travel Bridgetown to get there. along Halls Road, “...The hospital is Roebuck Street and onto nearby and doctors have Crumpton Street to to get to work, nurses enter the terminal. have to get to work on PSVs exiting the time and certainly if Constitution River those who don’t have any Terminal will now turn reason to be down there left onto Constitution ... use their conscience Road from Nursery and understand that we Drive and travel onto St. (have) emergency serv- Michael’s Row, turn left ices in that area,” said onto Bridge Street and Haigh. turn left onto Fairchild Street. Updates on other BTI Southbound PSVs will projects continue right onto Haigh gave some up- River Road and all oth- dates on other projects, ers will travel left along including the Salt Pond John Beckles Drive. Phase II project in St. Motorists will be Peter which is seeking to permitted to commute mitigate flooding in the from the junction at area. This project is on- Crumpton Street to going and it is not expe- Nursery Drive and full riencing any challenges. access will be permitted Haigh said it is expected to St. Michael’s Row, to end in March 2022. Church Street and Spry She indicated that Street via Crumpton Round The Town Road Street. has been closed and no- Pedestrian access will tices were disseminated be permitted along the to residents and mo- bridge however, there torists in the area before must be strict adherence the closure. to the signage and the As it relates to the directions of the site Golden Square Freedom personnel. Park project, the CEO stated that preparation Road users will adjust work is ongoing and Haigh reported that construction will begin with the new traffic shortly. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 7

Chinese researchers find new mechanism China: May Day for ultrahigh-speed memory devices BEIJING – Chinese ratio and low operational memory devices read and write domestic trips up researchers have discovered a speed. data within the range of 100 new mechanism to develop non- A research team from the microseconds, or 100,000 volatile memory devices with Institute of Physics developed nanoseconds. 119.7% over 2020 ultrahigh speed, Institute of non-volatile floating-gate Van der Waals Physics, Chinese Academy of memory devices with ultrahigh heterostructures are made by THE just-ended May Day that about 230 million domestic Sciences, said on Tuesday. speed, based on van der Waals stacking different layered holiday has embraced a trips were made over the five- The development of high- heterostructures with materials, and can be employed robust and ever stronger day holiday – from May 1 to 5, performance memory devices atomically sharp interfaces in research fields ranging from recovery in the tourism marking a year-on-year rise of has played a key role in modern between different functional materials science to market, boosting confidence 119.7 percent. The domestic electronic innovation. Non- elements, with extinction ratio electrochemistry. for the future development tourism market has so far volatile memory devices, up to 10 billion. The research, funded by of the sector, which once recovered 103.2 percent including read-only memory Such memory devices can National Natural Science weathered hard shocks compared to pre-pandemic (ROM) and flash memory,have achieve reading and writing Foundation of China, Ministry amid the novel coronavirus levels. high capacity and mechanical operations within the range of of Science and Technology, and epidemic. Tourism-related revenue reliability. But their 20 nanoseconds, and keep data CAS, was published online in The latest figures by the made over the break reached performance has been for at least ten years. The the journal Nature Ministry of Culture and over 113 billion yuan (US$17 hampered by low extinction current commercial flash Nanotechnology on Monday. Tourism on Wednesday show billion), up 138.1 percent year- on-year, reaching 77 percent of the level before the pandemic. Travel agencies also registered a good performance over the five-day break. Figures from Trip.com Group, an online travel service provider, show that orders on its platform for the holiday rose by 270 percent, even growing by 30 percent over the same period in 2019, before the novel coronavirus pandemic broke out. It said that though the ministry required tourism attractions nationwide to strictly control the visitor flow over the break by ordering travelers to make reservations before trips, people still showed great passion for sightseeing. Trip.com said that at its platform, single-day orders for attraction tickets during the break even rose fivefold over the same day in 2019. Travel methods have also changed, according to travel agencies. Trip.com Group said that thanks to the toll-free policy on highways nationwide, trips by passenger car surged, along with the market for rental cars. It said that growth of orders for car rentals for the holiday marked the highest rise of 330 percent on a single day compared with same period of 2019. Sales of air tickets and high- rated hotels also saw an upswing over the break. According to Qunar, another online travel agency, its Chinese electric vehicle startup Nio Inc exhibits its first concept model, Nio eve, at the 2019 Haikou International New platform saw reservations for Energy Vehicle Show. holiday air tickets rise by 30 percent and those for hotels by 40 percent over 2019. Nio to deliver cars in Norway in September It said that travelers also spent more money over the Nio will start delivering vehicles William Li, Nio founder and overtake gasoline ones, said worked out a definitive plan. holiday whose average in Norway in September as the CEO, said the first model will Marius Hayler, general Nio is the most popular expenses – about 1,713 yuan – first step of its globalization be its flagship ES8 SUV,and the manager of Nio Norway. Chinese electric car startup.It reached a record high compared campaign, said the Chinese second will be the ET7 sedan, In 2020, electric car sales in sold 20,060 vehicles in the first with same holiday in previous electric startup yesterday. which will be available in 2022. Norway totaled 76,789 units, quarter this year, soaring 422.7 years. It will start to take orders The vehicles will be made at accounting for over 54 percent of percent from the same period Lan Xiang, Qunar’s director when an app is launched in July Nio’s plant in Hefei, Anhui total vehicle sales in the country. last year and growing 15.6 of big data, said that though for local customers. The first province. The 100,000th Nio Li said Nio vehicles will be percent from the fourth quarter industry insiders had already showroom in the Nordic country vehicle rolled off the assembly available in five European 2020. given an optimistic forecast for is scheduled to open in line in the plant late last month. countries by 2022. He said the The carmaker expected its the tourism market over the downtown Oslo, its capital city, Electric cars are popular in company has been discussing deliveries to grow by 5 to 10 May Day holiday, the robust in September. It will open Norway, which was the first possibilities of entering the percent to 21,000 to 22,000 units recovery has further cheered another four in 2022. country to see such vehicles to United States, but it has not in the second quarter. them up. 8 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate ‘For the cause that lacks assistance, ’Gainst the wrongs that need resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that I can do’ Editorial Fishing tensions flare between France, Encourage positive UK over Brexit rules LONDON – British Royal HMS Tamar,to also patrol John Dearing said the story dominated UK front Navy vessels and French the waters around the is- scene off St. Helier was pages on Thursday as vot- parenting skills police boats patrolled land, a self-governing “like an invasion”. ers went to the polls in Thursday near the British Crown “It was quite a sight,” he local and regional elections THIS Sunday we celebrate mothers. Families will English Channel island of Dependency near the coast told British news agency in England, Scotland and likely treat matriachs to outings, gifts and special ac- Jersey,where French fish- of northern France. PA. “I looked from the Wales. tivities designed to show just how much they are ap- ermen angry about losing French fishermen shore this morning and it French and British fish- preciated. It is understood that this sentiment is access to its waters gath- steamed into Jersey wa- was just like a sea of red ermen have often clashed. shared throughout the year and that Mother’s Day ered for a maritime ters to protest new post- lights and flares already The latest dispute, the first is simply a day earmarked worldwide as the ideal protest. Brexit rules requiring going off at sea.” since Britain’s departure time to express these feelings. However, what would The irate mariners set them to submit their past French authorities said from the European Union be more ideal is if mothers were not just feted, but off flares and entered the fishing activities in order the patrol vessels were last year,came after Jersey also received the support necessary for them to be island’s main harbor in the to receive a license to con- there to assist in any mar- implemented new require- more effective caregivers, always. first major dispute be- tinue operating in the is- itime emergencies. “We ments that make fisher- In recent years there have been a few parenting tween France and Britain land’s waters. French fish- would thus be capable of men account for their past programmes put on by organisations such as the over fishing rights in the ing communities claim intervening rapidly should work in Jersey waters to United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), the Child wake of the UK’s Brexit di- some boats that have oper- the situation worsen, be eligible for a license to Care Board, the Kiwanis Club, the Anglican Church, vorce from the European ated around Jersey for which is not the case at the continue operating. and the Mother’s Union. These types of endeavours Union. years have suddenly had moment,” they said in a “It clearly is an attempt are to be commended as they are crucial to setting EU officials appealed for their access restricted. statement to The at pitting fishermen up the type of familial foundation needed for children calm, but also accused the Dimitri Rogoff, who Associated Press. against each other – I’m to thrive and develop into positive, contributing cit- UK of not respecting the heads a group of fisher- The French flotilla later entitled to this, you don’t izens. With such a wealth of opportunity out there, terms of the post-Brexit men, said about 50 boats dispersed peacefully after have rights to that,” said parents in general and young mothers in particular trade deal. from French ports along wrapping up its protest, Hugo Lehuby, a represen- should be better equipped to raise well-adjusted The French naval polic- the western Normandy French authorities said. tative for French fisher- young adults who contribute meaningfully to this so- ing boats Athos, which has coast joined the protest The British government men in Normandy. “It re- ciety. Unfortunately, this is not the case, as not a large machine gun on its Thursday morning, gath- said that,“given the situa- ally is a provocation from enough people take advantage of these opportunities. front deck, and the un- ering off the Jersey port of tion is resolved for now,” Jersey.” For instance, the ‘Improving the Life Opportunities armed Themis were sent St. Helier. He said the the Royal Navy vessels Authorities on Jersey, for Young Mothers in Barbados and Grenada’ proj- to keep watch on waters protest over licenses was would return to port in the the largest of the Channel ect, which took place a few years ago, saw a little more between France and not an attempt to blockade UK Islands, said some French than half the intended target of individuals reached Jersey, French maritime the port. Opponents accused boats had not provided the in Barbados and a slightly larger percentage in authorities said. The de- “This isn’t an act of war,” British Prime Minister right paperwork and ac- Grenada. In addition, during a series of parenting ployment came after Rogoff said in a phone in- Boris Johnson of escalat- cused France of acting dis- workshops put on by UNICEF Barbados a while Britain on Wednesday di- terview. “It’s an act of ing the crisis and of using proportionately after Paris back, participation was not nearly as high as was de- rected two naval vessels, protest.” the fishing spat as an threatened to cut off elec- sired.And with the threat of COVID-19 spreading in the HMS Severn and the Yet Jersey fisherman Election Day stunt. The tricity to the island. this current pandemic, and the subsequent economic crisis being faced by families and businesses across the board, it is highly unlikely that mothers would have been taking advantage of any parenting pro- Int’l Court sentences Ugandan to 25 years grammes, or that these programmes would have even been hosted with the lockdowns endured. It seems then that there needs to be some effort at for war crimes creating a general education campaign aimed at pro- moting positive parenting skills using the existing THE HAGUE, against his own tortured a case they had asked the that on Thursday, saying public media, like the Caribbean Broadcasting Netherlands – The past when deciding on a court to investigate. Ongwen could have fled Corporation’s TV 8, the Government Information International Criminal sentence. “As the government of the LRA, was not always in Services’ public service media, and popular local on- Court sentenced a “The chamber is con- Uganda, we are happy that a position of total subordi- line social media sites.There might also be incentive Ugandan former child sol- fronted in the present case the case we referred to the nation to its leader Joseph packages to attract pregnant women to enroll in any dier who turned into a bru- with a unique situation. It ICC had merit,” said Kony and committed some ongoing parenting programme, taking into consider- tal rebel commander to 25 is confronted with a perpe- spokesman Ofwono of the crimes in private. ation that pregnancies can be challenging physically years’ imprisonment trator who willfully Opondo. “We are satisfied, Ongwen abducted chil- and mentally to women and an online programme Thursday,with judges say- brought tremendous suf- and we hope it will serve as dren and women and “dis- might be preferable – online programmes would also ing that his own abduction fering upon his victims,” a signal to others who tributed” them among his accommodate social distancing restrictions. as a schoolboy and history Schmitt said. think they can commit a fighters, the judge said. In the final analysis, we are all aware that a mother as a child soldier prevented “However, it is also con- crime and run away. The “He also kept women means more than providing the physical means by him being sentenced to life. fronted with a perpetrator law will always catch up and girls for his own which a baby is brought into this world. Being a Dominic Ongwen was who himself had previ- with you.” household, forcing the mother moves from the biological role to one of a nur- convicted in February of a ously endured extreme Ongwen’s defense youngest to be his domes- turer and guardian, involving a range of duties from total of 61 war crimes and suffering himself at the lawyers have always cast tic servants, while those providing materially to emotionally. For mothers, crimes against humanity hands of the group of him as a victim of the that were deemed old parenting can be overwhelming. Some may not wish including murder, rape, which he later became a LRA’s brutality who was enough were forced to be to draw from their own experiences in childhood – forced marriage, forced prominent member and traumatized after being his so-called wives, obliged some of which may be incorrect – and the few words pregnancy and using child leader.” abducted as a 9-year-old to have sex with him, and of advice from friends or family may not always be soldiers as a commander Ongwen, wearing a face and turned into a child sol- bear his children,” Schmitt applicable, especially in this ever changing society. in the shadowy Lord’s mask and headphones, dier in the group’s violent added. With such a major duty – to be responsible for a per- Resistance Army. His showed no emotion as he insurgency. Ongwen is the first com- son’s moral and physical well-being and raise an up- lawyers have said they will heard that the three-judge But judges in February mander of the LRA to face standing citizen – placed squarely on one’s shoulder, appeal the conviction. panel had given him a sen- ruled that he committed justice at the global court every opportunity for assistance should be used. Presiding Judge tence five years longer the crimes “as a fully re- and his convictions for gen- Women who take on the responsibility of being moth- Bertram Schmitt said that than the 20 years prosecu- sponsible adult, as a com- der-based crimes are sig- ers would undoubtedly be interested in seeking the judges had to weigh tors requested. mander of the LRA in his nificant for prosecutors best outcomes for themselves and their offspring Ongwen’s brutality and Ugandan authorities mid- to late 20s.” keen to punish such atroc- when it comes to child rearing. So in this current cli- victims’ wishes for justice welcomed the sentence, in Schmitt underscored ities. mate, there is a need to tailor any parenting pro- gramme to facilitate online or distance learning, and Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes to facilitate ease of studying for those who are preg- E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen nant. Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: [email protected] Get our priorities right Start a Hawsepipe Movement THE last Central Bank report your party, but it cannot put clearly spelt out the parlous Barbadians back to work. Nor A hawsepipe is the steel or resists and often wins. from: Chapman lane, state of the Barbados economy. can it benefit the severed LIAT iron pipe that holds the ship’s It is from that mixed “cul- Emmerton, Nelson Street, and In the circumstances, one staff who served the regional anchor. tural deck of cards”: black and rural villages(among others) would expect government to airline faithfully, only to be let white, rich and poor, browned- who withstood and navigated exercise caution in how it uses down by the shareholder gov- NO matter how honorable and skinned and mulatto, village varied hurricanes and storms the country’s scarce financial ernments. Barbados has al- extreme the goal or desire, and terrace, and neighbor and of their lives. Barbadians, who resources. We already have a ways had a reputation of de- climbing through a hawsepipe stranger, that Barbadians can, as an expression of delight bloated cabinet and an excess fending the interests of its cit- is risky and complex. Yet, many pulled and played their “hands and pride, wear this badge of of consultants/advisors, but as izens. Why are we now concen- yesteryear people successfully of life.” honor: “ I came through the if that is not enough, we now trating on image building, but adopted this practice, and Still, Barbadians defeated hawse pipe. learn that government has es- ignoring the legitimate expec- others still continue to stow poverty and successfully climb However, it is not for the tablished a Department of tations of the former LIAT em- away. through many social and Bajan hawsepipers to roll out Public Affairs, supposedly to ployees? Justice demands that Although Hawsepipes are economic hawseholes. Maybe, the red carpet and walk upon it provide direct engagement efforts be made to ensure that physical structures by defini- as with the truth, these facts with a bigoted chest. That with the public. What, then, is these workers are compen- tion, overcoming certain social need to be repeated every day: lessens and lowers achieve- the function of the Government sated. and economic conditions gives many Barbadians went to ment. That sense of effort Information Service and I dare- Monday, May 3rd was Press rise to the same type of chal- school barefooted and walked should be ingrained indelibly say, CBC? Why a public rela- Freedom Day.The pressing (no lenge. These situations include on hot tar as if it were cold into society as the heart and tions arm to be paid for by tax- pun intended) need at this time conflicts like different cultural soup; ate stale bread with the soul of the nation. The British payers? I would think that is for a Freedom of Information values and beliefs and circum- same pleasure as a fresh salt Navy saw the value in recog- Barbadians want accurate in- Act, not the strengthening of stance that poor people face. bread; recycled the leaves of nizing sailors who started as formation rather than en- propaganda machinery. The Often, these hawsepipes are bi- Typhoo tea with afternoon deckhands and became Officers hancement of party image. Media Association of Barbados ased and preferential policies, pleasure, and some didn’t open and Captains. The Navy Madam Prime Minister, must speak candidly against outdated laws and rules among their windows because the branded them. They called COVID has led to a significant any attempts by government others. Promises of justice – as structures may have exposed them Hawsepipers. It is time increase in poverty among the to side-line the fourth estate. laws but no mercy. Situations them to the elements. It is also that Barbados to do justice to population, and government’s The organisation must not rest without choice. fair to say that Barbados is yet Barbadian Hawsepipers. priority should be to take steps until media houses and the Barbados is a marriage of to acknowledge and celebrate a Giving honest effort National to promote growth in the econ- public are given free and easy African and European cultures. son of a maid and sugar fac- honors though significant omy, so that the large number access to information. Further, A set of rules, values, and be- tory worker, who, the record would be one off and haphaz- of unemployed can find em- the media must agitate for jus- liefs sustain and protect this shows, became the head of his ard. Barbadians, by design, ployment. Setting up a Public tice on behalf of disadvantaged relationship. Change repeat- class. start and embrace The Affairs Department will pro- citizens such as the former edly beckons the development So, without question, Barbados Hawsepipers vide jobs for three party faith- LIAT staff. of potential, integration, and Barbados can boast of legions Movement. fuls and may build the image of JOHN GODDARD the common good, but the norm of the hawsepipers.Persons WALTER EDEY Beating home-drums and Charity are synonymous “Home drums beat first” – ured economy should be using tration has a duty and responsi- Highway that opened up signif- ergy. Bajan Saying. all available resources in order bility to create an environment icant commercial activity be- Then, it makes good economic to rise from the still smouldering in which locals firstly can be tween the southern, central and sense for our national planners THIS present administration is ashes. gainfully employed in activity western parts of the island. to have as many Barbadians as signing, stamping and sealing a Barbados has millions of dol- that will be unlike any other The current leadership of possible multi-tasking with policy that will be very difficult lars to repay to the commercial activity in the his- Barbados now has an opportune their hands on the plough while to reverse, by stating that a min- International Monetary Fund tory of the economic life of the though enviable moment to lifting themselves by their own imum of 30 per cent of invest- and should be on a journey seek- country. seize by incentivizing and facil- bootstraps. ment in renewable energy is set ing every possible means to The leadership of every na- itating investment-thirsty While beating home-drums aside for locals. repay rather than having to en- tion-state is always presented Barbadians to be producers of must also be part of the multi- In fact, the statement should tertain foreign interests that are with opportunities to leave a renewable energy. tasking, we should not fail to re- read “No less than 70 per cent of likely to exports profits out of legacy for succeeding genera- At this particular cross-road call the question English poly- investment in renewable energy the country and away from the tions. on our journey,there is no better math Thomas Browne asked is set aside for locals”. clutches of the Treasury. We had examples of (Sir) legacy that can be placed in the and his own response: The original statement about There are thousands of unem- Grantley Adams leaving the hands of this present generation “But how shall we expect “a minimum of 30 percent” im- ployed Barbadians who are un- legacy of Universal Adult of Barbadians and likely to be charity towards others, when we plies that a maximum 70 per- certain when will they ever be Suffrage, Errol Barrow securing passed on to future generations. are uncharitable to ourselves? cent of investment in renewable employed again and should be independence and presenting Though long queues may Charity begins at home, is the energy is set aside for foreign allowed the opportunity of self- subsidized education to every exist, there will be no hasty voice of the world; yet is every interests. employment in the renewable pupil at the secondary level and “buy-ins” and “buy-outs", simply man his greatest enemy,and, as Any country in the throes of a energy business. Tom Adams birthing the idea for because of the sustainability of it were his own executioner”. damaged, defaced and disfig- This and any future adminis- the construction of the ABC the business of renewable en- MICHAEL RAY

LET GOD WORDS OF SPEAK TO US QUOTES FOR TODAY WISDOM Brooks Atkinson (1894 - 1984) Henry Kissinger (1923 - ) “Have mercy upon me, O American theatre critic Diplomat & scholar God, according to thy loving The absence of alternatives kindness: according unto the “The perfect bureaucrat every- “The marvel of all history is where is the man who manages to the patience with which men clears the mind multitude of thy tender mer- marvelously. cies blot out my transgres- make no decisions and escape all and women submit to bur- sions.” responsibility.” dens unnecessarily laid upon – Psalm 51, vs 1 them by their governments.” 10 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Rethinking food security BARBADOS’ food said the Brokopondo Agricultural Revolution, from the farm right to the security should focus Programme of Action, which is framed by digi- fork and so all of these on self-reliance as an agreement between tal technology; every as- things are making the opposed to self-suffi- Barbados and Suriname, pect of the agricultural agricultural sector more ciency. would be a classic way in chain we can now mecha- robust in terms of being So says Chief which local farmers could nise from planting to har- able to respond to climate Agricultural Officer, utilise the larger land vest. We now are using change, but also being Keeley Holder, who noted mass in Suriname to pro- remote sensing technol- able to respond to the that one quarter of the vide food for this country. ogy and GPS technology needs of the consumer.” land in Barbados is now She went on to say that to map farms, to deter- The agricultural expert listed as arable, which the third stage would be mine soil fertility [and] to made the comments as she explained means that to look at diversifying identify pests and disease she said this is the “new there is a small amount the sources from which issues,” she stated. world of agriculture” as of land area to produce we must import food She added, “Now what efforts are made to pro- food to meet all the needs items to supplement our does this technology do? duce high levels of food of the people of this coun- supply. Holder said this It allows us to be more and high quality food at try. would ensure that if precise, it allows us to reduced prices, with more “Not all of the agricul- there is a deficit in an optimise our production, efficiency, more consis- tural products that are item, there are other it allows us to be more tency and more reliabil- consumed by Barbadians sources through which it responsive to things like ity. we can actually grow can be obtained, to min- climate change, climate “This is where we need here. So we have to focus imise disruption of the adaptation and mitiga- to take the sector. We are and we need a three- food supply. tion strategies. So these not there right now, but I stage focus for this. We Meanwhile, turning are the things that we think with the right set of want to approach food her attention to the use of need now to move for- policies and the right set security, first of all, from technology in agriculture, ward, because that’s of applications, we can self-reliance, growing the Chief Agricultural where the future is going start to move the sector more of the things that Officer said while there to be, where you’re using rapidly to that place,” the we can grow here, given are pockets of farmers more robotics, you’re chief agricultural officer the limited land space who are embracing tech- using more mechanised stated. and given our tropical en- nology, the industry as a equipment, you’re using She was speaking dur- vironment. We also then whole is not. Holder is big data analytics [and] ing the Public Affairs want to be able to develop adamant that this needs we’re using all aspects of Department’s pro- our farmers and our to change, as she noted remote sensing... There is gramme “One on One’’, agribusiness entrepre- that such technologies blockchain as well where which was broadcast re- neurs, to the stage where are now cheaper in price we can map everything cently. (JRT) Chief Agricultural Officer, Keeley Holder. they can have their own and more accessible, firms and go overseas making it easier for local and grow food overseas farmers to adopt and for export back to utilise. ‘Pandemic of Performance’ inspires thousands Barbados,” she stated. “We are now in what A REGIONAL initiative, senting at the webinars With that in mind, she is called the Fourth aimed at providing Free series continues include Dr. Tal Ben support to individuals Shahar, best-selling and small businesses Ross Advertising/ will continue to author of Harvard BANK RATES most affected by the ReThink, in collabora- host “Pandemic of University, who is also COVID-19 pandemic, tion with the University Performance” – a freely a professor and expert Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of has already benefited for Peace established by accessible series of on positivity and hap- business yesterday by the Central Bank of Barbados. thousands of persons. the General Assembly entrepreneurial, brand- piness; and UNESCO’s Guardian Group and of the United Nations, ing, and inspirational Ambassador of Art Valid for May 7, 2021 webinars until May 12, and certified Harvard Notes: 2021. University Coach, Dr. Currency Buying Selling “Guardian Group is ex- Guila Kessous. Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 tremely pleased to be as- Other highly sought- Canadian Dollar 1.61963 1.66754 sociated with this series after presenters of the East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 of seminars, which con- webinar series include Euro 2.36168 2.46112 tinues to inspire, provide Rich Braden, lecturer Pound Sterling 2.72023 2.83477 much-needed comfort, at Stanford Graduate United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 guidance and expert ad- School of Business; Demand/Sight: vice in navigating the Mohit Mukherjee, Currency Buying Selling uncertainty that the founder of the University Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.62885 1.66607 COVID-19 pandemic for Peace’s Centre for East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 has brought on. More Executive Education, es- Euro 2.39633 2.44585 than ever, our Caribbean tablished by the General Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 nationals need this Assembly of the United Pound Sterling 2.76014 2.81718 guidance and support Nations; and Ernie United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 as we all bind our hearts Ross, Innovator of Telegraphic Transfer together to remain Intangience™ branding Currency Buying Selling resilient during these methodology, certified Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 unprecedented times,” and validated by the Canadian Dollar 1.63194 1.66607 said Ayesha Boucaud- University for Peace, East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.40084 2.44585 Claxton, Head, Group Centre for Executive Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 Branding and Education. Pound Sterling 2.76533 2.81718 Communications of The Pandemic of United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 Guardian Group. Performance initiative is The sessions also ex- being gifted to the region INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL amine unique ways in and can be accessed CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE which individuals can through an online regis- RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS explore how to turn ad- tration that will allow N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. versity into personal and participants to access BDS$ professional advance- the various courses live Guyana Dollar 0.00943 Jamaica Dollar 0.01311 ment. via https://www.intang- T&T Dollar 0.29702 Some of the world- ience.com/pandemic-of- renowned experts pre- performance courtesy. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 11

Must adopt digital technologies THE COVID-19 pandemic has accel- skills should align with the sectors and erated digital transformation on activities strategic to the long-term view average by seven to 10 years, and of the country’s development in high- an international trade expert is growth sectors.” warning that with these changes The ITC head went further,noting that being long-lasting, companies and undertaking such planning at the re- economies which are unable to gional level can help Caribbean coun- adopt digital technologies on a wide tries achieve the scale necessary to lower scale are at risk of being left behind. costs and ultimately expand access to Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive reliable and affordable energy, trans- Director of the International Trade portation and telecommunications Centre (ITC), made the comments during infrastructure and services to underpin the recently held Barbados Coalition of competitiveness of our economies. She Service Industries’ High-Level Virtual explained that without investment in Roundtable Discussion held under the skills, supply-side capacities will remain theme:“Services for Economic Resilience weak. and Post-Pandemic Recovery”. Meanwhile, Coke-Hamilton went on Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of the International Trade Centre She explained that in order to main- to say that the climate crisis and COVID- (ITC). tain competitiveness in this rapid digital 19 pandemic represent a wake-up call transformation, there needs to be invest- for countries to revisit the way they run stated. the Central Bank’s 2020 Economic ments made in ICT infrastructure and their economies and the way they treat She explained that in practice, this Report has called for increased adoption digital skill development. Moreover, she the planet. She said greater focus must would call for the investments to be made of green and digital technologies as part said there is a need to encourage use of be on employing green and sustainable in research, development and innova- of its approach to build resilience and digital technologies to transform busi- strategies. Noting that sustainability will tion. In this respect, she spoke of using yield positive impact on foreign exchange nesses for increased productivity and be at the core of future economic activi- the Sargassum for alternative fuels and earnings. diversified offerings. ties, she said it is important to plan fertilisers; the use of solar energy,as well “A multi-pronged approach with stake- “In addition, digital trade in itself is a ahead to stay ahead. as the blue economy, as a source of blue holder buy-in from MSMEs, VSOs and fast-growing segment that provides sig- “The use of green technologies and sup- carbon and clean offshore energy. government alike will be critical to im- nificant export opportunities. One just port for green services sectors can yield “These are all skills-based sectors that plement these changes as quickly as pos- has to look at the new market for website triple with scenarios for Barbados. we can invest in and explore for diversi- sible and reduce the impact of future and app development and the revitalised Mainstreaming green practices through- fication,” she maintained. shocks on the economy. Business sup- call centre and logistics sectors, to see the out the economy also increases resilience With that in mind, she contended that port organisations, such as the Barbados opportunities. Education will be critical by reducing dependence on imports such services are key to advancing these Coalition of Service Industries, can play in this regard, to equip MSMEs with the as fuel. For small island states that are strategic areas and contribute to eco- an important role through supporting skills necessary to enter the interna- most vulnerable to climate change, the nomic recovery, increased resilience and the government to develop effective tional marketplace and compete effec- call for a global effort to reduce carbon sustainability. Speaking specifically of policies and interventions and ensuring tively,” she stated. emissions should remain at the centre of Barbados, she said this country is cog- the priorities of MSMEs are reflected,” Coke-Hamilton added,“In this regard, their international engagements,” she nisant of the need to pivot, noting that she added. Insolvency system must become more efficient WITH micro, small and medium enter- Symmonds made the comments as “We can’t just allow them to disap- prises (MSMEs) facing increasing chal- he noted that the Barbados legislation pear one after the other. So therefore, lenges that threaten their sustainabil- leans largely towards receivership the thinking is that we bring creditors ity, efforts are on to ensure that a more rather than restructuring. He explained together and we have a restructuring efficient insolvency system exists in this that while receivership is a powerful plan, which is approved. But at the country. tool for creditors and has been used same time, you can upon commence- Word of this has come from Minister successfully by them to protect their ment of that plan, get access to financ- of Energy, Small Business and interests, the COVID-19 pandemic has ing, which is really the critical lifeline Entrepreneurship, Kerrie Symmonds. highlighted the vulnerabilities that to keep micro enterprises going. In fact, Delivering the feature address at the MSMEs face, often through no fault of any enterprise must have access to fi- recently held launch of the Sagicor their own, and the need to give them nancing,” he stated. Cave Hill School of Business and a lifeline when they face “financially He said the approach that they want Management’s Caribbean Micro, Small perilous” circumstances. to take is of summary administration of and Medium Enterprise Centre, “How then do we intervene in order such matters, which would allow the Minister Symmonds disclosed that reg- to ensure that we strike that balance? matter to be dealt with outside of the ulations are being developed to accom- That we give the small, medium and courtroom. This, he said, would allow for pany legislation on the matter, and the micro enterprises an opportunity to get a more consensual process between ministry is current seeking comment a second lease on life? Therefore, the debtor and creditor and also protects on them from various stakeholders. way in which we are looking at restruc- the company, by putting the creditor “You cannot have a piece of legislation turing the legislation, pardon the pun, in a position where they have a “super that is designed to bring a renewed life is not just being oriented towards the priority charge” over existing assets or a new opportunity to a flagging and protection of creditors, but oriented of the company. That way, Minister failing business, if the regulatory envi- more towards the financial assistance Symmonds said, even when the creditor ronment that should facilitate the steps which would be offered to distressed facilitates the company with getting to be taken and outline the steps to be enterprises,” the minister stated. access to another line of financing, they taken and provide certainty and ease of The Small Business and know that their interests are still pro- access and clarity of purpose, if that Entrepreneurship Minister said when tected. regulatory environment either does not an enterprise is financially distressed, “These are the kinds of things that exist or is patently flawed. So that these the first instinct at the policy level must we’re looking at, these are the kinds of are mistakes that we have to get right now be focused on how to keep that initiatives that we’re trying to bring to at Government level and my Ministry business from failing. He contended bear on the sector, in order to make the now has those regulations drafted and that this is essential, given that the sector ... a little bit more modern, in out for comment with the stakeholders. MSME sector constitutes more than terms of its administration, but equally Equally, it is vitally important for us to two-thirds of the employment in this capable of withstanding some of the Minister of Energy, Small Business and focus on where the failings are with the country and accounts for 95 per cent of shocks that it has had to undergo in Entrepreneurship, Kerrie Symmonds. legislative structure,” he stated. economic activity here as well. recent times,” he stated. 12 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline GODDARD ENTERPRISES LIMITED 232 $2.10 $2.10 $2.10 $0.00 May 6, 2021

One security traded firm as 232 shares traded on the Regular Market, with a total value of $487.20. Goddard Enterprises Limited was Deposit Receipts the sole security trading 232 shares at $2.10. Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $22.56 $22.30 -$0.26

BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Thursday May 6, 2021 INDICES LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE May 6, 2021 May 5, 2021 Local 2,442.66 2,442.94 (0.28) ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.10 $0.30 1 10,498 Cross-list 1,140.86 1,140.86 - BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 70 - Composite 598.34 598.41 (0.07) MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - May 6, 2021 May 5, 2021 Local 4,909.93 4,910.50 (0.57) Barbados Farms Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $0.68 $0.68 - $0.30 $0.40 7,574 6,561 Cross-list 145.67 145.67 - Composite 5,055.60 5,056.17 (0.57) Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 04-May-21 - - - $4.04 $4.04 - $4.00 $4.05 10,072 5,500 MUTUAL FUND FirstCaribbean International Bank 14-Apr-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $1.80 - 12,578 May 6, 2021 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 12-Apr-21 - - - $0.16 $0.16 - - $0.16 - 5,168 CHANGE - Dev Fund 30-Apr-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.2624 0.0041 30-Apr-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2673 0.0003 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 01-Apr-21 - - - $0.56 $0.56 - $0.56 $0.57 5,522 1,000 30-Apr-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6764 -0.0002 -Value Fund 30-Apr-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.8442 6.8442 6.8442 0.0212 30-Apr-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.1051 0.0005 Goddard Enterprises Limited 06-May-21 232 $2.10 $2.10 $2.10 $2.10 $0.00 $2.01 $2.10 200 1,648 30-Apr-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0050 0.0002 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.6411 5.6411 5.5283 0.0393 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 29-Apr-21 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $1.78 $2.00 56,258 13,974 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 1.0516 1.0516 1.0306 0.0147 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUND m 1.6443 1.6443 1.6114 0.0016 One Caribbean Media Limited 30-Mar-21 - - - $2.20 $2.20 - - $2.20 - 1,601 30-Apr-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.84 0.02 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - -- $2.26 $2.26 ---- - 30-Apr-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.76 0.02 30-Apr-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.99 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Mar-21 - - - $31.25 $31.25 - $31.35 - 100 - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $22.56 $22.30 -$0.26 $20.75 - 10 - m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly

TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD 232 Fixed Income Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size * = Security is Trading X-Div GOB Series B 05-May-21 $60.00 $60.00 $55.00 $80.00 250,000 34,828 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 - - - - *+* = Security is Suspended GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 - - - - ** = Rights Issued GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 - $70.00 - 19,617 NOTICES NEWS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS Bank of England expects Emera Incorporated - Directors have fixed March 22nd, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on May 20th, 2021.

DIVIDEND DECLARATIONS best year for UK

Emera Deposit Receipt - Directors have declared a cash dividend of sixty-three point seven five (CDN $0.6375) cents per common share to be paid on May 17th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on May 3rd, 2020. Registered holders of economy since 1941 depositary receipts ("Depositary Receipts") issued pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated LONDON – The Bank of “New COVID cases in the February 2nd, 2016 among Emera, the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. and registered and beneficial holders of depositary receipts from time to time, are entitled to receive, in proportion to the number of Depositary Receipts held by them, respectively, a England has kept interest United Kingdom have con- distribution in the amount of any cash received by the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. (net of any applicable withholding rates on hold as it forecast tinued to fall, the vaccination taxes) in connection with the Dividend (the "Distribution"). the fastest annual pace of programme is proceeding growth for the British econ- apace, and restrictions on BSE NOTICES COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE omy since early on in World economic activity are easing,” War II, largely as a result of Bank Governor Andrew Effective April 19th, 2021, the offices of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central Securities Depository the rapid rollout of coron- Bailey told reporters in a con- Inc. (BCSDI) have reopened. Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. avirus vaccines. ference call. Kindly note that mandatory digital temperature checks and hand sanitizing for all persons entering the building will be enforced. These In a prepared statement After suffering its worst re- checks will be conducted on both staff and clients alike by trained personnel. While we acknowledge that every person with fever may Thursday, the nine-member cession in over 300 years, the not be COVID-19 positive and that some individuals may present without symptoms, please note that any person with a temperature Monetary Policy Committee U.K. economy is projected to reading of 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) or over will be denied entry to conduct business within our offices. said it will maintain the grow by 7.25% in 2021, up We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding, however, we must emphasize that this is a necessary step for the protection bank’s main interest rate at from the bank’s previous of staff and clients alike. 0.1%. The unanimous and forecast of 5%.That would be widely anticipated decision the greatest economic re- TRADING SUSPENSION means that interest rates bound since 1941 when the The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section will remain at the lowest U.K. was on a war footing, ac- 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were level in the bank’s 327-year cording to Bank of England suspended effective December 10th, 2019. history. statistics that date back to The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section Alongside its decision, the 1700. 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited bank’s rate-setting panel said Because it anticipates were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. growth is likely to be greater growth will occur earlier than it previously thought as than expected, it has revised The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor lockdown easing and vac- down its forecasts for next Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. cines free people to spend year. It is now expects 5.75% savings built up during the growth in 2022, instead of the pandemic. 7.25% previously predicted. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 13 La Soufriere: Alert level lowered THE Government of St Scientific Team Lead, Roderick has also decreased significantly. contained boulders up to 5 metres approved essential work only. Vincent and the Grenadines Stewart made the At alert level orange the (15 feet) in diameter. Scientists Conditions remain hazardous has lowered the volcanic recommendation to Cabinet on volcano may resume explosions also observed steaming flows, and the potential for injury also alert level at La Soufriere to May 4, during his update on the with less than 24 hours of notice. which are likely due to contact remains. Orange based on a current activity at the volcano. UWI SRC says lahars with and incorporation of hot The National Emergency recommendation from The Stewart indicated that the (mudflows) continue to pose a volcanic deposits. Management Organisation University of the West Indies recommendation was being made dangerous threat in the river Lahars can cause damage to (NEMO) and The UWI-SRC Seismic Research Centre given that there have been no valleys surrounding the volcano property and serious injury to continue to be the authoritative (UWI-SRC). explosions at the volcano since including Wallibou and Rabacca. persons in their path. Access to sources of information on the UWI-SRC/MVO Volcano- April 22 and the number of It says mudflows /observed the red volcanic hazard zone eruption of La SoufriËre volcano seismologist and current volcanic earthquakes recorded over the past several days have should be limited to government- in St Vincent. J’ca Justice Minister wants expungment of criminal records of more ex-offenders JAMAICA – Minister of Justice, House of Representatives on then Parliament “for us to Delroy Chuck, wants to see the Tuesday. examine it, because yes, we must expungement of the criminal Expungement is guided in be careful; yes, we must make records of more ex-offenders who Jamaica by the Criminal Records sure that when we expunge a have long given up on a life of (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act record that that individual has crime and are now upstanding of 1988. demonstrated that they have citizens. The principle underlying this given up on crime and that they Expungement involves the provision is that a person who will continue to lead a decent life.” formal removal of a conviction has made a sincere and Persons who would like their from an individual’s successful attempt to be law- records to be expunged may make criminal/police record after a abiding should be given the an application through the specific period of time has elapsed opportunity to start afresh Ministry of Justice, to be reviewed and after certain requirements without being haunted by his/her by the Criminal Records have been met. unfortunate past. (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Chuck lamented that many Chuck pointed out that while Board. applications for expungement are the crimes were serious at the To qualify for expungement, turned down because they do not time they were committed and the offence in question must be meet the requirements under the persons were given long one that attracts a non-custodial existing legislation. sentences of 10 years and more, sentence or sentence of He, therefore, noted that his “they have returned to their imprisonment not exceeding five intention is to bring to community, they have lived a years. The person in question Parliament an amendment to the fairly upright life for 15, 20 and must also not have had any other existing law that will allow more years and now they would convictions during a specified additional conditions under like their sentence to be period of time referred to as the which expungement can be expunged”. ‘Rehabilitation Period’. approved. “If they have served their time, Offences such as the import “There are so many cases paid their dues and after 10 years and export of narcotics, e.g. which cry out for expungement, or 15 or 20 years, I think the cocaine and marijuana; murder, but because they are in the Third opportunity should be given to rape, and some offences under Schedule of the Act, they cannot them for their sentence to be the Malicious Destruction of be expunged,” he said while expunged,” he stressed. Property Act, such as arson, making his contribution to the He noted that he will be taking cannot be expunged under the 2021/22 Sectoral Debate in the the matter to Cabinet shortly, current law. Minister of Justice, Delroy Chuck Jamaica has access to US$1.1M from Green Climate Fund KINGSTON, Jamaica – Debate presentation in the The National Adaptation LoCAL projects are aimed at climate change. And we are Jamaica has access to a House of Representatives on Plan aims at integrating building climate-change- going to work assiduously to US$1.1-million grant from the May 4. climate-change initiatives into resilient communities in ensure Jamaica is in tune with Green Climate Fund (GCF), to “The National Adaptation different departments and developing and least developed all the work being done by our commence preparation of Plan will include a private- agencies of government. countries. climate-change division,” the Jamaica’s first National sector-engagement strategy, a Charles Jr also said that a Charles said that at least minister said. Adaptation Plan (NAP) for the finance strategy, and an pilot of the Local Climate four selected Municipal “Climate change threatens current financial year. investment plan for Adaptive Living Facility Corporations will benefit from the very economic base on This announcement was adaptation,” Charles Jr said, (LoCAL) project will be tested. capacity-building and which we seek to build our made by the Minister of and emphasised that Jamaica The preparations for this financing opportunities, such country. Cognisant of this, my Housing, Urban Renewal, has an opportunity to reduce pilot began in the 2020/21 as performance-based grants, ministry is moving to advance Environment and Climate the impacts of climate change financial year and will be over two fiscal cycles. progress in building the Change, Pearnel Charles Jr, for citizens to realise a better advanced during the current “What is clear is that more is country’s resilience to climate during his 2021/22 Sectoral quality of life. fiscal year. being done as it relates to change,” he added.

Mix of sunshine and clouds with a few brief scattered light showers.

High Tide (First) 1:18 High tide (Second) 13:28 London 08 Fair Yesterday: 2.1 mm Boston 06 Fair Low Tide (First) 7:28 For the month: 14.2 mm Max: 28.5 °C Montreal 15 Cloudy Low tide (Second) 19:36 For the year: 270.9 mm Min: 24.0 °C Toronto 14 Partly Cloudy New York 19 Partly Cloudy Miami 32 Fair 5:35 am 6:15 pm 14 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate The Bahamas: US agrees deal to oversee airspace THE Bahamas Air Bahamas, not landing or taking billing and collection of the fees. Navigation Services off in the Bahamas, but simply Mr D’Aguilar noted that Authority and the United flying through our sovereign typically when people purchase States Federal Aviation airspace paid the FAA directly an airline ticket, all of these Administration signed an US$61.75 per 100 nautical fees are embedded in the price. “historic” Air Navigation miles. After 1 May 2021, the “There’s an organisation Services agreement on airspace users will pay the called IATA, the International Wednesday which is government of the Bahamas Air Transport Association, expected to bring in around from US$8.50 to US$51.60 per which is like the Chamber of US$300m in fees over the 100 nautical miles based upon Commerce for all airlines and next ten years. the maximum take off weight all of the fees go to IATA and The occasion signifies The (MTOW) of the aircraft. Once then IATA then takes that Bahamas’ ability to have again, the aircraft that weighs money that you’ve paid for your management over the country’s less and travels a shorter ticket and breaks out between airspace and charging fees for distance will pay less and the some goes to the airport. Some airspace users. While giving aircraft that weighs more and goes in government taxes. remarks at the signing, travels a longer distance will Some will go in these fees and Tourism and Aviation Minister pay more.” that is how monies are settled Dionsio D’Aguilar called it an However, the country does in the aviation sector. The fees “historic day”. not have infrastructure nor the will be built into your tickets “Never before in the history capacity currently to provide and when you purchase a ticket The air space agreement signing with Dionisio D’Aguilar of an independent Bahamas air traffic control services above you will pay for those fees.” (right) and US Chargé d’Affaires Usha Pitts. has anyone paid anything to 6,000ft in the sovereign air Mr D’Aguilar said an annual the government of the space. Thus, under the signed injection of tens of million of based on the weight of the “The fee that we’re collecting Bahamas for the use of its agreement, the FAA will dollars is anticipated due to the aircraft it incurred this fee, is based on the maximum take airspace. Today, that changes,” provide that service on the fees. based on the number off weight of the plane and the he said. Bahamas’ behalf for the next He said: “We’ve obviously had passengers it incurred, they bill number of passengers. So the Mr D’Aguilar noted the 10 years, with an automatic 36- our consultants looking at the JetBlue…they collect the airline will bill that into a ticket associated air traffic control month extension if the traffic flow and based on the money from JetBlue and at the – pennies, 30-40-50 cents. services fees came into effect Bahamas wishes to renew at fee structure that we would end of the month or whenever “Maybe a dollar. I don’t know on May 1 this year. The fees the 10-year period. have designed and we’ve put in we send the bills or respond the specifically because obviously cover planes arriving and The FAA will not charge place, we reckon in the first money will come from JetBlue. each aircraft will attract a departing the country as well BANSA for the continued year it should be between “Now, there is general different fee…..but what we try as aircraft flying over. provision of air traffic services US$20-30 million and then aviation. You may have a to do is in basing the fee on the He explained: “Based upon within the portion of Bahamian obviously right now we’re in a private plane, jump up, and fly maximum take off weight of the the fact that the provision of airspace for which the FAA depressed aviation sector. within the airspace. So that’s a aircraft well obviously in our such air traffic control services currently provides air traffic COVID-19 has significantly bit complex…. a bit more jurisdiction most of the aircraft attracts a fee in almost all service. impacted the aviation sector management to collect those are not very heavy.So they will jurisdictions of the world, on 1 “Upon entry into force of this and we envision overtime this fees. “(Certainly), the vast attract lower fees.” May 2021, all airspace users agreement, 1 May 2021, the growing to US$30-40 million. majority of users in the Mr D’Aguilar noted the that land and take off from FAA will end its collection of So, I’d like to say over the next airspace will be the commercial significance of the Bahamian airports and fly overflight fees for this 10 years we’re signing today a aviation sector for which there’s arrangement, explaining that within Bahamian airspace will airspace,” the minister said. US$300-350 million deal a long established very robust back in 1952, Great Britain met now pay a fee of US$1 per “The FAA will continue to today.” collection system. As you can with United States and Cuban arriving and departing provide air navigation services The minister said officials “do imagine every provider in this officials in Havana where it passenger plus a flat fee of in the sovereign airspace of the not envision late payments,” sector – airports, Bahamas was decided that the provision US$10 up to US$61 for each Bahamas free of charge.” pointing to the collection government taxes, now the of air navigation services over flight depending on the BANSA will pay the FAA a system that already exists in aviation charges – all of that is what is now the sovereign maximum take off weight small fee of US$80,000 per the commercial aviation sector. incorporated into the ticket and airspace of the Bahamas would (MTOW) of the aircraft. The annum for the provision of “You know when you buy the comes into IATA..… So it’s like be divided between the FAA aircraft that weighs less will data, the details of what ticket, the money goes to IATA a 99 percent collection rate.” from the United States and its pay less and the aircraft that airspace users flew through the and IATA then sends it to us. Asked how the fees will equivalent, ECNA from Cuba. (weighs) more will pay more. sovereign airspace in a “So, once we tell IATA that impact ticket prices, Mr United States Charge “Also, prior to 1 May 2021, all particular month. In turn, the JetBlue flew from Fort D’Aguilar indicated that d’Affaires Usha Pitts also spoke aircraft flying over the data will be used to assist in Lauderdale to Nassau and depends on several factors. of the agreement’s importance. Government grants approval for InterCaribbean Airways, FlyAllways to ply Guyana route GUYANA – Minister of Public to come to Guyana. We have just could get some accommodation jets, carry more passengers with Works,Hon. Bishop Juan Edghill approved at the level of Cabinet, on the way forward,” Minister capacity for greater cargo,to being has said the Government has two new airlines FlyAllways and Edghill said. cost down from the economy of granted approval for the Turks InterCaribbean Airways. There Additionally, with the scales and perhaps when they get and Caicos Islands’ are applications of other airlines expansion of the Cheddi Jagan here shuttle them to French InterCaribbean Airways and that we are considering,” the International Airport (CJIA), Guiana, Brazil,Trinidad back into Suriname-based FlyAllways to Minister said. Minister Edghill said the the Caribbean,” he noted. operate the Georgetown route. Minister Edghill added that the Government is hoping to attract Since the reopening of the The Minister made this Government continues to engage flights coming to Guyana from airport in October last year,more announcement during an Virgin Atlantic Airways, a British the East. than 60,000 travellers have engagement with travel agents airline based in England. Virgin He said the intention is to entered Guyana. That number is at the Arthur Chung Conference Atlantic had first expressed promote Guyana as a hub for expected to increase significantly Centre (ACCC) on Monday. Civil interest in the Guyana route in regional travel and international during the course of this year, Aviation Authority (GCAA) 2019. connectivity, and serve as a link Minister Edghill said. Director General Lieutenant “This has to go now to the next between the Caribbean and Since the PPP/C took office, Colonel (ret’d) Egbert Field also level. I think the next stage is a South America. JetBlue Airways was granted Minister of Public Works, attended the meeting. call [between] myself and the “We still want to ensure that approval and has begun its Hon. Bishop Juan Edghill “We are engaging new airlines CEO of Virgin Atlantic to see if … we can bring in the wider body operations in Guyana. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 15

Brazil: At least 25 killed in Rio de Janeiro shoot-out AT LEAST 25 people Police Chief Ronaldo to move out of the area as traffickers recruit including a police Oliveira told Reuters soon as possible. children is a joke,” he told officer have been news agency that “We’re trying to sell the O Dia newspaper. killed in a shoot-out in yesterday’s raid was “the house as fast as possible, Rio de Janeiro is one of Rio de Janeiro, largest number of deaths we can’t continue to live Brazil’s most violent according to local in a police operation in here,” he said. states and vast areas are media. Rio”. Other residents said under the control of The shoot-out took According to local news, officers had seized their criminals, many of them place during a police the gang targeted in this phones, accusing them of linked to powerful drug- operation in a favela in raid engages in drug warning gang members of trafficking gangs. the Jacarezinho area of trafficking, mugging, the raid. Security forces in the city. murders and Sociology professor Brazil have often been Police launched the kidnappings. Ignacio Cano from the accused of excessive use operation after receiving Television images Laboratory for the of force against the reports that drug showed suspects trying to Analysis of Violence at civilian population during traffickers were escape across rooftops as Rio State University anti-crime operations in recruiting children for police entered the favela. dismissed the reasons the major cities. their gang. Meanwhile, residents of police gave for the raid: A court ruling last June Two passengers on a Jacarezinho have shared “To say that drug restricted police action in metro train were hit by accounts of what they traffickers recruit poor neighbourhoods of bullets but survived. witnessed on social children and teenagers to Rio during the pandemic Police in the Brazilian media. deal drugs is almost unless it was deemed FILE PHOTO: U.N. High Commissioner for Human city confirmed the death One resident posted a laughable because essential. Rights Bachelet attends a news conference in of one of their officers, photo of his blood-covered everyone knows that Rio de Janeiro is the Geneva. Inspector Andre floor and said two people these gangs have minors city with the biggest Leonardo de Mello Frias. had died in his house as who work for them.” percentage of people A statement on Facebook police chased the “To say that you’re living in shanty towns in UN human rights said “he honoured the criminals. The man, who going to launch a massive Brazil – 22%. It’s a profession he loved and did not want to give his raid because you’ve population of 1,3 million, will be missed”. name, said he would try discovered that 70% of which are black. chief sounds alarm on violations in Latin America BUENOS AIRES – The attacks against staff of a United Nations human rights group in Haiti and rights chief yesterday pressure to remove the sounded an alarm over leaders of rights what she called the rising institutions in Mexico number of threats and and Guatemala, the attacks against statement said. independent human Bachelet also voiced rights institutions in concern over Argentina’s Latin America by local failure to appoint a rights governments and others ombudsperson for over a in positions of power. decade. Michelle Bachelet said “The fact that we have in a statement that over received complaints from the last two years her institutions in almost a office had received dozen countries in the increasing complaints region is striking from independent activist testimony to the groups in the region that expanding trend and have been harassed and magnitude of the threatened by problem,” she said. governments, lawmakers Bachelet, who is also and vigilante groups. the former president of Incidents include Chile, called on threats against groups in respective authorities to Police launched the operation after receiving reports that drug traffickers were recruiting children for Bolivia, Chile and El investigate the their gang. Salvador as well as allegations. Odour from refinery shuts US Caribbean schools twice in a month THE Limetree Bay in the U.S. Virgin Islands impact on the local Limetree Bay had Resources (DPNR) it was in violation of the refinery in St. Croix is closed campuses community. said on Wednesday determined that the Clean Air Act. releasing “light yesterday due to a The gassy odor has that its preliminary Limetree Bay refinery Even short-term hydrocarbon odours” due noxious odor affecting air been present since investigations revealed was emitting excess exposures to elevated to maintenance being quality on campus, the Wednesday, according to refinery units are sulfur dioxide due to levels of sulfur dioxide conducted on its coker department said. residents on St. Croix. operating normally and hydrogen sulfide being can harm the human unit, prompting nearby “We will continue to The nearby Limetree Bay there was no activity that burned. respiratory system and schools to dismiss monitor the situation, but refinery, had been the would have resulted in an The company agreed to make breathing difficult, students, the company there is the potential for source of noxious odors odour. resume sulfur dioxide according to the EPA. and the U.S. Virgin additional odors while last month that caused During the April monitoring, days after The DPNR said its Islands Department of maintenance continues,” some residents to incidents the U.S. Virgin the U.S. Environmental team is currently Education said yesterday. the company said, feel ill and also shut Islands Department of Protection Agency investigating in the Three St. Croix schools apologizing for the schools. Planning and Natural notified the company that field. 16 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

US birth rate lowest since 1979 as pandemic stress rises Windrush victim AMERICANS had the since 1979, according to was apparent prior to the Older data recession lowest number of babies the U.S. Centers for pandemic and pandemic- and birthrate from in more than four decades Disease Control and related reduction,” Lorna Population Reference wins court fight last year, mirroring a Prevention (CDC). Thorpe, director of Bureau, a nonprofit slump in European birth The CDC did not epidemiology at the statistics collector,showed rates, as the COVID-19 attribute the overall Department of Population the U.S. birth rate reached over application pandemic forced more decline to the pandemic, Health at NYU Langone, an all-time low in 1936 people to take care of sick but experts have predicted said. following the 1929 stock family members or deal that pandemic-led reasons In general, U.S. fertility market crash. with job losses. including anxiety will hit rates have dropped over It once again took a hit fees for family Birth rate in the United the country’s birth rate. the years as women marry through the 1970s in the RELATIVES of a woman claimants, said: “The pain States fell 4% in 2020 to “The recent decline in late and delay wake of big social changes caught up in the and misery that has been about 3.6 million babies, birth rates reflects both a motherhood especially in including the landmark Windrush scandal can imposed on the Windrush its sixth straight annual longer-term downward years when the economy Roe v. Wade restriction apply for permission to generation is decline and the lowest trend in birth rates that has slowed. legal case on abortion. live in Britain without unimaginable. paying thousands of “The Home Office on one pounds in fees, the High hand commiserates their Court has ruled. suffering and yet continues Charging the family of to develop and then defend Lynda Mahabir would be a policies that keep families “colossal interference” in apart.” her human rights, the court “It should pull down, not said. put up, barriers to The fees would cost more Windrush families staying than £20,000. together.” Mrs Mahabir, 52, was In a statement, a Home unable to live in the UK Office official said: “We until 2018 and says the remain determined to right government didn’t correctly the wrongs suffered by the record her immigration Windrush generation.” status in the 1970s. Her The official said more case was similar to than12,500 people had thousands of other been given new citizenship Windrush victims. or had their citizenship When she was finally confirmed for free under able to come to the UK, she the Windrush scheme. risked being separated “We are carefully from her relatives in considering the Trinidad because the implications of this family could not afford to judgment and will continue pay application fees of our work to ensure nearly £23,000, required for members of the Windrush permission to join her. generation receive the Mrs Mahabir took the documentation they need, government to court free of charge, in order to claiming the financial live, work and access impact of the fees had services in the UK,” the separated her from her official added. Finnegan Lee Elder, wipes his eye, as he and his co-defendant Gabriel Natale-Hjorth listen as the verdict is husband,Winston, and five People arriving in the UK read, in the trial for the slaying of an Italian plainclothes police officer on a street near the hotel where they children. between 1948 and 1971 were staying while on vacation in Rome in summer 2019, in Rome, Wednesday, May 5, 2021. Her lawyers argued this from Caribbean countries was a breach of her right to have been labelled the family life, and Windrush generation. Rome jury convicts US friends in slaying of officer discriminated against her It refers to the ship MV ROME – A jury in Italy Presiding Judge Marina As the defendants were after their failed attempt relatives. Empire Windrush, which convicted two American Finiti announced the jury led out of the courtroom to to buy cocaine with 80 The Deputy High Court docked in Tilbury on 22 friends in the 2019 slaying found them guilty of all the be taken back to their jail euros (US$96) in Rome’s Judge Tim Smith ruled in June 1948, bringing in Rome of a police officer charges in the trial cells, Elder’s father, Ethan Trastevere nightlife favour of the family, and workers from Jamaica, in a tragic unraveling of a indictment. Elder, called out, district. Natale-Hjorth and against the home secretary. Trinidad and Tobago and small-time drug deal gone Prosecutors alleged “Finnegan, I love you.” As Elder testified they had Reacting to the ruling, other islands, to help fill bad, sentencing them to Elder stabbed Vice the parents left the paid for the cocaine but Mrs Mahabir told the BBC: post-war UK labour the maximum life in Brigadier Mario Cerciello courtroom, as midnight didn’t receive it. “There are things that are shortages. prison. Rega 11 times with a knife neared, his mother, Leah During the trial, which worth fighting for and this It is unclear how many More than 12 hours after that he brought with him Elder,sat on a curb, looking began on Feb. 26, 2020, the was one of them.“The UK is people belong to the deliberations began, the on his trip to Europe and dazed, holding her head. Americans told the court not really a bad place. It’s Windrush generation, but jury of two judges and six that Natale-Hjorth helped One of Elder’s lawyers, they thought that Cerciello got lots of opportunities, not they are thought to be in civilians delivered verdicts him hide the knife in their Renato Borzone,called the Rega and Varriale were only for me but for my their thousands. and sentences Wednesday hotel room. Under Italian verdicts “a disgrace for thugs or mobsters who had family also and in my mind The Home Office kept no night that set off a law, an accomplice in an Italy.” showed up, and not the go- it was worth fighting for.” record of those granted collective gasp in the alleged murder can also be Cerciello Rega had between, for the The Home Office says it leave to remain and issued courtroom: Finnegan Lee charged with murder recently returned from a appointment on a dark, is currently reviewing its no paperwork - making it is Elder, 21, and Gabriel without materially doing honeymoon when he was nearly deserted street near policy for situations where difficult for Windrush Natale-Hjorth, 20, former the slaying. assigned along with their hotel. The the application fee for arrivals to prove their legal schoolmates from the San The July 26, 2019, killing partner, officer Andrea plainclothes officers wore relatives can be waived. status. In 2010, it destroyed Francisco area, were each of the officer in the storied Varriale, to follow up on a casual summer clothes, Mrs Mahabir told the landing cards belonging to found guilty of murder and Carabinieri paramilitary reported extortion and the defendants Home Office in emails that Windrush migrants. four other counts and police corps shocked Italy. attempt. They went in insisted the officers never finding the money for her Because they came from received Italy’s stiffest Cerciello Rega, 35, was plainclothes and, for showed police badges. family to apply would be a British colonies that were punishment, life mourned as a national reasons never clear in Varriale, who suffered a “daunting task”. not independent, they imprisonment. hero. court testimony, didn’t back injury in a scuffle “We have never been believed they were British Each had been charged The slain officer’s widow, bring their service pistols with Natale-Hjorth while separated from each other citizens. Those who lacked with homicide, attempted who held a photo of her on the mission. his partner was grappling before,” she said. documents were told they extortion, assault, resisting dead husband while Prosecutors contend the with Elder, testified that needed evidence to a public official and waiting for the verdict, young Americans the officers did ‘Suffering’ continue working, get NHS carrying an attack-style broke down in tears and concocted a plot involving a identify themselves as Toufique Hossain, from treatment, or even to knife without just cause. hugged his brother,Paolo. stolen bag and cellphone Carabinieri. the firm representing the remain in the UK. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 17

More support easing vaccine patent rules, but hurdles remain

GENEVA – Several world up of the intellectual property,” Di Maio wrote on Facebook that leaders yesterday praised the Macron said at a vaccine center. the U.S. announcement was “a U.S. call to remove patent However, like many very important signal” and that protections on COVID-19 pharmaceutical companies, the world needs “free access” to vaccines to help poor Macron insisted that a waiver vaccine patents. But Italian countries obtain shots. But would not solve the problem of Premier Mario Draghi was more the proposal faces a access to vaccines. He said circumspect. multitude of hurdles, manufacturers in places like Russian President Vladimir including resistance from the Africa are not now equipped to Putin said his country would pharmaceutical industry. make COVID-19 vaccines, so support it. U.N. Secretary- Nor is it clear what effect such donations of shots from wealthier General Antonio Guterres a step might have on the countries should be given priority welcomed the U.S. decision too. campaign to vanquish the instead. But German Chancellor outbreak. Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Angela Merkel’s office spoke out Activists and humanitarian Johnson and AstraZeneca – all against it, saying:“The protection institutions cheered after the U.S. companies with licensed COVID- of intellectual property is a source reversed course Wednesday and 19 vaccines – had no immediate of innovation and must remain so called for a waiver of intellectual comment, though Moderna has in the future.” property protections on the long said it will not pursue rivals A Merkel spokeswoman, vaccine. The decision ultimately for patent infringement during speaking on customary condition is up to the 164-member World the pandemic. of anonymity, said Germany is FILE - In this March 24, 2021, file photo, a vial of the Trade Organization, and if just U.S. Secretary of State Antony focused instead on how to AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, manufactured by the Serum one country votes against a Blinken underscored the urgency increase vaccine manufacturers’ Institute of India and provided through the global COVAX ini- waiver, the proposal will fail. of moving fast now. production capacity. tiative, is removed from a portable cold storage box in The Biden administration “On the current trajectory,if In Brazil, one of the deadliest preparation for a vaccination, in Machakos, Kenya. announcement made the U.S. the we don’t do more, if the entire COVID-19 hot spots in the world, first country in the developed world doesn’t do more, the world Health Minister Marcelo WTO in recent months, anonymity. world with big vaccine won’t be vaccinated until 2024,” Queiroga said he fears that the Australia, Britain, Canada, the Some 80 countries, mostly manufacturing to publicly he said in an interview with NBC country does not have the means European Union, Japan, Norway, developing ones, have supported support the waiver idea floated while visiting Ukraine. to produce vaccines and that the Singapore and the United States the proposal, the official said. by India and South Africa in India, as expected, welcomed lifting of patent protections could opposed the waiver idea, China and Russia – two other October. Yesterday, French the move. Australian Prime interfere with Brazil’s efforts to according to a Geneva-based major COVID-19 vaccine makers President Emmanuel Macron Minister Scott Morrison called buy doses from pharmaceutical trade official who was not – didn’t express a position but embraced it as well. the U.S. position “great news.” companies. authorized the discuss the matter were open to further discussion, “I completely favor this opening Italian Foreign Minister Luigi In closed-door talks at the and spoke on condition of the official said. 18 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Netanyahu challenger Blinken issues call for national unity reaffirms US JERUSALEM – Israel’s weeks to try to form a new wants to address deeper opposition leader coalition government after economic and social yesterday called for a Netanyahu failed to meet problems. support for unity government and a midnight deadline the “From my first day in vowed to find common previous day. politics, that’s been my ground among the Lapid will have to bring wish, it’s my mission: To ideologically diverse seven parties with vastly find the shared good. To Ukraine amid parties seeking to oust different ideologies into a take Israeli society from Prime Minister Benjamin single coalition. But He disagreement to Netanyahu. has expressed optimism agreement,” Lapid said. Yair Lapid issued the he can pull off the task Lapid, 57, entered Russia tension appeal in his first speech and make history by parliament in 2013 after a KYIV, Ukraine – U.S. military exercises near the since he was tapped by ending Netanyahu’s successful career as a Secretary of State border. Israel’s president on record-setting 12-year newspaper columnist, TV Antony Blinken Zelenskyy has made it Wednesday to form a new term in office. anchor and author. Israeli opposition reaffirmed Washing- clear that he wants government. Netanyahu has left the His Yesh Atid party ran leader Yair Lapid, ton’s support for significant action – “a clear “I believe in the good country deeply polarized, a successful rookie speaks during a news Ukraine at a meeting signal about the European intentions of my future in large part because of his campaign, landing Lapid conference in Tel Aviv, yesterday with and Euro-Atlantic partners,” Lapid said. ongoing corruption trial. the powerful post of yesterday. President Volodymyr prospect,” as he said “They are different people Four consecutive elections finance minister. But the Zelenskyy in the wake Monday on Twitter, with different views, but over the past two years – coalition quickly been critical of of Kyiv’s heightened referring to Ukraine’s the fact that someone the most recent in March crumbled, and Yesh Atid Netanyahu’s close ties tensions with Russia, aspirations to join NATO doesn’t agree with us, – have ended in deadlock. has been in the opposition with ultra-Orthodox fueled by Moscow’s and the European Union. doesn’t make them an Lapid has vowed to since 2015 elections. parties and has led calls recent troop buildup “Postponing these issues enemy.” break the stalemate and The centrist party is for the prime minister to near their border. for ‘later,’ ‘some day,’ ‘(in) President Reuven heal the bitter divisions in popular with secular, step down while on The top American 10 years’ has to end.” Rivlin gave Lapid four Israeli society. He also middle-class voters, has trial. diplomat met with Blinken said Ukraine’s Zelenskyy during his one- “Euro-Atlantic day visit and reiterated aspirations” were the U.S. commitment to discussed with Zelenskyy Shooting Ukraine’s “sovereignty, and that the U.S. was territorial integrity and “actively looking” at at Idaho independence,” while also strengthening its security underscoring the assistance to Ukraine, but importance of Ukrainian didn’t give details. middle efforts to tackle Zelenskyy also said the widespread corruption military support and the and carry out reforms. financial support from the school “Ukraine is facing two U.S. “is increasing,” but challenges: aggression didn’t elaborate. from outside, coming from Both noted that while injures 3 Russia, and in effect Russia has pulled back BOISE, Idaho – A shooting aggression from within, some of its forces from the at an eastern Idaho middle coming from corruption, border, a significant school yesterday injured oligarchs and others who number of troops and two students and a are putting their interests equipment is still there. custodian, and a student ahead of those of the Blinken said Washington was taken into custody, Ukrainian people,” was watching the authorities said. Blinken told a news situation “very, very The victims’ injuries conference after meeting closely,” as “Russia has the were not believed to be life- with Zelenskyy. capacity, on fairly short threatening, Jefferson By visiting so early in notice, to take aggressive County Sheriff Steve his tenure, before any trip action if it so chooses.” Anderson said. to Russia, Blinken “I can tell you, Mr. Police were called to the signaled that Ukraine is a President, that we stand school around 9:15 a.m. Adela Rodriguez, left, walks with her son, Yandel Rodriguez, 12, at the high high priority for President strongly with you,” after students and staffers school where people were evacuated after a shooting at the nearby Rigby Joe Biden’s foreign policy. Blinken said. heard gunfire. Multiple law Middle School earlier yesterday, in Rigby, Idaho. His visit was highly In Brussels yesterday, enforcement agencies anticipated in Ukraine, NATO Secretary General responded, and students could encounter. We had a events,” Gov. Brad Little computers turned off and with hopes for increased Jens Stoltenberg also said were evacuated to a nearby school shooting here at said in a prepared students lined up against military aid and strong the 30-nation military high school to be reunited Rigby Middle School,” statement. “Thank you to the wall. support for NATO alliance “needs to stay with their parents. Jefferson School District our law enforcement Lucy comforted her membership being voiced vigilant and closely “Me and my classmate Superintendent Chad agencies and school leaders friends and began on the front lines of the monitor the were just in class with our Martin said. “What we for their efforts in recording on her phone, so battle against Russia- developments” in and teacher – we were doing know so far is the shooter responding to the incident.” police would know what backed separatists in the around Ukraine.“We have work – and then all of a has been apprehended. Police tape surrounded happened if the shooter east and in the halls of seen some reduction in the sudden, here was a loud There is no further threat the middle school, and came in. The audio government in Kyiv. number of Russian troops, noise and then there were to the students.” small evidence markers contained mostly whispers, Ukraine has seen an but tens of thousands two more loud noises.Then Rigby is a small city were placed next to spots of with one sentence audible: increase in hostilities in remain, and we also see there was screaming,” 12- about 95 miles (145 blood on the ground. “It’s real,”one student said. the east in recent months. that Russia has kept a lot year-old Yandel Rodriguez kilometers) southwest of Investigators interviewed Lucy said she saw blood Ukraine’s military says 35 of weapons, prepositioned said. “Our teacher went to Yellowstone National Park. faculty and staffers on the hallway floor when of its soldiers have been equipment, and they’re check it out, and he found Rigby Middle School has individually. police escorted them out of killed by rebel attacks this also imposing restrictions blood.” about 1,500 students in Lucy Long, a sixth- the classroom. year, a significant rise in the Black Sea,” Yandel’s mom, Adela sixth through eighth grader at Rigby Middle The shooter was quickly from the latter part of Stoltenberg told reporters. Rodriguez, said they were grades, according to the School, told the Post apprehended, and the 2020. Russia, which claims Efforts have stalled to OK but “still a little shaky” National Center for Register newspaper in three injured people were it has no soldiers in end the conflict in eastern from the shooting as they Education Statistics. Idaho Falls that her taken to a hospital by eastern Ukraine, fueled Ukraine, which has killed left the campus. “I am praying for the classroom went into ambulance, Central the tensions this year by more than 14,000 people “Today we had the worst lives and safety of those lockdown after they heard Fire Chief Carl Anderson massing troops and since it broke out in nightmare a school district involved in today’s tragic gunshots, with lights and said. conducting large-scale 2014. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 19

S.Africa’s ANC faces power struggle as top official defies suspension CAPE TOWN – A top official suspended, until my appeal has weekend to formulate a response. in South Africa’s African been heard, and its final outcome It appealed to Magashule to National Congress (ANC) has announced,” Magashule wrote in respect its decision and “subject appealed against his a latter to the ANC. himself to the discipline of the suspension on corruption He said he would not step aside organisation.” charges and attempted to until his appeal was heard. Ramaphosa replaced scandal- suspend President Cyril Magashule said he was plagued Jacob Zuma as ANC Ramaphosa in an suspending Ramaphosa, who leader in December 2017. His increasingly open power faces allegations of vote-buying increasingly bold anti-corruption struggle in the governing during the 2017 campaign to campaign has ensnared rivals party. become ANC leader. An ANC and could help him consolidate ANC Secretary General Ace spokesman said the president, power in the party before a Magashule, who has denied the who denies wrongdoing and faces leadership contest in 2022. corruption allegations, was no charges, had not been Magashule, a Zuma ally who suspended on Wednesday by the suspended. as secretary general is in charge party once led by late apartheid “The ‘step aside’ resolution is of the day-to-day running of the fighter Nelson Mandela. The quite clear on who should be ANC, was suspended in line with move follows an anti-corruption asked to step aside or who should tougher rules for party officials campaign launched by voluntarily step aside. It should charged with corruption. Ramaphosa in 2018 when he took be those who are indicted in a He faces corruption charges over as state president with court of law,” ANC spokesman over a contract to audit homes promises to crack down hard on Pule Mabe told eNCA television. with asbestos roofs when he was widespread graft. The ANC said it had noted the premier of the Free State “I am immediately, and contents of Magashule’s letter, province. He denies wrongdoing. formally, appealing this and the decision to suspend him Magashule had earlier refused unconstitutional suspension, in stood. an instruction for all members FILE PHOTO: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa terms of the ANC Constitution, The party’s top decision- charged with corruption or other appears to testify before the Zondo Commission of Inquiry my suspension is thus wholly making body will meet at the serious crimes to step aside. into State Capture in Johannesburg. Police: Maldives Speaker Mohamed Nasheed injured in blast MALE, Maldives – Maldives’ the blast area in the capital, He served as president from political figure in the country. Nasheed is known as a first democratically elected Male. 2008 until 2012 when he Photos circulated on social champion against global president and current Maldives Home Minister resigned amid public protests. media showed a ripped up warming and an outspoken Parliament Speaker Mohamed Imran Abdulla told a local He was defeated in the motorcycle at the scene but critic of religious extremism in Nasheed has been injured in a television that Nasheed’s following presidential election police did not say whether the this predominantly Sunni blast Thursday near his home injuries were not life- and became ineligible to enter blast was an assassination Muslim nation, where and was being treated in a threatening and that the the 2018 election due to a attempt. However, neighboring preaching and practicing other hospital in the capital, police government will get the prison sentence. His party India’s External Affairs faiths are banned by law. said. assistance of foreign agencies colleague Ibrahim Mohamed Minister S.Jaishankar in a Maldives is known for its The police media unit text in the investigations. Solih won the 2018 presidential tweet described the blast as an luxury resort islands but has message did not give more Nasheed, now 53, became the election. attack on Nasheed. seen rare violent attacks. In details but said it has started first democratically elected In 2019, Nasheed was elected “Wish him a speedy recovery. 2007, a blast in a park in the investigations and urged the leader of the archipelago state Parliament speaker and he has Know that he will never be capital wounded 12 foreign public to refrain from going to after a 30-year autocratic rule. remained an influential intimidated,” Jaishankar said. tourists. Somalia revives ties with Kenya after nearly six-month break MOGADISHU –Somalia said The Ministry of Foreign mediation of conflict Kenyatta “received a special yesterday it was restoring Affairs “looks forward to resolution, Mutlaq Al-Qahtani, message” from Qatari Emir diplomatic relations with further normalization of had visited both countries. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al- neighbouring Kenya almost six relations by the “We believe that normalizing Thani that was delivered by months after severing ties, Somali authorities including the relationship between the the foreign minister’s special accusing Nairobi of meddling with regard to two neighbours is very envoy. in politics. trade, communication, important for political stability, In November, Somalia Relations between the transportation, people-to- especially in Somalia which is expelled Kenya’s ambassador countries have also been tense people relations and currently going through and recalled its own from over the ownership of potential cultural exchanges,” it said in a political turmoil ... and we look Nairobi after accusing Kenya oil and gas deposits, some of statement. It also forward to the elections there,” of interfering in the which lie off the coast of acknowledged the support of he said. electoral process in Jubbaland, one of Somalia’s Qatar in particular in its Somalian President Jubbaland. five semi-autonomous states. efforts to normalize relations. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed In February 2019, Kenya “Now diplomatic relations Qatari Foreign Minister has directed the prime recalled its ambassador after are restored,” deputy Sheikh Mohammed bin minister to prepare a Mogadishu decided to auction information minister Abdulrahman Al-Thani told parliamentary election. A delay oil and gas exploration blocks Abdirahman Yusuf told a news Reuters that Doha had agreed led to a political crisis that at the centre of their maritime conference in Mogadishu, with the presidents of both raised fears al Qaeda-linked al rights dispute. The two saying the Gulf Arab state of countries that they would work Shabaab insurgents could countries had revived ties in Qatar had helped in the on strengthening bilateral exploit a security vacuum November the same year. process. relations and bringing them Somali deputy information if state forces turn on each The two are at present before Kenya’s foreign ministry said “back on track". minister Abdirahman Yusuf other. the World Court to adjudicate that it took note of the Somali The minister said his special speaks during a news confer- State House in Nairobi the maritime boundary government’s announcement. envoy for counterterrorism and ence in Mogadishu tweeted that President Uhuru dispute. 20 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Childish Gambino sued over This Is America copying claim

CHILDISH GAMBINO ments filed in New York. was amplified by its that the similarity in mentioned, he claimed Akademiks noted a simi- is being sued for Childish Gambino, aka provocative music video. lyrical content and deliv- that Glover and his co- larity between the song copyright infringe- Donald Glover, has yet However, in court doc- ery was “striking to an writers made “hundreds and American Pharaoh ment over his to respond to the claims. uments, Nwosuocha said extent beyond coinci- of millions of dollars” by New York rapper Jase Grammy Award-win- there was a “substantial dence” and “audible to from This Is America. Harley. ning rap song This Is ‘Beyond coincidence’ similarity” between the average lay person”. His legal case also However, Harley said America. In 2019, This Is Glover’s track and his The rapper also em- named Childish he had no interest in Emelike Nwosuocha, a America made history own. ployed a musicologist to Gambino’s record label, pursuing legal action. “I rapper who performs as by becoming the first rap He claimed the songs compare the two tracks, RCA, Roc Nation and feel extremely humbled Kidd Wes, claims the track to win song of the shared a “distinct and who concluded that Young Thug, who per- to be recognised and la- song copied his track year at the Grammy unique vocal cadence, “these similarities are formed backing vocals belled as one of, or the Made In America, which Awards. delivery, rhythm, timing likely not coincidences", on the track. original inspiration, for was released two years One of the most-dis- [and] phrasing", and the court documents However, it is not the one of the most impor- earlier. cussed and powerful noted how the choruses said. first time that Glover tant pieces of music and The “lyrical theme, songs of the year, it de- of Made In America and Nwosuocha is demand- has been accused of pla- visual art of our time,” content and structure” of livered a scathing mes- This Is America were ing a trial and is seeking giarising This Is he posted on Instagram. the two songs’ choruses sage about racial in- written in the same damages including lost America. “I appreciate all the are “glaringly similar", equality, police brutality metre. profits and opportuni- In 2018, a hip-hop love and support! But he said in court docu- and gun violence, which Nwosuocha alleged ties. While no sum is blogger named please don’t let this con- troversy dilute the mes- sage me and Childish Gambino are trying to convey.” Childish Gambino’s manager Fam Udeorji rejected the claims of plagiarism, saying his client’s song actually dated back to 2015, “and we have the Pro Tools [computer] files to prove it”. If so, the song would also pre-date Nwosuocha’s Made In America, which he first This Is America topped the US chart and won the posted on SoundCloud in Grammys for both record and song of the year. September 2016.

GOVERNMENT NOTICE

MINISTRY OF INNOVATION, SCIENCE AND SMART TECHNOLOGY

BA-L1046 PUBLIC SECTOR MODERNISATION PROGRAMME SELECTION OF AN E-SERVICES PLATFORM ADMINISTRATOR/OPERATOR

The Government of Barbados and has signed a Loan Contract with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to fund the Public Sector Modernisation Programme (PSMP). The main objectives of this operation are to improve the effectiveness of the Government and enhance the competitiveness of its economy. This will be achieved through: (i) increasing the adoption of the digital channel to access public services by individuals and businesses; and (ii) enhancing the efficiency in the public service and strengthening the skills in the public sector for a digital economy.

The Ministry of Innovation, Science and Smart Technology is seeking to contract an E-Services Platform Administrator/Operator (an individual consultant) to implement, maintain and support the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of the X-Road network infrastructure and core services of the E-Services Platform in the provision of E-Services. The Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank will be used for this procurement activity.

Interested persons should request the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the consultancy from the Project Manager, Public Sector Modernisation Programme via email at [email protected]. You will be required to submit a Curriculum Vitae which clearly demonstrates that you are capable of undertaking the assignment. Submissions will be evaluated based on criteria included in the TOR.

The Curriculum Vitae should be submitted to the Project Manager, Public Sector Modernisation Programme to the above email address on or before May 14, 2021. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 21

Jhené Aiko, Saweetie to perform on AAPI advocacy TV special

NEW YORK – Platinum-selling special, which will include appear- performers of part-Asian descent, ances by Daniel Dae Kim and Lisa including R&B singer Jhené Aiko Ling and “will feature testimonials and rapper Saweetie, will per- from leading Asian American public form on a TV special produced by figures, as well as individuals working The Asian American Foundation, to enact change on the ground,” or- the newly formed organization ganizers said. launched to improve AAPI advo- The TV special coincides with cacy. TAAF’s See Us Unite campaign, TAAF announced Thursday that which launched Thursday and is de- English icon Sting will also perform signed to expand support for the AAPI at “See Us Unite for Change – The community. The Ford Foundation, Asian American Foundation in service MacArthur Foundation, The Henry JJhené Aiko, left, and Saweetie will perform at a TV special produced by The of the AAPI Community.” It will air on Luce Foundation and the Wallace H. Asian American Foundation (TAAF), the newly formed organization launched May 21 on a number of channels, in- Coulter Foundation have partnered to improve AAPI advocacy. cluding MTV, BET, VH1, Comedy with TAAF for the campaign, and Central as well as Facebook Watch. funds raised will benefit several Aiko, who is part-Japanese, is one of “The Worst.” Saweetie is of Chinese, TAAF’s launch comes as anti-AAPI grassroot-led efforts, including Stop R&B’s top stars and has achieved Filipino and Black descent, and has hate and violence persist at alarming AAPI Hate and Asian Americans multi-platinum status with songs like released hits like “Tap In,” “My Type” rates. Actor Ken Jeong will host the Advancing Justice. “Sativa,” “While We’re Young” and and “Best Friend.” Glenn Close and Ted Nash, new duo in jazz

NEW YORK – Glenn Close re- “It was very moving, and Ted didn’t cently made music-related head- know whether he could get through it, lines for her playful performance actually. But when you put your soul of “Da Butt” at the Academy into your instrument, into your music, Awards, but the revered actor has I think it was a very healing experi- some real music news: she’s re- ence for him,” Close said. “A very leasing an album with Grammy- transformative experience.” winning jazz saxophonist-com- “When (my son) started reading the poser Ted Nash on Friday. piece, I didn’t expect to kind of feel the “I learned about Go-go (music) and things that I felt,” Nash explained. certainly about the Washington (D.C.) “All of a sudden it hits me that every- music scene from those years; I was one else is hearing this. They’re hear- able to do that little piece of ‘Da Butt’ ing this personal piece that was a let- because I had looked at Spike’s music ter to me, and I’m playing (music) video. Around the Oscars and after- along with it. And I got very full. But, ward, I was doing this wonderful if anything, that just helped me to character for Gore Verbinski and his have a more profound opportunity of animated featured – it’s not going to expression.” come out for a couple of years – but ... Close, Nash, the orchestra and the it was all funk (music). And now I’m special guests recorded the album at back to jazz. So, yeah, mix it up! It’s Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York really fun and interesting.” City early last year before the coron- The Emmy and Tony winner is used avirus pandemic hit. Close said before to her movies and TV shows premier- making the album, jazz somewhat in- ing but having an album release is a timidated her. first: “I’m very, very excited for it to be “I thought you had to kind of know out in the world, especially now.” what you were hearing. But now I’m Close worked with Nash on his pre- just inspired by it because I think it’s vious albums, but the two are co-stars Glenn Close and Ted Nash. Close is releasing an album with the Grammy-win- deeply American and it’s also deeply on “Transformation: Personal Stories ning jazz saxophonist-composer today. “Transformation: Personal Stories of human,” she said. “It is an expression of Change, Acceptance, and Change, Acceptance, and Evolution,” is an 11-track spoken word jazz album of the human condition, dissonance, Evolution,” an 11-track spoken word that tackles heavy topics like race, politics and identity harmony – all of these different in- jazz album that tackles heavy topics struments playing off each other. In a like race, politics, identity and more. Irving reads “One Among Many,” writ- The musician added that his job good world, everybody gets a turn to Nash, a member of the Jazz at Lincoln ten by former radical Judith Clark at was to help the album’s speakers de- stand up and play their bit.” Center Orchestra, was tasked with the request of Close and Emmy-win- liver with authenticity and “be ab- Though Close, 74, is more known for composing music to match the words ning entertainer Wayne Brady guest solutely supportive of somebody who’s film roles and eight Oscar nomina- – both newly written lyrics along with stars on three tracks and even wrote spilling their guts and support that in tions, as well as three Emmys for TV hand-picked selections by Glenn from an original called “A Piece by the a way that helps it emotionally and performances, she’s always had ties to poets Ted Hughes and Conrad Aiken, Angriest Black Man in America (or, gives them a safe space to do that.” music. One of her three Tony Awards biologist E.O. Wilson and playwright How I Learned to Forgive Myself for Nash plays several roles on the was for the musical “Sunset Tony Kushner. Being a Black Man in America).” album, from composer to instrumen- Boulevard” and she also earned a Close, who offers her voice on three “I feel like every time there’s a new talist to producer and conductor. But nomination for her performance in songs, called friends to help round out project, it’s an opportunity to grow as he also became a subject: His son Eli “Barnum.” She even scored a best the album, including esteemed jazz an artist and embrace new ideas.I speaks about his experience coming original song nod at the Golden musician and Jazz at Lincoln Center think that’s something that as I get out to him as a transgender man on Globes for co-writing “Lay Your Head Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis, older, I realize is more important to “Dear Dad/Letter.” His father re- Down” from “Albert Nobbs,” a 2011 along with the epic players in the me. It’s not just, ‘Oh, I want to write sponds – through instrumental music film Close produced, co-wrote and JLCO. Oscar-nominated actor Amy some hip (expletive),’” Nash said. – on “Dear Dad/Response.” starred in. 22 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

In the shadow of COVID-19, a toll on entertainment workers

NEW YORK – Like so many, The Fund provides a na- 1.2%, was conducted by Morey Friday. More shows are ex- we’ll see an uptick.” the pandemic upended life tional safety net for perform- Consulting. The median pected to circle return dates in Benincasa credited his for actor and dancer Rena ing arts and entertainment household income among all the coming weeks. Actors’ group’s social workers and Riffel. The Los Angeles- professionals in the fields of respondents was $34,186. Equity Association, the na- front-line staff for helping so based performer needed film theater, television, music, Benincasa credited the work tional labor union represent- many, especially at their resi- help with rent, utilities opera, radio and dance. done by the Fund in the years ing more than 51,000 actors dences, which includes a nurs- and counselling when jobs Last year, it served more before the pandemic for keep- and stage managers in live ing home in Englewood, New suddenly dried up. than 40,000 individuals, a 71% ing the loss of health insur- theater, said the news meant Jersey. He also thanked the “Being an artist, we are al- increase from 2019. It distrib- ance coverages relatively the theater community is “one people who have staged con- ready very fragile with our fi- uted more than $19 million in lower than anticipated. Only step closer to the safe reopen- certs and events to raise nances,” she said. ”It’s like an direct cash to about 15,000 in- 10% of respondents reported ing” of Broadway. money for the Fund. ebb and flow. So when the pan- dividuals. that they lost health insur- But Benincasa warned that “We’re proud of the commu- demic happened and every- The Fund helped Riffel get a ance and have not had it re- for those in the arts commu- nity, how they stepped up to thing shut down, for myself grant to cover living expenses, placed. nity, more bad numbers are help us help people,” he said. and for everyone else, there’s gave her financial advice, He said the marketplace likely to be generated in the As for the Fund’s work, he really no hope. There’s no op- pointed her to more schooling provided by the Affordable coming months. The Fund is said: “We’re going to stay with portunity.” and how to pay for it, and of- Care Act was one reason the preparing for a surge in re- it.” Riffel’s experience is echoed fered workshops to broaden rate was low, as well as the quests for direct financial as- In Los Angeles, Riffel said in a new survey by The Actors her skill set and supplied well- Fund’s trained counselors who sistance around housing. things are beginning to look Fund that illustrates the ness counselling. were able to find clients af- “People will be slow to get up for her. “I’ve started audi- depths of need created by the “It just really helped me fordable health care. back on their feet. They’ve ac- tioning again,” she said. COVID-19 pandemic in the stay focused and continue to New York Gov.Andrew cumulated debt. They’ve “Being an artist is really what arts community. Released work on myself as an artist Cuomo said Wednesday that maxed out credit cards. They feeds my soul.” Thursday, it reveals financial and being creative,” she said. Broadway theaters can reopen have rent and mortgages to She credits The Actors Fund hardship, food insecurity and “And just really remain hope- Sept. 14. “Phantom of the catch up on,” he said. for helping her though the lost housing. ful. I think that was the key to Opera,” Broadway’s longest- “My sense is that the fall, dark time. “If I wouldn’t have The survey of 7,163 people it all: Just know that things running show, announced when the moratorium is lifted found my way to them, I don’t helped by the organization – are going to get better.” Wednesday that it would re- on rent and mortgage, I think know what my life would be including Riffel – found that The survey, which has a sume performances Oct. 22, that could have a serious im- because I feel like my life has 76% of respondents lost in- margin of error of plus/minus with tickets going on sale pact on people’s lives and that improved in every way.” come and 40% reported re- duced food security. Some 28% fell behind in rent or mortgage and 20% were forced to change housing. Ten percent of respondents had to sell a large asset, such as a house or a car. “We see the pandemic as having a long tail on its im- pact on performing artists and entertainment professionals, and especially people involved in live entertainment,” Joe Benincasa, CEO of The Actors Fund, said to The Associated Press. A massive 79% of respon- dents reported that COVID-19 had a negative impact on their mental health, with increased feelings of anxiety or depres- sion. “For people working in the gig economy, not always know- ing when they’re going to work again – that stress – the im- A screen displaying messages about COVID-19 light up a sparsely populated Times Square in New York on March 20, 2020. A pact is tremendous,” said new survey by The Actors Fund illustrates the depths of need created by the COVID-19 pandemic in the arts community. It re- Benincasa. veals financial hardship, food insecurity and lost housing. Broadway set to officially reopen in September THERE is a light at the end of but we all know that’s not start rehearsals, and prepare aiming to return starting Sept. owners, producers, and other the tunnel. One of the first what happened. But with vac- to fill seats again. Social dis- 14. League members will continue major indications that the cination rates rising in tancing rules aren’t going to “We are thrilled that to work with the NY State COVID-19 pandemic was America and COVID-19 infec- cut it for Broadway shows, Governor Cuomo clearly recog- Department of Health and the going to be a game-changing tion numbers finally falling, which already lose money a lot nizes the impact of Broadway’s Governor to coordinate the in- emergency in the United the time has come for of the time. So while Cuomo return on the city and state’s dustry’s return and the related States came on March 12, Broadway’s return. has announced most of the economy and the complexity of health and safety protocols re- 2020, when New York Gov. Pop-up shows have begun in state’s COVID-19 restrictions restarting an entire industry quired to do so. We remain cau- Andrew Cuomo ordered Broadway theaters, but now of- will ease by mid-May, an even that has been dormant for over tiously optimistic about Broadway theaters to shut ficial productions have a time- more optimistic prediction a year,” Broadway League Broadway’s ability to resume down. At the time, theaters line to restart. To be clear, the- than New York City Mayor Bill President Charlotte St. Martin performances this fall and are were optimistic they would be aters will need quite a bit of de Blasio’s preparation to fully said in a statement. “Nothing happy that fans can start buy- able to reopen a month later, time to get their casts in order, open up by July, Broadway is beats Broadway. The theatre ing tickets again.” The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 23 Josh Duggar granted bail, must remain apart from family in ‘worst of the worst’ child porn case

JOSH DUGGAR will be re- of children and faces up to 20 Comstock also made the Bob Duggar. Instead, he’ll be leased from jail as he awaits years in prison for each. He point that the ages of some of staying with friends of his par- trial in his felony child pornog- has pleaded not guilty. the children in the pornogra- ents – a pastor and his wife. raphy case. While the judge granted phy are"close to the ages of There will be electric monitor- The scandal-plagued former Duggar’s release, effective your children” – he shares six ing. He’s restricted to the resi- 19 Kids and Counting star, 33, Thursday, she said, “I’m just children, ages 11 and under, dence at all times – except faced Judge Christy Comstock going to remind you how seri- with pregnant wife Anna – as work, church, doctor’s appoint- in U.S. District Court for the ous these charges are.” She well as his younger ments, meetings with his Western District of Arkansas noted the evidence against him siblings.However, while she lawyer and court appearances. on Wednesday for a detention that was presented was “signif- said it was a “very close call” And he must not possess or Josh Duggar hearing. The father of six – ap- icant.” She said the nature of when it came to her decision, view pornography of any kind. pearing from the Washington the crime “concerns the court.” she was letting him out with He is not to use any internet Ark., is not to see any other County Detention Center and She said his past conduct – many conditions. capable device. minor children, including sib- wearing his gray-striped jail- molesting five young girls, in- Per those conditions, Josh The judge did decide he can lings and nieces and nephews. issued jumpsuit – was arrested cluding some of his sisters, will be in home confinement, have “unlimited” visitation As of now, his jury trial is on April 29 on charges of re- when he was a minor teen in but not at his own home, nor a with his children – as long as scheduled to begin July 6 with ceiving and possessing mate- 2002 and 2003 –was also of guest house on the property of Anna is present at the time. a pre-trial conference on July rial depicting the sexual abuse concern. his parents, Michelle and Jim Josh, who lives in Springdale, 1. David Oyelowo fulfills new directing passion in ‘Water Man’

LOS ANGELES – While For years, Oyelowo picked Oyelowo, who stars in the film sics “The Goonies” and apy treatments, she sent him starring in films like their brains to feel confident with Rosario Dawson. “Gremlins.” a photo of her balding charac- “Selma” and “Lee Daniels’ enough to make a leap of his “(Directing) came as a byprod- “Those films have some ter in solidarity. The Butler,” actor David own. The actor’s directorial uct of my acting career. I heavier themes where kids are “It was acknowledging the Oyelowo discovered a new debut, “The Water Man,” ar- wanted to direct because I’ve still involved,” said Oyelowo, limitations and building it into passion: directing. rives in theaters Friday.The been around some of the best who plays Gunner’s father, a performance in a way I think Oyelowo was inspired to film was produced by Harpo people in the world.” Amos. “This film has that sort was important for me to repre- step behind-the-camera after Films with Oprah Winfrey “The Water Man” tells a of a young person in jeopardy sent with dignity,” she contin- learning different nuances of serving as executive producer. story about a hopeful boy theme, which I loved growing ued. “It’s such a vulnerable the craft from respected direc- Oyelowo said he learned named Gunner who is looking up.” state to be in when you’re that tors like Ava DuVernay and about having a grasp on the to save his severely ill mother, Oyelowo said the film’s driv- ill and really dependent on Will Gluck. His desire to act movie’s theme from DuVernay. played by Dawson. The boy ing force is Gunner, played by other people.” and direct in the same movie He credits Gluck with teach- and his friend venture into a 13-year-old Lonnie Chavis, Dawson said Oyelowo – grew even more after seeing ing him the importance of a di- remote forest to search for a who stars on the NBC hit whose late father battled can- successful efforts from his rector capturing all of the ele- mythical figure, who Gunner drama series “This Is Us.” cer – helped her along the way. friends Nate Parker in “The ments in a film: wardrobe, believes carries the secret to “It’s the power of sacrificial She said Oyelowo made things Birth of a Nation” and Joel photography, editing – as well everlasting life. love,” Oyelowo said. “You have easier for herself and the rest Edgerton in “The Gift,” as well as each actor’s performance. Oyelowo said he was drawn this kid who is prepared to of the crew, calling him a con- as Mel Gibson, who won an “I’ve sort of had my own film to the script because the story risk everything to save his summate actor and storyteller. Oscar for best director for school through working with reminded him of his favorite mother. You have this father “He was clear about his vi- “Braveheart.” several great directors,” said fantasy films like the ‘80s clas- who is prepared to save his sion and tone,” she said. “We son. You see a family who is didn’t have a whole lot of time imperfect, but they have a love in the world, but it still felt that I think is pretty much like we did. He really allowed perfect. They define sacrificial us to play and find our mo- love. She’s ill but she doesn’t ments, find our pauses and think about herself. She’s our bursts of energy. He’s such thinking about the relation- an actor’s actor.” ship between her son and hus- Chavis said Oyelowo helped band.” him pull into the emotional After reading the script, state of Gunner. Dawson said she related to “There was a scene where I Gunner’s character, who has to had to climb this big log, and I face his parent’s mortality just was really afraid of heights at like her. The actor said she the time,” Chavis remem- learned that her father was di- bered. “So Mr. David pulled me agnosed with pancreatic can- aside and he gave me a per- cer shortly after she landed sonal story about his life ... the role of Mary, who is bat- something to tap into my own tling leukemia in the film. life. He was doing all this for Dawson said she had some the love and the passion that tough times while filming as he had for the film.” she dealt with her father’s In return, Oyelowo said health. But she said her role Dawson and Chavis made him gave her the opportunity to look good as a director. channel everything that was Oyelowo said he wants to di- going on in real life to help de- rect more projects, if he can liver a relatable story. juggle that with his busy act- “I had to self motivate a ing career. He likes mixing re- strength that just wasn’t ality and fantasy, but he’s also there,” said Dawson. As her fa- passionate about telling Actor-director David Oyelowo on the set of “The Water Man”. ther was starting chemother- African stories. 24 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

New kids’ TV show emerges from the Mister Rogers universe NEW YORK – Mister Rogers’ neighborhood is expanding. In rare welcome news of sprawl, PBS Kids is releasing a new puppet- led series called “Donkey Hodie,” inspired from characters in the original Fred Rogers TV show. “Every part of it seems to be infused with joy and heart and humor,” says Adam Rudman, who co-created and co-pro- duced the show with his brother, David. “And I think that’s something that Fred Rogers would appreciate.” Purple Panda and Donkey Hodie from the new series, “Donkey Hodie." The whimsical series for children ages 3-5 Doherty, chief creative idea, Panda is the sup- Someplace Else, named starts airing Monday officer of Fred Rogers portive friend, telling her after the place where and centers on the ad- Productions. she can do it. Bob Dog is parents are always ask- ventures of Donkey During each 15-minute the enthusiastic helper ing noisy kids to go. It Hodie, an enthusiastic episode, Donkey Hodie and Duck Duck is the has a windmill — an yellow donkey with a learns lessons, like why practical pal, asking how original Don Quixote bright magenta mane. following a recipe step- they’re going to succeed. joke by Rogers — but the She’s the granddaughter by-step makes sense and “We really worked creators have built a of the donkey puppet the importance of mak- hard on the character wonky land with rolling Rogers created back ing a plan before tack- blend,” says David hills and no straight when TV shows were in ling a big project. Rudman, who performs lines. black and white. She’s helped by a color- Bob Dog and Donkey’s “All the little details – “This is a show about a ful gang of friends — grandfather and also di- every flower, every bush, little donkey with big Purple Panda, Bob Dog rects the episodes. “They every tree – everything dreams. It’s about per- and Duck Duck, each of all bring something in- on there is made by sistence, it’s about re- whom brings something teresting and they work somebody. It’s made by silience and it’s about to the table. really well together.” hand. So nothing is built frustration and things If Donkey is the one The song-filled series in a computer,” says Bridge going wrong,” says Ellen who comes up with an is set in land of David Rudman. The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 25 SSPPOORRTTSS Cricket – Is the selection criteria More focus needed during the pandemic too harsh? from Hetmyer By Corey Greaves became just as much a considered the core play- was taken into considera- WEST INDIES lead se- that part of the criteria mental game as it is a ers, but included those who tion for the assessment lector, Roger Harper, is for selection also in- ATHLETES are nor- physical game and though were already travelling and to be considered for as- looking for focus from cluded that the batsmen mally judged and the West Indies craved the with the team in the bio- sessment, players had to talented batsman, must average at least graded on higher stan- blueprint for the return to secure bubbles to help play in half of the matches Shimron Hetmyer, who 30 runs in the Test and dards than others and play,their performance did with preparations. played during the assess- has been left out of the ODI, while they must though hard work not get them over the line This seemed to help ment period. central contracts. play 50 per cent during maybe one of the key for victories. those players who were fi- This left many who have Speaking to the media the evaluation period. factors of success, per- Everyone struggled with nally able to step on the lost their contract with the yesterday during a For the T20, the bat- formance in competi- some glimpses of brilliance field of play in Bangladesh stats to their names in the virtual media confer- ting average and strike tion is often the Gold and it was even more to showcase their improve- assessment period being ence, Harper said that rate combined must be standard for assess- prevalent when the team ments as well as show that those of the initial restart Hetmyer can be a world- 150 minimum. ment and often decides moved from England to after two tours, the players when everyone struggled class player in every for- However, both Harper the fate of the athlete. New Zealand. were finally settling into in the ‘new normal’. Since mat going forward, but and Adams mentioned However, the last 12 After the New Zealand the game. then, they have not been that would require a that losing a central months have been new to tour, some of the players Despite the assurance able to return to the West particular type of focus. contract does not mean everyone as the COVID-19 opted not to continue and by CWI that the players Indies team with the ex- “He has to be a little they are done with the pandemic first brought all go to Bangladesh and the who opted out of the tour ception of Jason Holder more focused and max- players as they can fall sports to an abrupt halt be- CWI said that they would would not be penalised, ac- for the home series. imise his talents as back to the franchise fore plans were put into ac- not have been penalised tions seemed to say other- The West Indies were best as he could,” said contract. tion for a return to play for their actions as it was a wise as many of those the trendsetters for the Harper, as he mentioned Harper mentioned and competition in the unique and new environ- players were not afforded return to play and they that is what they want that they need to build new environment. ment for the players. the chance to play when can once again be the to see. world-class players and Cricket is one of those The players seemed to the home tour began in the trendsetters for how the Harper was joined by that encompasses atti- sports that returned to be coming to terms with Red ball series. athletes are treated for Cricket West Indies tude, focus and working play early last year after the new protocols of play A case can be made for their efforts during the (CWI) Director of towards that with deter- the initial halt and Cricket by the end of 2020 and in the players who went to challenging periods. They Cricket, Jimmy Adams, mination. West Indies (CWI) recently 2021, it was also a familiar Bangladesh and per- do not have to follow every- and mentioned that de- Wicketkeeper, Shane announced their selection environment of playing in formed and then contin- thing the rest of the na- velopmental contracts in Dowrich, who returned for central contracts and the Caribbean. ued in the home series tions are doing as they the central contracts during the New Zealand the period of assessment. The performances and against Sri Lanka, which also set the blueprint in were awarded to Kyle tour, must go through a In a virtual press confer- consistency of the players came at the later stage of the initial stages and Mayers, Joshua Da return to play protocol, ence yesterday, CWI’s improved, and victories 2020 and the beginning of many maybe looking on to Silva, Nkrumah Bonner, according to Harper, Director of Cricket, Jimmy were captured.The tour to 2021. see what the CWI does Akeal Hosein and which they have dis- Adams and West Indies Bangladesh went on with- Adams said that in some with their contracts and Hayden Walsh Jr. cussed with the player. Men’s Lead Selector,Roger out some of what many cases, the previous year players. Harper mentioned (CG) Harper, highlighted some of the key factors which led them to their selection for the contracts. The period of assess- ment for the contracts was stated as March 2020 to March 2021. West Indies were the first cricket team to tour internationally in the new normal environment of bio-secure bubbles and many have praised them for paving the way for cricket to return after about four months of noth- ing. But according to Adams, using the 2020 period as part of the assessment, as the West Indies senior men’s team paved the way with a series of interna- tional tours, was not a problem in his view. Adams even pointed to The IPL was postponed 29 matches into the 60-game tournament. the team travelling with more players and having better preparations for the IPL 2021: English counties offer to host postponed games series than in previous times. A GROUP of counties There is no suggestion they have not offered their moment.” World Cup in India begins But the West Indies have written to the that the Board of Control Old Trafford home as a Wherever the remain- in October. struggled in the initial England and Wales for Cricket in India (BCCI) potential venue. ing 31 games are played, However, finishing the stages despite their best Cricket Board about the is looking for a new venue. An ECB spokesperson any attempt to rearrange IPL in the UK at the end efforts,in both the Red ball possibility of hosting the Cricinfo reported that said: “We speak to the them will have to contend of September would at and White ball formats. remainder of the Indian Warwickshire, Surrey and BCCI regularly about with a packed schedule of least see the England and They were away from Premier League. the Marylebone Cricket tours and other matters international cricket. India squads in the same home during a scary time The Twenty20 tourna- Club (Lord’s) are the in- and we’ll continue doing England end a five-Test place, while some other in- for a long period, travel- ment was suspended on terested parties. so, but we have received series against India on 14 ternational players may ling to England and New Tuesday after several There were reports that no indication that they are September and are due to still be in the country fol- Zealand for the series. At positive coronavirus tests Lancashire were involved, looking for alternative travel to Bangladesh and lowing the conclusion of the top level of any sport, it among players. although it is understood hosts for the IPL at the Pakistan before the T20 The Hundred. 26 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Man Utd CWI offers through to increased number Europa of West Indies League final despite Women’s retainer Roma loss contracts MANCHESTER United ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – bringing her left-hand reached their first final of Cricket West Indies batting skills which is the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (CWI) has expanded also limited in the region. era but lost their seven- the number of West Hector is one of the match unbeaten record in Indies Women’s bright young fast bowlers an entertaining Europa players offered who has been bowling League last-four tie with retainer contracts for with great aggression in Roma. the 2021-2022 season the past few training Edinson Cavani scored to a record number of camps. both United goals in the United last reached, and won, the Europa League final in 2017 under Jose eighteen (18) players. CWI’s Director of second leg of a 13-goal Mourinho. This is an increase of Cricket Jimmy Adams semi-final. three (3) retainer said: The Uruguayan opened before Bryan Cristante with Villarreal – who Ferguson’s silverware contracts compared to “I am delighted for all the scoring with a finished smartly with a knocked out Arsenal – in collection. the 2020-21 season the players who have fabulous first-half effort, shot on the turn. Gdansk on 26 May. Jose Mourinho was with contracts offered been awarded central then found the net with a The Italians had the manager for that most for the first time to contracts, especially fine header from Bruno final word when Nicola United are without a recent United success and developing young those who are new to the Fernandes’ excellent Zalewski’s low drive went trophy since their last he will be responsible for players Kaysia contract list. We saw fit to floated pass in the second in through David de Gea’s triumph in this reviving Roma’s fortunes Schultz and Qiana expand the list of half. legs after taking a competition in 2017, their next season, knowing Joseph. retained players by In between, Roma deflection off Alex Telles. longest run since the five- their only chance of The three players will awarding additional briefly threatened a The 8-5 aggregate year gap between 1985 European football next join the 15 retained play- development contracts to comeback when former victory ends a run of four and 1990, which was season will come in ers from the 2020-2021 three young players who Manchester City forward semi-final defeats for ended by an FA Cup Uefa’s new season, including captain the selectors strongly Edin Dzeko scored his United under Solskjaer success that marked the third-tier Conference Stafanie Taylor, dynamic recommended for ninth goal against United and sets up a meeting start of Sir Alex competition. all-rounder Deandra inclusion.” Dottin and the leading The West Indies T20 International (T20I) Women are currently in wicket-taker Anisa Antigua for their second Arsenal’s Europa hopes ended by Mohammed. high-performance camp This marks a of the year under newly continuation of CWI’s appointed Head Coach investment into Women’s Courtney Walsh. former boss Emery’s Villareal and Girls cricket which The evaluation period ARSENAL’S Europa stubborn defence. That the defeat came at European competitions aims to strengthen and for the 2021-22 contracts League hopes were dashed Pierre-Emerick the hands of former boss this season. widen the talent pool covered performances as Villarreal sealed a semi- Aubameyang struck the Unai Emery will be Villarreal will face available, as well as and statistics from April final victory that will post with a volley but it especially galling for the United in Gdansk’s encourage greater 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021 almost certainly end the was a rare moment of Gunners. Emery was Stadion Miejski on 26 May. participation into the (this was also supported Gunners’ unbroken 25- threat in a display sacked in November 2019 More importantly for the women’s game. by statistics from the season run of appearing in strangely passive for large after 18 months in charge, Gunners, though, the CWI’s Lead Selector for previous 2019-2020 European competition. parts. ultimately leading to the result effectively ends their Women’s and Girls evaluation period). This Trailing 2-1 from the Nicolas Pepe and Emile appointment of Arteta. season and their European cricket, Ann Browne- allows for all first leg in Spain and Smith Rowe both fired With Manchester United chances – a big blow to a John said: players to be appraised knowing that victory in efforts wide early in the seeing off Roma in the club that, a little over two “The last contract immediately after the this tournament second half and other semi-final and weeks ago, was one of 12 period did not see many evaluation period and represented their only Aubameyang hit the post Chelsea and Manchester prepared to walk away international matches as provides a notice period realistic route back into the again with a downward City into the Champions from the Champions we only played five (5) before new contracts on Champions League, Mikel header later in the game, League final,Arsenal’s loss League in order to join the T20I matches against the July 1, 2021. Arteta’s side could not find but such moments were ruins hopes of a Premier proposed European Super England. Despite this, a way past the visitors’ few and far between. League clean sweep of League. the contracted players West Indies Women’s were able to keep contracted players 2021- themselves fit and match 2022 Season: ready. It was therefore Aaliyah Alleyne, the fairest decision to Shemaine Campbelle, return all fifteen (15) to Shamilia Connell, contract.” Deandra Dottin, Afy Additionally, it is really Fletcher, Cherry Ann a positive that three (3) Fraser, Shabika Gajnabi, new development Sheneta Grimmond, contracts have been Shawnisha Hector, awarded for the Chinelle Henry, Qiana upcoming year. This will Joseph*, Hayley allow the requisite focus Matthews, Anisa to be placed on these Mohammed, Chedean young players as they Nation, Karishma continue to progress Ramharack, Kaysia their careers. There has Schultz*, Shakera been a lack of left-arm Selman, Stafanie Taylor. orthodox bowlers in the region, therefore Joseph *denotes players and Schultz will offered contracts Unai Emery came back to haunt Arsenal as his Villarreal side eliminated the team who sacked him in hopefully help fill this for the first time in 2021- 2019. void; with Joseph also 2022 The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 27 Laureus World Sports Awards: Naomi Osaka, Rafael Nadal, Bayern Munich, Lewis Hamilton win JAPAN’S Naomi Osaka has season’s Champions League, the court, I think it is important be a better person.” black livery for the campaign been named Sportswoman were named Team of the Year. to use my voice, because for me Briton Lewis Hamilton in a stand against of the Year at the Laureus Tennis legend Billie Jean I feel like I often hold back a lot claimed the inaugural Athlete discrimination. World Sports Awards, with King received the Lifetime and worry about what people Advocate award, which has Liverpool and Egypt striker fellow tennis player Rafael Achievement award. think of me, but you know if been brought in to acknowledge Mohamed Salah won the Nadal the men’s winner. Laureus cited the “powerful you have a platform it is very the wider impact on society Sporting Inspiration award for Osaka won the US Open in statement” made by Osaka at important you use it,” said made by athletes. “his unique contribution over 2020, while Spaniard Nadal the US Open, where in each Osaka, who won the During the 2020 Formula 1 many years to those in need equalled Roger Federer’s record round she came on to court Breakthrough of the Year season, Hamilton took a knee and for those less fortunate”. of 20 Grand Slam men’s titles wearing a face mask bearing award in 2019. on the grid and wore anti- Nadal’s win was his fourth by winning last year’s French the name of a different African- “My main hopes for the racism slogans as he won a Laureus award, having Open. American victim of alleged future would be just to have record-equalling seventh previously won the German football champions police or racist violence. helped or impacted as many drivers’ title, while his Breakthrough, Comeback and Bayern Munich, who won last “Regarding my activism on people as I could and, hopefully Mercedes team also adopted a main men’s awards. NBA roundup: Bucks eke out win over Wizards Jrue Holiday recorded 29 points, and the top record in the NBA. six assists and five rebounds to The Jazz are up a game on the help the Milwaukee Bucks post Suns with six games remaining. a 135-134 victory over the San Antonio remains in the No. visiting Washington Wizards on 10 spot in the West, in the final Wednesday night. position to make the NBA’s new Giannis Antetokounmpo play-in tournament. added 23 points, nine rebounds Luka Samanic scored a team- and eight assists as the Bucks high 15 points for the Spurs, won their fourth consecutive who only shot 40.2 percent from game. Milwaukee, which played the floor. The Jazz shot a without Khris Middleton (knee), blistering 55.7 percent of their has defeated the Wizards eight field-goal attempts and hit 18 of straight times. 41 (43.9 percent) from 3-point Bradley Beal scored 42 points range. for Washington, which lost for just the fourth time in the past Celtics 132, Magic 96 17 games. Russell Westbrook Kemba Walker led all scorers contributed 29 points, 17 assists with 32 points in his return from and 12 rebounds for his 179th injury to help Boston strengthen career triple-double, two shy of its playoff positioning by beating the all-time record held by Oscar host Orlando. Robertson. Walker, who missed four Beal hit a 3-pointer with 5.3 games because of a left oblique seconds to go to get Washington strain, scored 18 of his points in within one. After a Bucks the first half. Jayson Tatum turnover,Washington’s Garrison scored 27 points, and Evan Mathews saw his 55-foot heave Fournier had 18 in his first hit the backboard and carom off game back in Orlando after the May 5, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks center Bobby Portis (9) takes a the rim as time expired. Magic dealt him to Boston prior shot against Washington Wizards forward Davis Bertans (42) in the third quarter at Fiserv 76ers 135, Rockets 115 to the trade deadline. Forum. Joel Embiid posted his 29th Dwyane Bacon and former double-double as visiting Celtics big man Moritz Wagner off the bench for Cleveland, tied his season high with 25 points and took a 10-point lead Philadelphia extended its had 20 points apiece and R.J. which lost its eighth straight. points against his former team, into halftime, but Minnesota winning streak to six games by Hampton added 18 and 10 and host Denver beat New York. battled back on the strength of routing short-handed Houston. rebounds for the Magic.Mo Hawks 135, Suns 103 Michael Porter Jr. scored 17 8-of-10 shooting from 3-point Embiid paired 34 points with Bamba scored 19 points and The Atlanta reserves, sparked points and Facundo Campazzo range in the third quarter.Bane 12 rebounds to pace an efficient grabbed 15 boards. by 16 points apiece from Lou had 16 points, nine rebounds wound up with 22 points and offensive effort for the 76ers, Williams and Danilo Gallinari, and, for the second straight Kyle Anderson added 20 for the who shot 53.2 percent from the Trail Blazers 141, Cavaliers overpowered visiting Phoenix in game, five steals for Denver.The Grizzlies. floor, including 15 of 35 from 3- 105 the fourth quarter of a blowout Nuggets tied the Los Angeles Karl-Anthony Towns and point range. Damian Lillard scored seven win. Clippers for third in the Western D’Angelo Russell netted 22 Shake Milton scored 19 points of his game-high 32 points in a The Hawks, with the second Conference. points apiece for Minnesota, and off the Philadelphia bench. Kelly game-breaking run in the final unit on the floor, scored the first Immanuel Quickly scored 18 Russell added 14 assists. Olynyk led the Rockets, who 2:10 of the third quarter as 16 points of the fourth quarter. points and Julius Randle, Kings 104, Pacers 93 used just seven players, with 27 Portland routed host Cleveland. Atlanta’s backups, who totaled Derrick Rose, RJ Barrett and Marvin Bagley III finished points, 11 rebounds and eight Enes Kanter (18 points) and 74 points, didn’t allow Phoenix Reggie Bullock scored 14 each with 31 points and 12 rebounds assists.Kenyon Martin Jr. Carmelo Anthony (16) came off to score its first field goal in the for New York.The Knicks lost for to help Sacramento cap a perfect paired a career-high 23 points the bench as part of an offensive fourth quarter until 2:33 was just the second time in 14 four-game road trip with a with 10 rebounds and six attack that featured six players left in the game. games. victory over Indiana in assists. with 10 or more points.The Trail The Hawks’ starting unit was Indianapolis. Jazz 126, Spurs 94 Blazers moved within a half- led by 18 points and 10 rebounds Grizzlies 139, Timberwolves Delon Wright had 23 points, Jordan Clarkson scored 30 game of the idle Dallas from Clint Capela plus 16 points 135 seven rebounds, six assists and points and Bojan Bogdanovic Mavericks and Los Angeles and 12 assists from Trae Young. Ja Morant scored 37 points, six steals for the Kings, and chipped in with 24 as Utah Lakers in their three-team duel Devin Booker scored 30 points Desmond Bane hit a pair of Buddy Hield added 16 points, crushed San Antonio in Salt for the fifth and sixth playoff for the Suns, whose five-game clutch 3-pointers in the final eight rebounds and eight Lake City for its third spots in the Western winning streak ended. minute and Memphis assists. consecutive win. Conference. weathered 42 points from Domantas Sabonis finished Combined with the Phoenix Portland native Kevin Love Nuggets 113, Knicks 97 Anthony Edwards to hold off with 17 points, 13 rebounds and Suns’ loss, Utah regained first paced the Cavaliers with 18 Nikola Jokic had 32 points Minnesota in Minneapolis. eight assists to lead the place in the Western Conference points. Dean Wade had 16 points and 12 rebounds, Austin Rivers Memphis scored 73 first-half Pacers. 28 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate REAL ESTATE Pfizer and BioNTech to donate vaccines for Olympic athletes LAUSANNE, Switzerland Olympic officials in China said in a statement. – Vaccine developers to buy and distribute The Pfizer donation Pfizer and BioNTech will Chinese vaccines ahead of followed talks between TEL: 247-4469 donate doses to inoculate the Tokyo Games and the firm’s chairman and CEL: 284-4667 253-6319 athletes and officials next year’s Beijing Winter CEO, Albert Bourla, and preparing for the Tokyo Games. Japanese Prime Minister Email: Olympics, the IOC said The new Pfizer offer Yoshihide Suga. caribbeanpropertiesltd Thursday. gives the IOC greater “Following this @gmail.com Delivery of doses is set coverage worldwide conversation, the to begin this month to ahead of Tokyo with most Japanese government had PROPERTIES give Olympic delegations countries yet to authorize a meeting with the IOC time to be fully emergency use of Chinese and now the donation Kirtons, St Philip vaccinated with a second vaccines. plan has been realized,” 3 bedroom plus shot before arriving in “We are inviting the Pfizer said in a 2 bedroom apt 4,790 sq ft Tokyo for the games, athletes and participating statement. $685,000 which open on July 23. delegations of the The IOC said any It’s the second major upcoming Olympic and vaccination program Amity Lodge, Ch Ch vaccination deal for the Paralympic Games to lead must be done “in 3 bedroom plus International Olympic by example and accept accordance with each 1 bedroom apt REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE Committee. An agreement the vaccine where and country’s vaccination 6,646 sq ft $650,000 was announced in March when possible,” IOC guidelines and consistent Bagatelle, St. Thomas 17,000 sq ft $170,000 between the IOC and President Thomas Bach with local regulations.” Gibbons, Ch Ch 62000 sq ft into 2 lots 3 bedroom plus Inchcape, St. Philip $520,000 each, or 2 bedroom apt 4355 sq ft $ 96,000 $1M for both 9,835 sq ft $675,000 (reduced) Belle, St. George Marley Vale, St Philip Mercedes driver not 4 acres $400,000 21,780 sq ft $275,000 Breezy Hill, St Philip 3 bedroom, 2 bath Haggatt Hall, St. Michael Sandford, St Philip reduced to $298,000 6336 sq ft $126,000 16,356 sq ft $300,000 counting on Red Bull Under Offer Black Rock, St Michael 3 bedroom, 1 bath Cane Garden, St. Thomas COMMERCIAL 6732 sq ft $360,000 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft mistakes in title bid Mount Standfast, St James Private entrance. LEWIS HAMILTON says strategists made Hamilton said: Enterprise, Christ Church From $187,681 Two properties on 3 bedroom, 2 bath 22,714 sq ft. he and Mercedes “can’t Hamilton’s first pit stop “Definitely the first test continue to rely on earlier to jump him didn’t look great and the 5062 sq ft Ragged Point, St. Philip Asking $1,200,000 $390,000 (reduced) 8,267 sq ft $166,000 mistakes” from rivals ahead. first race we were still up Black Rock, St. Michael Red Bull if they are to And Verstappen had to there but you could see The Belle, St George Rolling Hills, St. George Warehouse/Storage win the title this season. hand the win to the deficit to the Red Plantation style House 12,000 sq ft 4000 sf space 23,861 sq ft Hamilton leads Red Hamilton after catching Bulls. Standing on 4 acres $310,000 (negotiable) $900,000 (reduced) Bull’s Max Verstappen in him and passing him late “We are keeping our $1.1M the championship by in the race because he heads down and working Ocean City, St. Philip Foul Bay, St. Philip eight points after three had exceeded track limits away. Frere Pilgrim, 6150 sq ft $123,000 Approved for condos, races. in making the overtaking “From my side, I am Christ Church 39,242 sq ft $1,600,000. That advantage has move. really happy with the 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Fortesque, St Philip been influenced by small Verstappen then lost output so far. You are two bedroom apartment. Agricultural Land Dover, Christ Church but key errors from Red pole at the Emilia always trying to raise the 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 494,500 sq ft $1,100,000 Hotel 18 rooms fully Bull and their driver. Romagna Grand Prix bar and make as few operational $2,950,000 neg “In terms of overall after an error on his mistakes as possible. But Hanson Heights, St George Silver Sands, under offer output through the fastest qualifying lap. they have been there and 8321 sq ft $595,000 Christ Church weekend, we’ve done a In the race, Hamilton I am grateful because 7,129 sq ft $160,000 Dalkeith, Christ Church better job,” Hamilton was lucky to be able to you learn from them, but 17,371 sq ft approved for Ealing Grove, said. recover from going off there are 20 races to go.” shops and offices Christ Church Bushy Park, St. Philip “We have a good track and damaging his Verstappen said: “I 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths $495,000 24,000 sq ft $190,000 package but it has weak car. The race was stopped always try to get the best 9320 sq ft $565,000 areas which we are after a crash involving possible results out of it. Apes Hill, St. James Roebuck Street, working on. Bottas and Williams’s I went twice outside of LOTS FOR SALE 31,000 sq ft upward Bridgetown Large lots at $15 per sq ft Shopping Mall/Office space “You’re seeing the George Russell shortly the track limits where it Boarded Hall, $8,100,000 negotiable closest battle you’ve seen afterwards, which cost me basically a pole Christ Church Mount Wilton, St. Thomas for some time. Max is allowed Hamilton to and a fastest lap but it’s 10,429 sq ft $157,000 15,500 sq ft and 22,066 sq ft Batts Rock, St Michael performing exceptionally reclaim the lap he had also because I don’t settle $300,000 and $220,000 Guest House, 12,078 sq ft well. He has a lost and recover from for second or third. Westbury Road, St Michael $2,850,000 negotiable championship-winning ninth to second after the “It is exciting and I am 2,520 sq ft $45,360 Union, St. Philip car and team without a restart. looking forward to every 7560 sq ft Cane Garden, St Thomas doubt who can really pull In Portugal last single battle. We finally Goodland Gardens, $150,000 3.6 acres approved off the job this year if we weekend, Verstappen lost have a car which is Christ Church Roadfront don’t do our job.” pole after going beyond capable of having good 9,605 sq ft $145,000 Thorpes, St. James $1,650,000 negotiable Mercedes went into the track limits when caught results every weekend, 11,376 sq ft with structure season behind Red Bull by a gust of wind on his whether that is first or Nursery Road, St Philip $235,000 Fitts Village, St James on pace, especially in fastest qualifying lap. third or second it will 9,266 sq ft $139,000 Guest House, 4 Suites qualifying, but have had He then had a slide out depend on the track. Cottage, St George 6,135 sq ft two poles - one from of the last corner shortly “It is really enjoyable. Lashley Road, St Philip 5000 sq ft $750,000 negotiable Hamilton and one from before Hamilton passed So far we have had some 5,839 sq ft, $150,000 $110,000 (negotiable) team-mate Valtteri him for second place, good results. I am happy, Mason Hill Street The City Bottas - and two wins for before the Briton went on things can always go Salters, St George 26,500 sq ft with buildings Morningside, St Philip the seven-time champion, to pass Bottas for the better but from both 2 lots 32,760 sq ft, $230,000 $4,000,000 negotiable 4567 sq ft $133,000 against one pole and win lead and win. sides, from the car or for Verstappen. And Verstappen lost myself. It is never good Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy Jupiter Gardens, St Peter All enquiries to 14,876 sq ft. $110,000 7312 sq ft (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 Verstappen lost the the point for fastest lap enough even if I would $133,000 (negotiable) or (246) 247 4469 lead in the first race in after exceeding track have won three races so Bushy Park, St. Philip Bahrain when Mercedes’ limits again. far.” The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 29

Anti-Olympic petition gains tens of thousands of signatures

TOKYO – An online petition calling specialists. for the Tokyo Olympics to be can- The petition was organized by Kenji celed has gained tens of thousands of Utsunomiya, a lawyer who has run sev- signatures since being launched in eral times for Tokyo governor. It regis- Japan only days ago. tered about 50,000 signatures in the first The rollout of the petition comes with 24 hours after being launched. Tokyo, Osaka and several other areas “Government policies are being set with under a state of emergency with coron- the Olympics in mind, and measures to avirus infections rising — particularly curb the coronavirus pandemic are being new variants.The state of emergency is to neglected,” Utsunomiya told The expire on May 11, but some reports in Associated Press.“Hospital are stretched Japan say it is likely to be extended. thin, and some people are dying at home.” The postponed Olympics are to open in The headline in English over the peti- just under three months on July 23. tion reads:“Cancel the Tokyo Olympics to The petition is addressed to protect our lives.” International Olympic Committee The petition suggests the Olympics can- President Thomas Bach, who has tenta- not be held safely and says the games tive plans to visit Japan later this month. have drained finances away for other He is expected to meet the Olympic torch needs such as the rollout of a COVID-19 relay on May 17 in Hiroshima, and per- vaccine. Only 2% of the Japanese public haps also travel to Tokyo where small have been vaccinated. Japan has attrib- anti-Olympic are protests being planned. uted 10,500 deaths to the virus, good by Although 70-80% of Japanese citizens In this March 25, 2021, file photo, a "No Olympics" banner is placed by pro- global standards but not as good as many in polls say they want the Olympics can- testers in Tokyo during a demonstration against the going ahead of the Asian neighbors. celed or postponed, there is no indication Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. “In order to host the Tokyo Olympics this will happen. Japanese Prime and Paralympics in July,we must devote Minister Yoshihide Suga, Tokyo organiz- The Olympic torch relay has been criss- “safe and secure,” though his has been a large number of medical professionals, ing committee president Seiko crossing Japan for a month. Organizers challenged by local medial specialists, valuable resources such as medical facil- Hashimoto, and Bach have repeatedly say that eight people working on the relay and in an editorial last month in the ities and medical equipment, and various said the games will go on as scheduled. have tested positive for the virus. British Medical Journal. It said mass other resources,” the petition says. Organizers and the IOC unveiled so- The Tokyo Olympics have become a events like the Olympics are “neither safe In a survey conducted by the nationally called Playbooks last week, explaining face-saving exercise for Japan, which has nor secure.” circulated Mainichi newspaper,nine pre- rules for athletes and others to show how officially spent $15.4 billion to prepare Organizers say they will need 10,000 fectural governors said they wanted the the Olympics can be held in the middle of them. For the IOC, the Tokyo Olympics health workers to support the Olympics. games canceled or postponed again. Most a pandemic. Several test events have been are critical since 73% of its income comes They have also requested 500 additional of the 47 governors declined to answer, conducted in the last few days, and organ- from selling television rights. nurses — a nurses’ federation balked at saying they had no decision-making izers have reported few problems. Organizers say the Olympics will be the request — and 200 sports medicine power. 30 • Friday May 7, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

NHL fines Rangers $250K for criticizing player safety call THE New York said. “It is terribly unfair game in league history. Rangers in less than 72 to question George Parros’ Buchnevich was thrown hours lost their best professionalism and dedi- out of the game for cross- player to injury, fired cation to his role and the checking Capitals forward their president and department of player Anthony Mantha in the general manager, and safety.” second period and had his will likely see another The uproar dates to own hearing with the de- player suspended. Monday, when partment of player safety They are also out a Washington’s Tom Wilson Thursday.He could be sus- quarter-million dollars was involved in a scrum pended for the final two in the latest chaotic against the Rangers that games of the season. chapter for the storied left New York star Artemi The Rangers have even franchise. Panarin injured and un- bigger issues to address: The NHL fined the able to finish the final Owner James Dolan Rangers an extraodrinary three games of the season. abruptly fired team presi- $250,000 on Thursday for Wilson was fined $5,000 dent John Davidson and what Commissioner Gary for roughing against Pavel general manager Jeff Bettman called demean- Buchnevich but not sus- Gorton on Wednesday and ing personal comments pended, prompting the turned those jobs over to made publicly about head Rangers to issue a state- former assistant Chris of player safety George ment calling the decision a Drury. Parros. It’s believed to be dereliction of duty and It was not clear how the largest publicly an- saying Parros was unfit to much the Wilson-Panarin nounced fine of its kind in remain in his job. incident and statement Washington Capitals and New York Rangers fight in the opening seconds of NHL history. Playing two nights after had to do with Dolan’s de- an NHL hockey game Wednesday, May 5, 2021, in New York. “While we don’t expect Wilson threw Panarin to cision. He said simply that our clubs to agree with the ice, the Rangers and “in order for the team to ecutive Glen Sather in his coming this summer. the team has gone every decision rendered by Capitals racked up a com- succeed in the manner our transition. With a new “We’re going to look through on and off the ice, the department of player bined 141 penalty minutes fans deserve, there needs regime in place and grow- everything and try to fig- and we’re going to take a safety,the extent to which in a fight-filled game to be a change in leader- ing expectations for the ure out how best to take look at every aspect of the the Rangers expressed Wednesday night. The six ship.” Rangers in their rebuild, a the next step forward,” organization when things their disagreement was fights in the first five min- Drury will get a hand coaching change could be Drury said.“It’s been well- end and we’ll start that unacceptable,” Bettman utes were the most of any from longtime hockey ex- next with more moves documented everything process next week.” The Barbados Advocate Friday May 7, 2021 • 31

P R O HOROSCOPES S A Aries - A number of expenses will occur at the same N time. Paying these at once could make a big dint in D your bank balance. Hesitate before buying anything. A youngster in the family has a big list of things they C want but when you discuss this, most of these items, O they probably don't need at all. N S Taurus - You're trying to solve problems that recently cropped up but this is proving more difficult than ex- pected. Listening to the advice of too many people has left you confused and bewildered. After a sleepless night you are no further forward. Put this matter aside and return to it when you are thinking more clearly.

Gemini - You might ask a glum friend or colleague: why the long face? You would like to help cheer them Z up but if they won't tell you what is wrong, there is I nothing you can do to help. You are feeling particu- larly satisfied with developments in your career. In this T area, things are starting to go your way. S

Cancer - You can see the light at the end of the tun- nel. Prior to this you hadn't imagined having been able to get this far. Challenges are slightly different but they can still be overcome. Before making any changes, ideas need to be assessed to ensure they will fit in with the current system. People are showing a lot of inter- est in plans being discussed. R Leo - There may be some talk about someone having E achieved a goal before you. This will be completely X false. Even though you are up against another hurdle and this will be difficult to overcome, you are in high spirits. A mentor is so open and generous with their M time. They will help keep you motivated. O R Virgo - A friend who is recovering after an operation G or illness will appreciate your company. A gift of A flowers will make someone's day. You could be fac- N ing an uncertain few days with regard to a career mat- ter. Keep visualising yourself achieving your goals. Someone will nominate you for a prize or award. This will lift your spirits.

Libra - Something special will happen that will mean plans previously postponed will be brought forward. Nothing is predictable and you will be surprised by P some things that are now going on. Your love life will H soar to heights you had never dreamed of. Meditation or quiet contemplation will help you understand your A changing thoughts and beliefs. N T Scorpio - As you get started on a new project you will O find out that someone else has done a lot of the M groundwork for you. It will turn out this is as impor- tant to them as it is to you. There has been so much wrapped up in this. As dramatic as it might seem at the moment, it will all become part of your story.

Sagittarius - You have some massive hurdles to over- come. If there is anyone who can do it, it will be you. Someone has a compelling story to tell. Their words M will inspire you. This could be the greatest challenge A you have ever faced and you are facing it with courage and determination. R Y Capricorn - Although a cautious approach will be taken, being able to focus on the disadvantaged will W be the next aim of a community project. More invest- O ment will be needed for this venture to be as success- ful as everyone hopes. A fundraiser will bring in more R than anyone envisaged and this will come as a tremen- T dous relief. H

Aquarius - Join in when you hear housemates dis- cussing purchasing new equipment for the home or garden. There will be pros and cons everyone should consider before making a final choice. A group event M will be postponed after someone in a position of au- O thority has the final word, even though their objections T will be outvoted by all else who are around. H E Pisces - You could do with a change of scenery and R you are looking forward to getting away. You aren't sure yet exactly where you are going or when but you G will be getting together with your family to discuss a O few possibilities. Take a practical approach and you O will manage a great deal. S E Cricket – Is the selection criteria during the pandemic too harsh?

Page 25

Friday May 7, 2021 PHASE 3 UNDER WAY Temporary bridge closure and traffic changes highlighted WITH the start of Phase III of the Constitution River Project, motorists can expect some changes as they access the major roadways into Bridgetown. The Barbados Advocate spoke to Chief Executive Officer of Haigh Communications Inc., Joy-Ann Haigh, about the recent development yesterday. She reiterated some of the changes outlined in a recent communication on the status of the important initiative. A Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. (BTI) press release informed the public that there is a temporary closure of the bridge at Constitution Road between John Beckles Drive and Nursery Drive from May 5 to May 28, 2021. This closure, due to the continuation of the Constitution River Project Phase III, is to preserve public safety during the period of construction and is subject to extension, if weather conditions delay the scheduled works.

PHASE 3 on Page 6 Workers putting barriers in place to prevent access to the construction zone. BNA President: Midwives play a pivotal role By Krystal Penny Bowen Midwife during COVID-19”, created by the pandemic, newborn. Midwifery is the only stock and move forward with Francis-Miller said the COVID- Francis-Miller said midwives profession whose education and renewed energy and joint MIDWIVES play a pivotal role 19 pandemic has affected all continue to show resilience and training are dedicated to the commitment. in providing healthcare services. areas of perinatal care. provide life-saving services to care of pregnant women, new “We still have a long way to This was the message on Francis-Miller outlined that pregnant women, ensuring mothers, and their newborn cover to achieve the Sustainable Wednesday from President midwives’ challenges were healthy outcomes for women and babies. However, the significant Development goals target for of the Barbados Nurses not being able to initiate their babies. contribution midwives make to 2030. Midwives do make a Association (BNA) and breastfeeding, isolate babies “Midwives are the unsung saving the lives of mothers and difference – we save lives. We Chairperson of the Midwives from their birth mothers, no heroes of maternal and newborn babies must be recognised,” said provide quality midwifery Group, Valarie Francis-Miller, home-visits for the women by the health.The role of the midwife is Francis-Miller. care. Therefore, I am asking on International Day of the midwife due to the lockdown comprehensive, but unique. It The BNA President the Government and the Midwife. restrictions, no group teaching involves education, treatment, emphasised that midwives are policymakers in the Ministry Under the theme, “Follow the during clinic visits, and there and collaboration with other protecting themselves and at of Health and Wellness to Data: Invest in Midwives”, the was an increase of unbooked members of the healthcare the same time, sustain the level recognise the Midwifery medical professional stated that women. Institutional stigma and team. The midwife is trained of care for expected mothers. profession and the important the COVID-19 pandemic has put misconception among midwives to prepare for obstetric She said that over this period, role of the Midwife as we partner the global spotlight on midwives and the possible fear of the emergencies of pregnancy and midwives have recalibrated and together to achieve the and nurses, and their critical unknown fuelled the stigma that childbirth such as shoulder adjusted quickly. Sustainable Developmental role. During the virtual event one would catch COVID-19. dystocia, preeclampsia, maternal Francis-Miller indicated that Goals for 2030,” said Francis- entitled “The Challenges of the But despite the challenges sepsis, and resuscitation of the it is time for midwives to take Miller.

Printed and published by Advocate Publishers (2000) Inc. Fontabelle, St. Michael. Telephone 467-2000, Fax 434-2020/434-1000