Established October 1895 Foreign exchange reserves expected to increase PAGE 3

Saturday March 21, 2020 $1 VAT Inclusive Most persons recover MINISTER of Transport, Works and $20MWELFARE Department clients CUSHION Maintenance, Dr. William Duguid, is are slated to receive a 40 per cent urging persons not to focus on the increase in all grants and fees, while number of persons who have succumbed lower income households are set to the COVID-19 virus, but the thousands to get some assistance from those of persons who have fully recovered. better off. Speaking in the House of Assembly These were some of the initiatives yesterday morning as the debate on the contained within a $20 million Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure Household Survival programme outlined continued, Dr. Duguid said it is very by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley sensational to look at the number of last night during her wrap-up of the people that did not recover. Appropriations Bill at the Worthing “We have to understand that 97, 98 out Corporate Centre. of every hundred people will recover from The programme is part of the exposure. In fact, the vast majority have Government’s response in seeking to very mild symptoms... So bear in mind, cushion vulnerable families from fallout yes we will get numbers, yes I anticipate from the COVID-19 pandemic. if the California numbers are correct that “We will support the likely increase over 50 per cent of their population will and demand for the Welfare Department get exposure, then we will have some as a result of COVID-19 and immediately people succumbing. But the greater announce here, an increase of 40 per cent importance is that 97, 98 and if we follow in all rates and fees paid by the Welfare the guidelines, maybe even 99 per cent of to the clientele that it services on an people will recover from exposure,” he annual basis. stated. “In 2018, this Government increased But Duguid is not downplaying the the Welfare Department’s vote by seriousness of the virus, which he said $5 million on top of the $15 million it can have a negative impact on this was getting for a number of years. The country and the wider world for months increase that this is likely to cost us is or even years to come, given the health just under $10 million and therefore crisis we now face and economic crisis will see an additional amount to the that is expected to follow. His comments department to help it be able to deal with came as he said it has been some time the increase in fees,” she said. since the world has seen a pandemic of In addition, Mottley said Government’s this nature. plans to identify and help the 650 most “We as a people have to wake up and vulnerable families will be extended to take stock.Take stock not only of how we 1,500 families, and noted this would not do business, take stock of not only how we only be those provided for by the Welfare relate to one another but take stock of Department, but those the Household how we are interfacing with the world, Mitigation Department identified as how we interface with each other, how we retrenched workers. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley. are able to communicate, how business is With $10 million to be used for such a done,” he said. purpose, the PM said while the amount while appealing to the 5,200 households Economic Affairs. He added, “When you have situations was not large, “it was an amount that is with an annual income of over $100,000 Already, Mottley disclosed, the Massy where people can no longer earn, where still intended to help people and is larger as well as companies which could afford Foundation has agreed to seed fund people can no longer go to work and be than the initial welfare grants”. it, to help those living close to or below $200,000 immediately. She also lauded productive members of the community “The amount will be $600 a month by the poverty line by making contributions the offer of international superstar and the society, we have a problem.” 1,500 families works out to $900,000 a to the initiative. Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty to purchase He said the best way to manage the month and will allow them to be able to “A country which knows what it is $1.4 million in ventilators, Courts for its situation is to manage the spread and feed their families. These funds must be to carry each other, cannot now watch donation towards hospital beds and “flatten the curve” through such things the subject of urgent action,” she stated. others suffer in this environment,” she Sagicor for temperature monitors to help as social distancing, to ensure that the Mottley also said an ‘Adopt Our said, noting the programme would be the island with its response to the country’s resources are not stretched to Families’ programme would be launched, chaired by the Director of Finance and pandemic. (JMB) the breaking point. “It is not that we won’t get exposure to it, we will get exposure to it based on what California is saying. But what we are trying to do is to expand the time Two more COVID-19 cases confirmed that it takes for it to spread through the BARBADOS remains at Stage 1 of its island. On Thursday, the Ministry of reflects an increase from the initial two population and then come to an end.” National COVID-19 Preparedness Plan, Health and Wellness conducted 23 tests cases announced by officials on Tuesday The Minister continued, “So it means this as the national count of recorded on suspected cases, bringing the total this week. Additional cases were we have to follow the guidelines. The confirmed COVID-19 cases now stands tests done to 94 to date. announced on Thursday. On this day, World Health Organisation protocol on at six. The Ministry has initiated the process Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley said guidelines, which this Government is The island recorded another two new of contact tracing to identify every they were three new cases of COVID-19. following, we have to stick to that. We cases of COVID-19 yesterday.The newly individual who came in close contact There were two for Barbados and one have to follow what the Government puts diagnosed persons are two Barbadians: with all cases and will quarantine such which was facilitated for a cruise line. out for us to do.We have to make sure a male in his 20s and a female in her persons for 14 days. They will also be The local cases were a 60-year-old that we do exactly as we are told and we 60s, both of whom recently returned to tested for COVID-19 if they become Barbadian who arrived from New York have to come together as a people to be the island from the United States. symptomatic. able to get over this hump. And we will Testing is done twice daily on the This new number of confirmed cases TWO CASES on Page 2 get over it, but we got to work together.” 2 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Continue Four crew to give to members test positive HIV/AIDS TWO CASES from Page 1 over the weekend and a 48-year-old male. The latter person is the spouse of the visiting female, who was one of the first Food Bank two individuals who were tested and FOOD Bank Manager, Stacia found to have COVID-19 on Tuesday. Whittaker, says the HIV/AIDS Food Crew members who test positive for Bank is always in need of donations COVID-19 are not added to the national and is encouraging Barbadians to count, as these cases are being treated as continue to donate. international conveyance, in keeping with Whittaker added that donations of International Health Regulations. fresh produce are especially welcomed. Over the last two days, the Ministry of “It is early in the year, yeah, but we Health and Wellness responded to a re- still encourage persons to contribute quest from a ship’s captain to have four where they can.Any donation is never too crew members tested. Those results came small and what we have been also trying back positive for COVID-19. None of these to hammer home is that we are trying to individuals came on shore in Barbados make our hampers even more healthier. and remain isolated on board the ship. So we are stressing more individuals also The Prime Minister announced on in addition to non-perishables to also do- Food Bank Manager, Stacia Whittaker, as she speaks to the media. Thursday that shore leave for all crew nate where possible fresh produce like members of ships docked in the your fruits, vegetables, ground provisions, “We are sharing with our clients as they dition to nutrition, we are trying to tell Bridgetown Port was prohibited. fresh eggs, things of that nature so that come to the Food Bank or our clinic, in- people stay hydrated, top up on the vita- Earlier this week, the Health and we can have a variety of selections that crease or improve your basic hygiene of min C. If they have vitamin C supple- Wellness Minister, Lt. Colonel Jeffrey we can provide for our clients.” washing your hands frequently,washing ments or fresh fruits, top up on that and Bostic, during a press briefing at Ilaro Turning her attention to speak in light them properly,avoid touching your nose, stay well hydrated and try to manage Court, said Government was taking steps of this week’s confirmed cases of COVID- your eyes, your mouth. any stress and take the medication so to increase the number of test kits as it 19 in Barbados,Whittaker is encouraging She continued, “If you do have any that their immune system can be able to relates to COVID-19.The island is expect- clients of the bank to avoid being in symptoms – cold or anything that you handle any additional stress basically.So ing to import 50,000 test kits. These will crowded areas and to increase their basic are not sure, let our nurse or doctors know take the medication as they ought to and be 5,000 by early April and 20,000 after. hygiene. and try not to be in crowded areas. In ad- stay hydrated.” (MG) (MG/SP/BGIS) The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 3

Mottley calls Foreign exchange reserves for a Day expected to increase of Prayer BARBADOS has fairly we are now about to do to help of that is that on top of the “Today as I speak to you, on Sunday healthy foreign exchange save the Barbadian people as $1.56 billion, we are likely to with just 11 days to go to the IN light of the COVID-19 pan- reserves at $1.56 billion we go into this woeful and be able to have access, within end of this fiscal year, we are demic and its ongoing impact and the figure is expected awesome crisis,” she said. the next four to eight weeks, recording a primary surplus on Barbados, Barbadians are to grow even more in the The Prime Minister’s the sum of $360 million, of 5.7 per cent or $597.5 mil- being asked to participate in coming months, which will comments came as she said making sure that we move lion, well on the path to a Day of Prayer, which will be come in handy for a “rainy that the Inter-American from five and half months of hitting it. But it is at that held on Sunday,so prayers can day”. Development Bank, just a import coverage to literally, point that we would soon start be offered up for the nation. Prime Minister Mia Amor week ago, agreed to a sustain- Mr. Speaker, about 27 weeks, to deviate, because there is no Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley made the comments ability policy-based loan for which is the equivalent of six glory in hitting targets and Mottley recently announced in the House of Assembly yes- $160 million. She indicated and a half months roughly, al- people suffering; there is no the above, noting that a num- terday evening, while outlin- that those funds will come into most seven months of import glory in telling people that you ber of priests had reached ing the state of the economy, the island over the next few cover,” she said. passed an exam and people out to her, asking for such a as she wrapped up the debate weeks to further boost the The PM, who is also the can’t eat; there is no glory in day. on the Appropriation Bill import cover and provide Minister of Finance, Economic being viewed as stellar, and “I received some calls from in the House of Assembly. more flexibility. Mottley Affairs and Investment, told pain and suffering is about a number of priests today According to Mottley, when went further, revealing that the Lower House that not only to ensue in too many of our (Thursday) and they have all her party assumed office, under the International are the reserves up, but there households and families,” asked for a Day of Prayer and reserves accounted for only Monetary Fund’s Enhanced has been a significant reduc- she stated. I would like to advise that we five weeks of import cover; Fund Facility, they will get tion in the country’s debt. She PM Mottley spoke to this are going to agree that on Government now has five and $200 million Barbados dollars indicated that it dropped from while painting a complete Sunday, there ought to be a a half months. on top of the $440 million 176 per cent debt-to-GDP ratio picture of the economy with Day of Prayer for the whole “That reserve cover for a allocated in the original pro- to 118.8 per cent and she gave reduced expenditure and nation, as we embark on this rainy day allows us to be able gramme. the assurance that they are an increase in revenue. In new unchartered territory,” to plan out the package that I “What that means, and they committed to bringing down respect of the latter, she said Prime Minister Mottley indi- would want to announce here have given us the flexibility of the debt further to 60 per cent that for the first 11 months of cated. today,the Phase One package. treating first as reserve cover, by 2033. She spoke also of the the financial year, the figure “It doesn’t necessarily mean Because if we didn’t have it, I but using it also for budget- effort to reach the six per cent stands at $2.6 billion, $91 mil- that people have to go church wouldn’t be able to have the ary support should we need to primary surplus target this lion more than for the same in the same way,but wherever flexibility to do the things that do so later. But the bold result financial year. period last year. (JRT) we are in Barbados and they will announce those arrange- ments themselves or through the Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs. (So) wherever we are, Sagicor donates we will have that Sunday as a Day of Prayer because we know that for the past 300 US$1 million to fight years, the Lord has been the people’s guide, with Him still on the people’s side, we have no doubts nor fears,” the PM spread of COVID-19 further stated. SAGICOR Financial Company critical medical equipment. Up to press time, Barbados Limited announced that it is Sagicor Jamaica is currently had on record six confirmed committing US one million co-ordinating efforts with cases of COVID-19. Earlier dollars (US$1M) to aid in the other private sector organisa- in the week, Government fight against COVID-19 in the tions to finance the purchase revealed the first two cases, Caribbean. of medical equipment, as well that of a 48-year-old visitor The Caribbean’s leading in- as online educational tools for who arrived in Barbados on surance provider will use the primary school students who March 13 from the United US$1 million to support con- are out of school during this States (US) and a 39-year-old tainment and response efforts time. Barbadian female who re- and has already started dia- Group President and CEO cently returned to the country logue with governments and of Sagicor Financial Company from the US. Then later in the health ministries in Barbados, Limited, Dodridge Miller, de- week came additional reports Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, scribed the move as consistent that there were four addi- and the Director General of with Sagicor’s history of sup- tional cases – the spouse of the the OECS. The focus will be port for the communities visiting female who was one placed on enhancing early de- in which we operate. Miller of the first two people to be tection and providing equip- stated, “We all need to support tested and found positive; a ment for the immediate care of initiatives that will minimise 60-year-old Barbadian who ar- those already infected. risk and reduce the spread of rived over the weekend from In Barbados, the company this virus. It is not only the re- New York and who developed is in discussions with author- sponsibility of governments to symptoms soon after arriving ities regarding a plan to pur- respond to this challenge, but in Barbados; and a male in his chase “walk-through” scan- also that of corporate citizens. 20s and a female in her 60s, ners to be placed at the is- We hope that this assistance both of whom recently re- land’s ports of entry, as well can help to bolster the re- turned to the island from the as specific high-traffic facili- sponse of our governments as United States. ties. Plans are already at an they seek to fight on our re- Meanwhile, Barbadians are advanced stage for the distri- gion’s behalf and play our part being encouraged to follow all bution of handheld scanners in the global response.” the necessary precautions and other medical supplies Each market will liaise di- given by the Ministry of across the Eastern Caribbean, rectly with governments and Health and Wellness and rep- while in Trinidad & Tobago, other agencies to determine utable public health institu- the team is working with the what support is needed and tions, to avoid either catching government to provide sup- will handle distribution at Dodridge Miller, President and CEO of Sagicor Financial or spreading COVID-19. port including the supply of the local level. Company Limited. (RSM) 4• Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 5 Reduced visiting hours Extended AS the Queen Elizabeth are 12 noon to 1 pm and With these new visiting like symptoms, such as Hospital (QEH) seeks to 5 pm to 6 pm daily. Visits hours, patients will be al- fever, a cough, sneezing, insulate the institution to the hospital’s Intensive lowed a maximum of two runny nose and/or short- from the threat of Care Units – Medical visitors during each hour. ness of breath, are strongly opening COVID-19, it intro- Intensive Care Unit, This rule will be strictly discouraged from visiting duced reduced visiting Surgical Intensive Care enforced. family members admitted hours for members of Unit, Paediatric Intensive Although visiting hours to the QEH. the public, effective Care Unit, and Neonatal have been reduced, per- Additionally, visitors to Wednesday, March 18. Intensive Care Unit – will sons are encouraged to the hospital will be re- hours The new interim visit- be facilitated between 11 only visit relatives, if quired to submit to a tem- ing hours across all gen- and 11:30 am; 4 and 4:30 absolutely necessary. perature check and sign in eral and surgical wards pm; and 5:30 and 6 pm. Persons with cold or flu- at the main entrance. for QEH Criminal charges for St. Lucy resident Pharmacy THE public is asked to at minimum a two-month POLICE arrested and for- 2020 Alexander James He appeared at the $10 000 and was note that effective supply of all medications mally charged Alexander Ralph Lorde was charged District ‘D’ Magistrates’ restricted from online Wednesday,March 18, the prescribed. As such, this James Ralph Lorde, 20 relative to a social media Court yesterday, Friday, activities involving group opening hours of the limited dispensation years, of Lot 4 Colleton post which contained March 20, 2020 before chats on national Queen Elizabeth Hospital service is simply a precau- Gardens, St. Lucy, for the indecent and obscene Chief Magistrate Weekes. issues. Pharmacy have been tionary measure to ensure offence of: Malicious language under the He pleaded not guilty to The case was adjourned extended to facilitate the patient care is not Communication. Computer Misuse the offence and was until Wednesday,June 10, dispensation of a compromised. On Thursday March 19, act. granted bail in the sum of 2020. two-month supply of Persons visiting the medication to out- pharmacy are asked to ob- patients. serve a three feet, or one- The pharmacy will now metre space between be opened from 8:30 am to themselves and others, 8 pm on weekdays; and and after submission of Spend time with children who are away from school 8:30 am to 5 pm on the prescription script to weekends. return to their seat PARENTS and to spend time with your Browne commented. she suggested. It is advised that per- until their name is guardians are being en- children. This time would She urged, “Spend “I now appeal to sons on medication have called. couraged to spend some normally be six hours in time with your children, neighbours to open their time with their children school where they spend teach them something; go WiFi. There are some who are away from school time with their teachers in the garden, that is children that will need to BARBADOS early, due to the COVID- and their friends. an agricultural lesson. so when school [virtually] 19 pandemic which has They will not have that Exercise, skip with starts back. So open your NO. 1464/2018 reached our shores. now. They will have no- them, run around the WiFi, share it with your Chairman of body in the house unless yard with them. These neighbours. The cost IN THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE Committees and St. they have brothers and are the things that we won’t be any more. Philip North Member of sisters to play with, to need to see come back I encourage people THE HIGH COURT Parliament, Dr. Sonia talk to. So spend time urgently.” todo that,” Browne Browne suggested the with your children. Dr. Browne is also ask- asserted. above, as the Estimates This is one of the times ing neighbours in the She also suggested that BETWEEN: KIRK SMITH CLAIMANT debate continued yester- where the silver lining various communities, to parents do what they can day afternoon. of it would be to be aid children where they to follow up on various AND O’NEAL RILEY FIRST DEFENDANT “I want to encourage encourage families to can. They can start by concepts, which they can parents during this time, be families again,” Dr. opening their WiFi and also teach their children AND CLEAVLEN HARPER SECOND DEFENDANT sharing it with children in the meantime, so who need to do virtual they can keep up classes or work online, with their classes. (RSM) To: O’NEAL RILEY formerly of 1ST Avenue, Godding Road, Station Road, St. Michael Reduction of and CLEAVLEN HARPER formerly of Scott’s Gap, Britton’s Hill, St. Michael out-patient clinics, TAKE NOTICE THAT

1. A Claim Form and Statement of Claim have been issued against cancellation of you on the 1st day of November 2018, in the High Court of Justice FULL TIME POSITIONS FROM SEPTEMBER 2020 of Barbados, bearing suit no. 1464 of 2018, by Kirk Smith of Millenium Heights, St. Michael. The Claimant claims against you . FOOD, NUTRITION & HEALTH elective surgeries . CHEMISTRY & BIOLOGY damages arising out of an accident on 5th November 2012 along IN response to the critical care beds, should Applewaithes Main Road, St. George resulting from your negligent Government of Barbados’ the need arise. Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons, for driving of motor car registration number MA-262. escalation to Stage One of Additionally, effective the above Full Time teachers in the Secondary School. the COVID-19 National Wednesday, March 18, all 2. You must respond to the claim otherwise judgment may be entered Response Plan, the public out-patient clinics were Applications with full Curriculum Vitae, copies of certificates, against you. is asked to note that effec- reduced. Patients consid- names of two (2) referees and two recent testimonials should tive Wednesday,March 18, ered to be urgent and be sent to [email protected] 3. A copy of the Claim Form and Statement of Claim may be obtained all elective surgical emergent are being con- from the Supreme Court Registry at Whitepark Road, St. Michael. procedures will be post- tacted by the Medical no later than Friday 27th March 2020 poned. Records Department and 4. Claim bearing suit no. 1629 of 2014 is discontinued against Only urgent and emer- given specific appoint- Only teachers with experience need apply. Cleavlen Harper. gent procedures will be ment dates and times to conducted. This decision reduce the number of pa- The school will not be responsible for work permits Dated this 21st day of March 2020 is a temporary measure to tients presenting to the Only suitable applicants will be acknowledged. ensure the availability of out-patients’ clinics. Renae A. Witter, Attorney-at-Law for the Claimant 6 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Social distancing Anglican Church of Barbados advice

Why it Works implements temporary measures COVID-19 or novel Coronavirus has changed our language. The use of the word, “viral” has a heavier meaning to minimise COVID-19 transmission and we are learning about behaviours IN our government’s effort to min- Church is also calling all to observe this personal prayer. which go against our way of interacting imise the rate of transmission of Sunday as a Special Day of Prayer for our 6. Pastoral care and regular office with one another. So what is social COVID-19, we have been requested nation and world. The Diocese will be hour(s) for clergy and staff will continue, distancing? to limit our social interaction and to working to establish social media while taking all the necessary With the announcement of confirmed ensure that any gathering of per- platforms for Christian Education precautions of good hygiene and social cases of COVID-19, the reactions by sons should not exceed 100 persons. (Sunday School) and Bible Study distancing. Barbadians are no different from those In response to this mandate, and recog- Courses. 7. Pastoral support, counsel overseas. It is about survival of the nising the severity of the situation as we 2. Weddings and funerals will be and prayers for those exhibiting fittest. Humans as other creatures are measure our faith with reason, the limited to the immediate family. influenza-type symptoms will be offered social by nature but in times of crisis Anglican Church recognises that it 3. Services of Baptism and Con- via telephone or social media. and calamity, they can become cannot be “business as usual” and that firmation will be conducted under 8. Clergy will endeavour to maintain different. there is therefore a need to change its extreme circumstances and done contact with members of the Sadly, our entire existence depends modus operandi. To this end, the privately. congregation so far as possible; with the on relationships; talking and physical following temporary measures will be 4. In-person meetings of organisations, assistance of members of the Parochial interactions, our families, our friends, put in place: committees and other church ministries Church Council, Pastoral Ministers and our co-workers, for businesses, their 1. Regular Church Services (of Matins, will be held only when absolutely Organizational Leaders. livelihood, their wealth and power rely Holy Eucharist and Evensong) will be necessary.When conducted, these meet- Members will be encouraged to develop on relationships. suspended, effective from this coming ings are to be brief and members should prayer partners, if not already With leaders trying to mitigate the Sunday, March 22, 2020 until April 4, continue to exercise the protocols of good established, in order to have an added effects of COVID-19 although not as 2020 in the first instance. hygiene and social distancing in relation support system during this season deadly as bubonic plague, it is conta- The Diocese will however be seeking to to seating and interaction.Alternatively, when our corporate gatherings are gious and it can kill the most vulnera- put in place, from this Sunday, the participants are to consider the use of suspended. ble not our children, but the older broadcasting and/or streaming of a time social media platforms. Our Church will continue to pray for generation and even some who play of worship, and will be encouraging all 5. Churches will be opened, as often as our nation and our world, and encourage the most critical roles in our society, Anglicans and others to tune in where practical, with the necessary security in all to be of good courage, knowing that our policy makers and health care possible. Information of this will be place, in the event that individuals may our God will be at our side to see us workers. shared as soon as it is finalised. The desire to enter and spend time in through this pandemic. Social distancing has been proposed as a way of slowing the transmission and protecting those who are most vulnerable. Today, there have been Barbados Christian Council’s Response to Covid-19 travel restrictions, the banning of large THE Covid-19 pandemic has brought a impart biblical wisdom that can help to public gatherings, closure of places change to life as we know it worldwide encourage hope, healing and stabilise where with disruption in the way we do busi- people’s emotions. people would congregate including ness, communicate, socialise and interact 4. Where possible and practical, churches, schools, libraries, bars and with each other. It has brought a micro- facilitate gatherings to sufficiently man- restaurants. There have been employ- scopic look at life, touching every aspect ageable and secure sizes. ers who asked their staff to work from of human affairs with no respect to age, 5. Identify the current ministries and home and this is only possible due to gender, status or nation if only, but for activities the church is engaged that reliable telecommunications services. a short time. could be used to help address the COVID- We see across the developed world, can- 19 impact. Benefits and disadvantages cellations of public and private activities, 6. Regularly monitor coronavirus Social distancing eliminates the stress upon the health services, risk and impact on the church and well-known gestures of affection, decline in businesses profitability, fur- community. acknowledgement and agreement. ther marginalisation of the poorer 7. Care for peoples’ spiritual, emotional, These include handshaking, hugging classes, the elderly more vulnerable to physical, physiological, social, and safety and kissing and alternatively encour- its attacks and churches having to rede- needs (e.g. using the counsellors and phy- age head nods, placing the hand on the fine worship to facilitate its members. cologists within the church, and call on heart, shrugging your shoulders, elbow It is now beyond any doubt that this government for help, to deal with social knocking and the waving of the hand. virus is causing the world to rethink, and psychological issues as a result of With social distancing, the more reflect, refocus, repurpose and it’s our the virus impact). people who are not infected will result hope that it will repent of its disobedience 8. Ensure the fair distribution of in a slow down of transmission. It also to God and the injustices meted out on resources so that the marginalised and allows those who are ill to recover in each other. vulnerable groups don’t fall through the self-isolation or quarantine which can Barbados has in recent days recorded cracks amidst the possible public health reduce coronavirus cases. Other deadly cases of Covid-19, moving the nation from crisis that can occur from Covid19 viruses like SARS (severe acute a stage 0 to stage 1 in the fight against impact. respiratory syndrome Coronavirus) the virus. With the realisation of these 9.Where necessary as well as practical and MERS (Middle East respiratory cases on the island, there are imposed re- in terms of technological services and syndrome coronavirus) although from strictions with public gatherings limited Funerals and weddings may need to be equipment, allow persons to worship via the same virus family are not like to one hundred, and social distancing of scaled back drastically. social media platforms. COVID-19. one metre from those affected with the 10. We must commit to prayer. We are The disadvantages of social distanc- virus. This has brought to bear some Christian Council is requesting its vulnerable to this disease, therefore, as ing include loneliness, reduced produc- measure of concern for the church as they member churches to do the following: we serve together, let us reach out to tivity, and the loss of other benefits are asked to revisit the existing practice 1. We should not allow the impact of those around us and be the heart of Jesus associated with human interaction. No of communion, affectionate greetings, the Covid19 to diminish the importance of for our brothers and sisters, via phone one will know the long term effects on restriction of their gathering and social the Easter celebrations, but balance our calls, text messages or any other creative society after the pandemic is over or distancing techniques. faith with wisdom and find creative ways ways we may think of. how it will affect the mentality of the The church remains committed to fol- to celebrate Easter. 11.We must not withhold our service or children who are experiencing it. They lowing as far as is practically possible, to 2. Pivot the church’s’ ongoing ministry care to others, but use every precaution- may have the trauma from losing a comply with the health advisories, but efforts in new ways that address the ary measure at our disposal to protect loved one, not being able to play and will seek to balance its faith with wisdom needs created by COVID-19. (e.g. begin ourselves while in service to others. interact with friends and school mates in fulfilling its divine responsibility. The with what your church is already doing 12. Follow the recommendations of like before and experience the restrictions imposed has far reaching to serve others; the communion table). the Chief Medical Officer as well as reduction of social events and consequences for the church as the man- 3. Foster hope by our continue prayer the Minister for health and wellness in interaction. ner of funerals and weddings may need for the nation, the sharing of Scripture the Ministry of Health for Barbados. to be scaled back drastically. The readings and messages which will God abundantly bless you. The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 7

BARBADOS WATER AUTHORITY ACT, CAP. 274A Non-Commercial Vehicle Wash NOTICE GIVEN UNDER SECTION 14 OF THE BARBADOS WATER AUTHORITY (WATER SERVICES) Vehicles other than vehicles washed at a commercial vehicle REGULATIONS, 1982 wash, a business that services, details or repairs vehicles or a vehicle dealership are permitted to be washed using a bucket. The Barbados Water Authority, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 14(1) of the Barbados Water Authority Windows, Buildings etc. (Water Services) Regulations, 1982 hereby prohibits the use of potable water for: . Building gutters are permitted to be cleaned at any time by any means. a) irrigation or watering of gardens, lawns and grounds by hose or sprinkler systems; . Windows and other external parts of buildings are permitted to be washed at any time by using a bucket and b) filling or supplying tanks, ponds, baths or swimming mop/brush, squeegee or a high-pressure low-volume pools other than: cleaner.

i. dipping tanks for cattle, . Except in the circumstances mentioned by this paragraph ii. domestic baths not exceeding 120 litres (32 gals) water from Barbados Water Authority's supply shall not in capacity, and be used to wash building exteriors unless cleaning is iii. elevated reserve tanks, not exceeding 800 litres necessary as a result of an accident, fire, health hazard or (211 gals) in capacity and connected to household other emergency. In such circumstances the most water- sewerage or water supply systems; efficient method available should be adopted.

c) washing roadways, pavements, paths, garages, outrooms Roadways, Dust Suppression or vehicles by hose; Wherever practicable non-potable water should be used to wash d) washing of windows and building exteriors. down roadways, driveways, construction materials.

The general public is advised that the aforesaid prohibition will In greenfield sites the use of water from the Barbados Water recommence on Friday, March 6, 2020 and end on Friday, July Authority's supply that is legally obtained, is permitted to be used 31, 2020. While this prohibition is in effect, no person shall use for dust or pollutant suppression or earth compaction only by or cause or permit to be used, for any prohibited purpose, any means of a hose fitted with an automatic flow cut-off device or a water supplied by or obtained from the pipes of the Barbados vehicle fitted with sprinklers. Water Authority except in accordance with the conditions hereinafter set out. Prohibition Guidelines: To view additional conditions, please visit the Authority’s Facebook page The general public is further advised that it is an offence for any @bwa.bb or its website www.barbadoswaterauthority.com person to contravene this prohibition and such person will be liable on summary conviction to a fine of $500 and in default of payment to imprisonment for one (1) month.

The above prohibition is subject to the following conditions:

Agriculture ……………………………………………….. Keithroy Halliday Animal farmers are permitted to use handheld hoses or pressure General Manager washers (rated at less than 3 gallons per minute) with an Barbados Water Authority automatic flow cut off device to wash the surroundings where the animals are kept. Dated this 6th day of March 2020

8 • Saturday March 21, 2020 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 The United Kingdom is closed: Childhood Johnson shutters pubs, restaurants LONDON – Prime Johnson said he understood not to open tomorrow,” Minister Boris Johnson just how wrenching it was to Johnson told reporters in effectively closed down Downing Street. obesity fight the United Kingdom take away the ancient rights of “Though to be clear, yesterday,ordering pubs, they can continue to pro- restaurants, theatres, the British people to go to the vide takeout services. cinemas and gyms to pub but that it was absolutely “Some people may continues shut their doors in a bid of course be tempted to ACCORDING to the Pan American Health to slow down the acceler- essential to slow the spread of go out tonight, and I Organisation (PAHO), the number of overweight ating spread of the coron- the coronavirus. say to those people, and obese children in the region has more than avirus. ‘please don’t,’” Johnson doubled over the last decade, due primarily to As the coronavirus out- the ancient, inalienable it is raging across said. unhealthy diets and inadequate exercise. break sweeps across the right of free-born people London, partly as some The government also A study done in four Caribbean countries has world, governments, of the United Kingdom to people are not obeying announced that a mili- found that 30 per cent of children ages 11 through companies and investors go to the pub, and I can government advice to iso- tary veterans’ parade 13 are overweight or obese. Now we all know that are grappling with the understand how people late. in London to mark the consequences of overweight and obesity in chil- biggest public health feel about that,” Johnson At total of 177 people the 75th anniversary of dren are serious, including breathing difficulties, crisis since the 1918 said. with the virus have the end of World War hypertension, early signs of cardiovascular influenza pandemic, pan- “It’s a huge wrench.” died so far across the Two in Europe (VE Day) disease, insulin resistance and psychological icked populations and “It’s a huge wrench to country. in May would be can- effects. imploding financial mar- do that, everybody under- celled. The US Centres for Disease Control and kets. stands that,” he said. Indefinite closures New plans to mark the Prevention however suggests that childhood obe- Johnson said he under- “It’s heartbreaking to Johnson said pubs, occasion would be un- sity is a complex health issue, with the main stood just how wrenching think of the businesses restaurants, theatres, veiled shortly. causes of excess weight in youth being similar to it was to take away the that will face difficulties nigthtclubs, cinemas Johnson’s finance min- those in adults, including individual causes such ancient rights of the as a result of the meas- and gyms and leisure ister Rishi Sunak also as behaviour and genetics. The CDC points out British people to go to the ures this country has had centres were being asked launched a gigantic that behaviours can include dietary patterns, pub, but that it was ab- to take.” to close on Friday night stimulus package to physical activity, inactivity, medication use, and solutely essential to slow The United Kingdom so and to stay shut indefi- stabilise Britain’s virus- other exposures.Additional contributing factors in the spread of the coron- far has 3 983 confirmed nitely. hit economy yesterday, society include the food and physical activity avirus. cases of coronavirus, after “We are telling cafes, including the government environment, education and skills, and food “I do accept that what 66 976 people were bars and restaurants to paying the wages of marketing and promotion. we’re doing is extraordi- tested, though the gov- close tonight as soon as workers up and down the Here in Barbados, projects have been taken to nary: we’re taking away ernment’s scientists say they reasonably can and country. the schools to promote healthy eating and healthy living in general. The aim has been to make key interventions while the children are still young, to see them change their dietary habits and to get them on the move, so that they do not come down Trump says respects China, but with chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) as they advance into adulthood. However, as we walk around Barbados, we will see some children who definitely fall into the over- unfortunate virus got out of control weight and obese categories and we have to keep WASHINGTON – US Trump ratcheted up his rhetoric jobs.” wondering, is physical activity no longer cherished President Donald Trump Trump ratcheted up by today’s youngsters? It seems that some said yesterday he greatly against China over the coronavirus his rhetoric against young children will opt to browse the Internet on respects China and this week, saying Beijing China over the coron- a computer or tablet or play video games on Chinese President Xi avirus this week, saying evenings and weekends, rather than make a defin- Jinping, but it was unfor- should have acted sooner to warn Beijing should have itive decision to play outdoors or get involved in tunate the coronavirus the world and dismissing criticism acted sooner to warn the some active sport, three or four times in the week. began there and got out world and dismissing Now that children are out of school early, we can of control. that his labelling it the ‘Chinese criticism that his la- only hope that adults insist that they get some US Secretary of State virus’ was racist. belling it the “Chinese outdoor activity,even if that activity is confined to Mike Pompeo, referring virus” was racist. the front or backyard of the home, rather than stay to the “Chinese virus” “Some people are from the Chinese The president and his inside glued to a screen all day, watching non- – a term Trump has upset, I know. I know Communist Party to the administration have an- productive shows. used repeatedly, greatly President Xi. He loves technical people who grily rejected attempts What we know as well too, is that dietary habits angering Beijing – told China. He respects the we wanted to get into by Chinese officials to are factoring into the equation in a big way, as a the same briefing of United States. And I China immediately to blame the virus on the number of children opt for greasy, fatty foods be- the US coronavirus have to say I respect assist in this, every US military, but last fore they select a dish of ground provisions, and task force that Beijing’s China greatly and I re- moment of delay con- week, Trump praised many of them are opposed to eating vegetables on delay in sharing informa- spect President Xi.” nected to being able China’s data sharing their own or in salads. Numerous children are still tion about the virus Pompeo, a persistent to identify this risk, about the disease. consuming salty and sugary snacks as well as had created risks to peo- critic of China, said it correct the risk factors, The dispute over the sodas, and with inactivity present, obesity is bound ple worldwide. was not a matter of ap- creates risks to people all coronavirus is just the to step in. Trump said he has a portioning blame, but around the world,” he latest irritant in rela- On the plus side, we can be glad that officials very good relationship the Chinese government said. tions between the have seen the need to step in to make key inter- with Xi and considered was the first to know “This is why it’s not world two largest ventions before we are further burdened as a na- him a friend, while about the risk the virus about blaming someone economies, which are tion with a further rise in CNCDs.We must get the adding: “It’s unfortunate presented and was slow for this, this is about already strained over message out there that children and adolescents that this got out of to share vital informa- moving forward to issues ranging from who are obese are likely to be obese as adults, and control. It came from tion. make sure that we con- trade and intellectual are therefore more at risk for adult health prob- China, it got out of con- “When you see a delay tinue to have the infor- property rights to press lems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, trol. in information flowing mation we need to do our freedom. several types of cancer and osteoarthritis down the road. Healthy lifestyle habits can lower the Executive Editor: Allison Downes Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan risk of becoming obese and developing related Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke diseases. E-mail Address: [email protected] Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 9 China’s experience effective in mitigating economic impact of COVID-19: IMF WASHINGTON – China’s measures to provide support to experience shows the right the most vulnerable groups and policies make a difference in effectively mitigate the severe fighting the disease and impact on the economy. mitigating its impact and the The IMF said Chinese country’s gradual return to policymakers have targeted production presents vulnerable households and “reassuring signs of looked for new ways to reach economic normalization in smaller firms – for example, by Work resumes in a car factory in Wuhan, Hubei province. China,” according to an waiving social security fees and analysis released yesterday utility bills, and channeling renminbi adjust to external because China’s large state challenges to China’s economic by the International credit through fintech firms. pressures. banks continued to lend recovery. Monetary Fund (IMF) on the The Chinese authorities also Remedies taken by financial generously to them. “Therefore, Chinese economic impact of the quickly arranged subsidized departments included guiding “There are reassuring signs of policymakers will have to be coronavirus. credit to support scaling up the banks to work with borrowers economic normalization in China ready to support growth and The report, titled “Blunting the production of health equipment affected by the outbreak; – most larger firms have financial stability if needed,” the Impact and Hard Choices: Early and other critical activities incentivizing banks to lend to reported reopening their doors IMF added. Lessons from China,” notes that involved in the outbreak smaller firms via special funding and many local employees are The analysis was authored by the impact of the coronavirus is response. from China’s central bank; and back at their jobs,” said the IMF’s China mission chief Helge having a profound and serious To safeguard financial providing targeted cuts to article. Berger, deputy director of the impact on the global economy, stability, Chinese authorities reserve requirements for banks. The IMF also warned that IMF’s Asia and Pacific and that the cost of containing stepped in early to backstop Larger firms, including state- continued volatility in financial Department Kenneth Kang, and the virus is a slowdown in interbank markets and provide owned enterprises, enjoyed markets, as the disease was the director of the IMF’s Asia and economic activity. China acted financial support to firms under relatively stable credit access spreading globally, would Pacific Department Chang Yong quickly to take a series of pressure, while letting the throughout – in large part dampen demand and pose Rhee. China has more monetary leeway than global peers amid coronavirus pandemic: market watchers CHINA’S central bank quotations were unchanged yesterday surprised the market from the previous fixings with its decision to keep its doesn’t suggest China’s central benchmark lending rate steady bank is tightening its monetary in March, despite a global race policy, Wu noted, citing a to cut rates amid the targeted reserve requirement coronavirus pandemic. cut last week that pumped 550 China’s effective virus billion yuan ($77.6 billion) into containment allows the country the virus-hit economy, one more leverage when it comes to among a mix of financing the deployment of conventional policies to keep the interest rate monetary ammunition, market at a low level. watchers said, noting that the The nation continues to nation has more monetary maintain reasonable and ample leeway than its global peers to liquidity, and its benchmark cushion its economy from the rates and reserve requirement coronavirus fallout. ratios are both higher than The People’s Bank of China, those in developed economies, the country’s central bank, set meaning China has more the one-year loan prime rate monetary leeway than (LPR) at 4.05 percent, level with developed nations mired in the previous monthly fixing. liquidity traps and zero or even The five-year LPR was also negative interest rates, the unchanged at 4.75 percent. The building of the People’s Bank of China in Beijing. analyst remarked, noting that The LPR, based on a weighted whether or not China moves to average of lending rates from The Bank of England, the that has disrupted economic reached a turning point in its cut rates is contingent upon its 18 banks, is announced on the UK’s central bank, announced activity in many countries. coronavirus battle, while there first-quarter economic 20th day of every month. on Thursday that it would slash China has been ahead of its are still no signs of peaking – performance. The steady LPR rates came its main interest rate to an all- global peers in terms of its not to mention a turning point China’s central bank still has after the central bank kept the time low of 0.1 percent. counter-cyclical monetary and – in developed countries,” she relatively wide scope to make interest rate of its medium-term The US Federal Reserve fiscal policies, said Wu Jinduo, told the Global Times yesterday, broad and targeted reserve lending facility (MLF) loans made an emergency rate cut on head of fixed income at the speaking of China’s virus requirement cuts, Shanghai unchanged on Monday, falling Sunday that lowered its funds research institute of Great Wall containment basis for monetary Securities News reported short of market expectations of rate to near zero. The Fed also Securities. fine-tuning that sees the yesterday, citing Ma Jun, an further monetary easing amid a launched a $700 billion “China has already country stand apart from the external advisor to central global round of interest rate quantitative easing program, experienced the virus spread, rest of world. bank monetary policy cuts. citing the coronavirus outbreak the peak of the disease, and has That the latest MLF and LPR committee. 10 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate Jamaica able to limit negative effects on tourism, says Moody’s MOODY’S credit rating buffers to cope with a shock in decade, with tourist arrivals agency this week said the tourism industry,limiting the (including cruise passengers) Jamaica’s large primary immediate credit negative effect,” increasing to 4.2 million in 2019 surplus and adequate the agency added. from 2.8 million in 2010, boosted international reserves Noting that Jamaica has by investment in facilities and provide the Government issued travel restrictions on the domestic infrastructures such as with ample buffers to limit United Kingdom, China, Italy, highways. the immediate credit- South Korea, Singapore, France, “The increased arrivals negative effect that travel Spain, Germany, and Iran supported growth in various restrictions will have on the Moody’s said the travel ban will sectors, such as hotels and tourism industry because of exacerbate the slowdown in restaurants, retail trade and the novel coronavirus tourism and the economy. accommodation services, with disease (COVID-19) However, the agency said, spillovers to other sectors outbreak. compared with other Caribbean including construction. The The agency said, compared with other Caribbean islands, “While we expect growth to islands, Jamaica’s vulnerability unprecedented combination of Jamaica’s vulnerability to tourism is moderate. slow from declining tourist to tourism is moderate. the coronavirus pandemic, arrivals, the effect on Jamaica’s Moody’s pointed to World deteriorating global economic external accounts will be current-account deficit and the external accounts will be Travel and Tourism Council data outlook, falling oil prices, and partially offset by the high accumulation of international partially offset by the high showing that travel and tourism asset price declines are creating import content of tourism reserves,” Moody’s said. import content of tourism either directly or indirectly a severe and extensive credit earnings, which will reduce the “Additionally, the Government’s earnings, which will reduce the accounted for 34 per cent of shock across many sectors, country’s import bill,” Moody’s timely measures amid the country’s import bill. Moreover, Jamaica’s 2018 gross domestic regions and markets,” Moody’s said. “Moreover, lower oil prices coronavirus outbreak reflect its lower oil prices will also have a product (GDP), 31 per cent of said. will also have a positive effect on stronger institutional capacity to positive effect on Jamaica’s employment and almost 60 per The agency also pointed out Jamaica’s current account.” cope with external shocks. The current account,” Moody’s said in cent of total exports. that Jamaica is particularly The credit rating agency noted Government announced an issuer comment. The credit agency also noted vulnerable to a slowdown in that the reforms monitored by emergency funding amounting “We believe that the country that the tourism sector has tourist arrivals from the United the International Monetary to $7 billion or 0.4 per cent of has sufficient fiscal and external grown steadily over the past States, which accounted for 66 Fund helped Jamaica reduce 2018 GDP to support the medical per cent of total arrivals in 2018, fiscal and external imbalances, staff and health facilities followed by Canada with 16 per which led to the agency’s (quarantine facilities have been cent of arrivals and the UK, December 2019 upgrade of in place since around mid- which accounted for nine per Jamaica’s rating to B2. February), and an $18 billion Guadeloupe reports cent. “Notably, the adoption of a stimulus package to be used in “While we expect growth to formal inflation target and the form of tax cuts to mitigate first coronavirus death; slow from declining tourist flexible exchange rate regime the coronavirus’ negative arrivals, the effect on Jamaica’s contributed to a narrower economic effects.” confirmed cases now 51 THE French island of Friday by the Agence Régionale Guadeloupe yesterday reported de Santé (ARS). GG declares 2 days of prayer and fasting its first death due to the much- The report shows that 51 ST JAMES, Jamaica – Governor in Montego Bay. of the two days for prayer and feared coronavirus (COVID-19) people have tested positive. General Sir Patrick Allen has The two days of prayer and fasting. with confirmed cases now A total of 11 patients are in declared two days of prayer and fasting, which has been For his part, Custos Pitkin in standing at 51. hospital with four in intensive fasting, beginning yesterday, in organised by the Jamaica reminding Jamaicans to The deceased is a 71-year-old care. response to the outbreak Umbrella Group of Churches practise proper hygiene, woman. On Thursday,the coronavirus of the novel coronavirus (JUGC), will commence at 6:00 appealed to all to be calm. The circumstance of her situation in Guadeloupe (COVID-19). pm and runs until 6:00 pm on He also commended the contamination and death is surpassed the epidemic level The declaration was read a Sunday, March 22. government for its handling of under investigation by the when 45 positive cases were short while ago by Custos of St Allen in his proclamation the pandemic. French health authorities. reported.The epidemic James, Bishop Conrad Pitkin, appealed to all people of faith Up to yesterday the country New details on the situation threshold is 40 positive cases at a press conference held at the across the island and the recorded 16 confirmed cases and on the island were released on per 100,000 people. Faith Temple Assembly Church diaspora to observe any of, or all one death due to COVID-19. ECCB grant funding for members to assist with Covid-19 expenditure • Grenada to receive On the recommendation of the other critical equipment to detect, gesture by the bank.” Despite this projection, at EC$500,000 to assist against ECCB Board of Directors, the contain and manage Covid- According to the communiqué present, the foreign reserves of Covid-19 Monetary Council of the Eastern 19. The remainder will be utilised issued after a Special Meeting of the currency union are strong • World Health Caribbean Central Bank has to procure equipment and the OECS Authority and the with a current backing of 99.7%. Organisation declared Covid-19 approved total grant funding of supplies such as ventilators and Monetary Council of the ECCU “In light of recent market a global pandemic on 11 March EC$4 million. drugs through the Organisation which was held virtually on 15 developments, income on the 2020 A news release from the ECCB of Eastern Caribbean States March 2020 under the best-case reserves will rise in the short • Equipment, supplies and said that the institution is fully Pharmaceutical Procurement scenario (containment of Covid by term. However, income will be drugs procured through OECS cognisant of the potential Service (OECS PPS), a bulk the end of June 2020), real GDP reduced in the upcoming months Pharmaceutical Procurement economic, financial and social procurement mechanism.” growth for the ECCU for 2020 will based on lower interest rates by Service impact of Covid-19 on member Chairman of the Monetary slow to 2.1%. This will be down the Federal Reserve. For 2020, the GRENADA, like other members countries. On 11 March 2020, the Council, Dr The Right from an initial estimate of 3.3%. backing ratio is projected between of the Eastern Caribbean World Health Organisation Honourable Keith Mitchell, Prime Under a moderate case scenario 97%–99% this year. Currency Union (ECCU), will be (WHO) declared Covid-19 a global Minister and Minister of Finance (containment by end of summer), With regards to fiscal impact, it receiving EC$500,000 from the pandemic. for Grenada, said, “We are facing ECCU real GDP growth is expected that there will be an Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Outlining the purpose of the an unprecedented situation with projected to decelerate to 1.5%; increase in the ECCU fiscal deficit (ECCB) to assist in the fight funding, the release said, “Half of the Covid-19 pandemic. Our and in the worst-case scenario by about 4% of GDP due to lower against the novel coronavirus the grant was disbursed on 13 countries are very appreciative of (global recession), a contraction of growth, lower revenues, and officially named Covid-19. March to purchase testing and this thoughtful and practical 1.9% is projected. higher expenditure for Covid-19.

The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 11

Trinidad announces series of measures Haiti declares to help ease impact of coronavirus emergency over PORT OF SPAIN,Trinidad point in time”. – Trinidad and Tobago Both Imbert and Prime Wednesday announced a Minister Rowley coronavirus series of measures it hopes emphasised that the will help reduce the measures were also aimed imposes curfew, shuts borders anticipated economic at ensuring people are not PORT-AU-PRINCE – and had suspended flights impact of the coronavirus placed on the breadline as Haiti’s government on from Europe, Latin on the oil-rich twin island the country deals with the Thursday declared a America and Canada and Republic. fall-out from the COVID- state of emergency over imposed major restrictions Prime Minister Dr Keith 19. the coronavirus on the border with the Rowley told a news “They can’t force them outbreak, closing the neighboring Dominican conference that the policies but they said they will use borders of the Americas’ Republic earlier this week are conditioned on a two- whatever persuasive poorest nation and in a bid to prevent the month period in the first ability they have to get all imposing a curfew after disease’s entry. instance and hoped other members of the Chamber authorities detected the The country struggles to forecasts by experts of the of Commerce and the first two cases of deal with serious outbreaks coronavirus being around Trinidad and Tobago infection. of disease because of a lack for at least 18 months “is Manufacturing Association President Jovenel Moise of sanitation infrastructure not what we are dealing to keep their members in told a news conference that and inadequate healthcare with”. jobs. all the Caribbean country’s services. One of the key He told reporters at the “But of course there must ports, airports and borders recommendations for end of a special Cabinet be a quid pro quo. The would be closed to people staving off coronavirus is to meeting “we are aiming to Government owes all of from midnight on wash hands frequently have a system where there these people a lot of money. Thursday, though they with soap and water, but is high liquidity and low We owe them VAT refunds, would remain open for most Haitians do not have interest rates immediately income tax refunds and goods traffic. running water. and the conversation overdue payables for Schools, universities, More than half the between the Governor of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley janitorial services, places of worship and population lives under the the central bank and the construction works and so industrial parks would be poverty line of US$2.41 per minister of finance, has people will not be able to because of it.” on. So what the closed, and a curfew would day,according to the World resulted in a reduction in meet those commitments Imbert said that the Government is doing is be in force from 8 p.m. to 5 Bank, and the country is the reserve requirement at because of their inability to banks have also agreed to accelerating the payment a.m. as of Friday,he added. only just recovering from a the central bank from 17 to pay”. reduce interest rates by 10 of arrears and outstanding Haiti was one of the last nine-year cholera outbreak 14 per cent and a reduction He said the authorities percentage points on credit payables to the business Caribbean nations to that the United Nations in the Repo rate…from five in their deliberations have cards. community,” Imbert said. remain coronavirus-free said killed nearly 10,000. per cent to 3.5 per cent. been able to get the He said regarding “What that has done is commercial banks to agree foreign exchange to put TT$2.6 billion (One to a moratoria for one availability, the current TT dollar=US$0.16 cents) month in the first instance system seems to be from the central bank in so that mortgages and functioning well where the community. So all instalments,loans could be manufacturers are people doing business with deferred “not forgiven but provided with foreign the commercial banks, deferred during this period exchange to boost exports. TT$2.6 billion is available of emergency”. “We are going to increase to them so that these Finance Minister Colm the allocation and look at businesses will not be in Imbert later told reporters the limits in that system danger of running out of that the banks will offer all because there is a cash.” their customers the threshold at this point in Rowley said that the opportunity to defer time to help mainly small commercial banks will payments for one month manufacturers and we will experience a reduction in under the “skip a payment” see what we can do to assist prime rate and they will programme. medium size “pass that down”. “As we see how this manufacturers and put Rowley said that his pandemic evolves it will be more money in the system.” Administration was also on a rolling monthly basis, He said the intention is moving to assist people but we starting with one also to provide “foreign with financial month and all penalties on exchange for essential commitments and likely to non-payment of items such as be affected “by what is instalments will be waived. pharmaceuticals, basic happening in the economy” So that when you skip the foods…because that is and as a result “some payment you don’t suffer critically needed at this

Calls mount for nat’l recount of votes from recent Guyana election GEORGETOWN, Guyana together to join the court the call from the US State – Calls are mounting from case on the recount that is Department for a credible various organisations for a scheduled for today before tabulation of the election national recount of ballots Justice Franklin Holder. results that reflects the from the March 2 election. The parties said they are will of the people of In a joint statement on working for a peace and Guyana. Friday, the main legal resolution of the The joint release was opposition People’s situation and they remain signed by the PPP Civic, Progressive Party and a committed to respecting Change Guyana, The group of the small parties the results emanating Citizenship Initiative,A said they welcome and from the recount and for New and United Guyana, support the other calls for democratic norms to The New Movement and a full national recount. prevail. the United Republican The parties have come They said they support Party.

12 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate Young people are not ‘invincible’, WHO warns YOUNG people are not immune from from Friday night coronavirus and must avoid socialis- • US: Borders with Mexico and ing and communicating it to older, Canada will be closed to most traffic; more vulnerable people, the World New York State ordered non-essential Health Organization (WHO) has businesses to shut, a day after a similar warned. move by California The choices made by the young can be • Spain: The government warned “the difference between life and death for that army patrols would detain people someone else”, WHO Director-General outside without good reason Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. • Bavaria: Germany’s second Over 11 000 patients have died from the most populous state became the first state Covid-19 respiratory illness worldwide. in impose a lockdown Nearly 250 000 patients have tested • France: Police said patrols at positive overall. Paris railway stations had been The WHO chief’s remarks follow reinforced to stop people going on trips for reports that young people in many coun- the weekend tries are being complacent about health • Indonesia: A state of emergency WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. warnings, because of the greater suscep- will be in force in the capital Jakarta from tibility to the virus among older patients. Monday – bars, cinemas and many other the central Chinese city of Wuhan, where was fatal for nearly 15 per cent of those The coronavirus outbreak was first businesses will be shut down. the outbreak originated, which reported who were over the age of 80. recorded in China in December.However Speaking at an online news conference no new cases on Thursday. The WHO is now recommending now the centre of the pandemic is Europe. from WHO headquarters in Geneva, He said this provided “hope for the rest “physical distance” instead of “social In Italy – where the virus has killed Tedros said, “Although older people are of the world that even the most severe sit- distancing” to help prevent transmission more people than in any other country – hardest hit, younger people are not uation can be turned around”. of the virus, Reuters reports. the death toll rose by 627 yesterday, spared.” Studies have show that people of all “We want people to remain connected,” reaching a total of 4 032, making it the He added, “I have a message for young ages can be infected by the virus – but it said Dr. Maria Kerkhove, a WHO deadliest day for one country since people: You are not invincible, this virus is especially dangerous for older people epidemiologist, told the news agency. the outbreak began. could put you in hospital for weeks or and those with underlying illnesses. “So find ways to do that, find ways even kill you. Even if you don’t get sick the The average age of those who died from through the Internet and through Many countries and regions took new choices you make about where you go Covid-19 in Italy was 78.5 years. different social media to remain con- measures yesterday, including: could be the difference between life and Fewer than one per cent of patients nected because your mental health going • UK: PM Boris Johnson said death for someone else.” under the age of 50 died in China, accord- through this (pandemic) is just as impor- cafes, pubs and restaurants will be closed Tedros welcomed developments from ing to the New York Times. However it tant as your physical health,” she said.

UK Govt will cover 80% of pay for people unable to work THE UK Government will pick up He said government grants would scheme will cover wages up to £2 500 eligible to employees. “most of” the wages of workers as the cover 80 per cent of the salary of staff a month. The chancellor’s announcement came coronavirus pandemic continues to who are kept on by their employer but Sunak said the Universal Credit after criticism that his £350 billion devastate many businesses , says are unable to work. standard allowance will be increased emergency support package for the Chancellor Rishi Sunak. The new coronavirus job retention by £1 000 a year for the next 12 months, economy earlier this week concentrated while the working tax credit basic on businesses but did little for their element will be boosted by the same staff. amount. Boris Johnson also ordered pubs, He also said he would defer the next gyms, cafes and restaurants across the quarter of VAT payments for businesses country to close. until the end of June, in a £30 billion It comes after the total number of injection into the economy. people who have died in the UK after The measures to strengthen the contracting COVID-19 rose to 177 after welfare system will benefit more than England saw 39 more deaths – the four million of the most vulnerable biggest rise in a day. households, he said. Sky News’ economics editor Ed “Employers will be able to contact Conway said the economy is “having a HMRC for a grant to cover most of the cardiac wages of people who are not working arrest”. but are furloughed and kept on payroll “We have never seen anything like rather than being laid off,” he said this. We never saw anything like this in during the prime minister’s press wartime Britain, previous recessions conference. and previous depressions. Sunak pledged £1 billion for renters “The government is stepping in and by boosting housing benefit and paying people’s salaries – that is Universal Credit, and added that the incredibly unusual.” welfare payments’ “generosity” would He added that the “radical” move be increased to allow the local housing shows how “desperately concerned” the allowance to cover at least 30 per cent government is about the state of of market rents. the economy. “Our planned economic response will Sunak said the next self-assessment be one of the most comprehensive in payments will be deferred to January the world,” he reassured. 2021 in a bid to further support “To all those at home, right now self-employed people. anxious about the days ahead, I say you He said the safety net will be further will not face this alone.” strengthened by extra help for renters However, he warned, “I cannot who may struggle with payments over promise you that no one will face the next few months. hardship in the weeks ahead.” “The actions I have taken today The new scheme means that self- represent an unprecedented economic employed workers will be able to access intervention to support the jobs Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the Universal Credit standard allowance will be in- Universal Credit payments in full, at a and incomes of the British people,” creased by £1,000 a year for the next 12 months. rate equivalent to statutory sick pay Sunak told the press conference. The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 13 4 members of New Jersey family die FOUR people in the same family have died from coronavirus in the US state of New Jersey, with three more relatives in hospital. Grace Fusco, 73, and six of her adult children fell ill after attending a large family gathering. Nearly 20 other relatives are now self-quarantining and waiting to find out if they have also been infected. The death toll across the US has continued to rise, as experts warn against any kind of social gathering.

‘Unbearable tragedy’ The four family members who died are Grace Fusco and her children Rita The Fusco family has been devastated by Covid-19. Fusco-Jackson, Carmine Fusco and Vincent Fusco. Grace Fusco died without knowing that CNN. cherish every second and minute you Rita Fusco-Jackson, a Catholic school two of her children had already She continued, “Why should athletes have together.” teacher, 55, died last Friday. She had no succumbed to the deadly respiratory and celebrities without symptoms be underlying health issues, according to illness sweeping the planet. given priority over a family that has been ‘Stay at home’ state health commissioner Judith On Thursday, Vincent Fusco died in decimated by this virus?” More than 200 people have now died Persichilli. the same hospital where his mother had “This is an unbearable tragedy for the from Covid-19 in the US, with over 15 000 New Jersey health officials said recently passed. family.” known infections and cases in all Fusco-Jackson was the second person to According to family member Paradiso A niece of Fusco-Jackson took to 50 states. die from Covid-19 in the state, Fodera, 19 family members who Facebook to grieve the sudden loss, NBC More and more US states and cities and the first fatality had also attended the same dinner are now reported. have begun lockdown procedures in an recently attended a Fusco family self-isolating, and have waited nearly “My mom is one of 11, last Thursday effort to prevent the rampant virus from gathering. a week to learn the results of their virus I went to sleep having 10 aunts and overwhelming hospitals. Carmine Fusco died on Wednesday, tests. uncles! Friday I woke up and found out Testing in the US has lagged behind followed hours later by his mother,Grace “Why don’t the family members who I only had 9. Just a few minutes ago other industrialised nations, leading to Fusco. are not hospitalised have the test results? I found out I only have 8,” she wrote. questions about the actual spread of the According to the New York Times, This is a public health crisis,” Fodera told “Please hold your love ones close and infection in North America.

Italy calls in military to enforce virus lockdown as 627 people die in 24 hrs SOLDIERS were being drafted in to help ground throughout Lombardy... it is still the situation in Lombardy, there’s a high those were Covid-19 cases, according to enforce the lockdown in Italy yesterday as too little, but it is positive,” Fontana said. level of contagion and we’re not even the civil protection agency. officials announced 627 new deaths, the “Unfortunately we are not seeing a counting the dead any more. Bergamo’s mayor on Thursday largest single-day toll anywhere in the change of trend in the numbers, which “Look at the news that’s coming out of announced plans to build a field hospital world since the coronavirus outbreak are rising.” Italy and take note of what the situation in the city to help manage the situation. began. The soldiers had until now been de- really is like. It’s unimaginable.” A doctor in the Lombardy city of Desperate scenes have unfolded in the ployed in the region to ensure general se- A hospital doctor in Bergamo, another Cremona, Romano Paolucci, told Reuters north of the country,particularly the hard- curity in the streets. Lombardy city, told CNN it had been hit that he had “seen a lot of dead here” and hit Lombardy region where infections first More than 4 000 people have now died so hard by the coronavirus that it is now that medical staff were battling to cope exploded last month, as hospitals struggle from the disease in Italy, the country’s sending patients who need intensive care with a lack of equipment, long hours and to treat thousands of cases. civil protection agency said yesterday – to other parts of the country. increasing sickness within their own Chinese medical experts helping Italy more than any other nation – and nearly “Bergamo is sending ICU patients to ranks. deal with the crisis have said the restric- 6 000 new infections were confirmed in other regions because we ran out [of “I would say that we are at the end of tions imposed in Lombardy are “not strict the past day, bringing the total to more space],” Dr. Stefano Magnone told CNN our strength,” he said. “This is a small enough.” than 47 000 cases. yesterday, adding that intensive care hospital and we are taking in a lot of peo- The government has now agreed that Daniela Confalonieri, an Italian nurse units in hospitals in nearby Brescia were ple, I would say the capacity is finished. the military can be used to help enforce in Milan, the region’s capital, said the sit- also full. Brescia is the second-worst “We do not have sufficient resources the lockdown, the president of the uation was so dire that the dead were no affected province, according to the civil and especially staff because apart from Lombardy region, Attilio Fontana, told a longer being counted. protection agency. everything else now the staff are news conference yesterday. “We’re working in a state of very high “Around 50 patients were sent out of beginning to get sick.” About 70 per cent “[The request to use the army] has been stress and tension,” Confalonieri told Lombardy to other regions, mainly in the of those treated at the hospital for accepted... and 114 soldiers will be on the Reuters. “Unfortunately we can’t contain south,” Magnone said. Less than half of Covid-19 are surviving, he added.

Partly cloudy to occasionally cloudy and breezy at times with a few brief scattered showers mainly during the morning.

High: 2:49 a.m. and 2:24 p.m. London: 06°C FAIR Yesterday: 11.0 mm Boston: 19°C FAIR Low: 8:23 a.m. For the month: 26.6 mm Max: 29.2°C Montreal: 14°C FAIR and 8:53 p.m. For the year: 135.5 mm Min: 22.8°C Toronto: 05°C PARTLY CLOUDY New York: 16°C FAIR 6:02 a.m. 6:09 p.m. Miami: 27°C FAIR 6:25 a.m. 5:51 p.m. 14 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Zoo animals ‘under threat’ from panic buying ANIMALS are being put at to close and he will have to panic buying, we are trying to imals were “having to discover of us will never get over.” risk because panic buying “consider euthanasia of some, buy the normal quantity of food new foods” but feeding them He urged people to continue and supermarket purchase if not all” of his zoo’s animals. for our animals that we buy was becoming more difficult. to visit zoos if they are able limits is making it difficult Mr Moiser urged people to from that store every week,” he “If many of us have to to. to feed them, a zoo owner donate spare fruit and vegeta- said. close we will, without financial “At the practical level, zoos has warned. bles to local zoos. “A couple of hours shopping a support, have to consider eu- remain a low-risk trip out,” Mr Chris Moiser, who runs He said some local supermar- week has become many times thanasia of some, if not all, of Moiser said. Tropiquaria Zoo in Somerset, kets and shops “have been longer, exposing staff to a our stock as food resources “They are mainly outside, said his staff had been “scour- good” but some will not allow greater infection potential as become simply unaffordable,” with large, open areas, which ing the shops for food”. purchases of “more than three they move from shop to shop, he said. means that you can keep your He said if food becomes “un- of any food item”. buying what they can.” “This is something that we distance from other visitors affordable” many zoos will have “This is fine, but we are not Mr Moiser said the zoo’s an- will hate doing, and that many whilst breathing in fresh air.”

Air pollution and CO2 fall rapidly as virus spreads LEVELS of air pollutants and in China and in Italy. warming gases over some cities An analysis carried out for the and regions are showing signif- climate website Carbon Brief icant drops as coronavirus im- suggested there had been a 25% pacts work and travel. drop in energy use and emis- Researchers in New York told sions in China over a two week the BBC their early results period.This is likely to lead to an showed carbon monoxide mainly overall fall of about 1% in from cars had been reduced by China’s carbon emissions this nearly 50% compared with last year, experts believe. year. Both China and Northern Emissions of the planet-heat- Italy have also recorded signifi- ing gas CO2 have also fallen cant falls in nitrogen dioxide, sharply. which is related to reduced car But there are warnings levels journeys and industrial activity. could rise rapidly after the The gas is both a serious air pandemic. pollutant and a powerful warm- With global economic activity ing chemical. Traffic has been much-reduced on the streets of New York. ramping down as a result of the With aviation grinding to a coronavirus pandemic, it is halt and millions of people work- In the coming months, govern- hardly surprising that emissions ing from home, a range of emis- ments will have a chance to alter of a variety of gases related to sions across many countries are that outcome. They could insist, energy and transport would be likely following the same down- for instance, that any bailout of reduced. ward path. airlines would be tied to far more Vampire bats ‘French Scientists say that by May, While people working from stringent reductions in aviation when CO2 emissions are at their home will likely increase the use emissions. peak thanks to the decomposi- of home heating and electricity, “Governments now have to be kiss with blood’ to tion of leaves, the levels recorded the curbing of commuting and really cautious on how they re- might be the lowest since the the general slowdown in stimulate their economies, mind- financial crisis over a decade economies will likely have an ful of not locking in fossil fuels form lasting bonds ago. impact on overall emissions. again,” said Prof Le Quéré. VAMPIRE bats establish “They have this ‘boom and While it is early days, data col- “I expect we will have the “They should focus those friendships by sharing regurgi- bust’ foraging experience,so lected in New York this week smallest increase in May to May things that are ready to go that tated blood with their neigh- they either hit it big and get a suggests that instructions to peak CO2 that we’ve had in the would lower emissions, like ren- bours in a “kind of horrifying large blood meal or they’re curb unnecessary travel are northern hemisphere since ovating buildings, putting in French kiss”, a new study says. starved for that night. having a significant impact. 2009, or even before,” said Prof heat pumps and electric charg- Researchers observing the “Food sharing in vampire Traffic levels in the city were Commane. ers. These are not complicated mammals said their sharing bats is like how a lot of birds re- estimated to be down 35% com- This view is echoed by others and can be done straight away, behaviours appeared to be an gurgitate food for their off- pared with a year ago. Emissions in the field, who believe that the they are just waiting for finan- important aspect of their spring. But what’s special with of carbon monoxide, mainly shutdown will impact CO2 levels cial incentives.” bonding. vampire bats is they do this due to cars and trucks, have for the whole of this year. However, some argue that if If bats go three days without for other adults,” Prof Carter fallen by around 50% for a cou- “It will depend on how long the pandemic goes on a long eating, they can die of starva- said. ple of days this week according the pandemic lasts, and how time, any stimulus would more tion, so sharing the blood can He added that the bats would to researchers at Columbia widespread the slowdown is in likely focus on promoting any be a life-saving act. groom even after their fur had University. the economy particularly in the economic growth regardless of The study, published in the been cleansed, suggesting that They have also found that US. But most likely I think we the impact on the environment. journal Current Biology,aimed the behaviour was not just an there was a 5-10% drop in CO2 will see something in the global “I certainly think climate to determine how the species issue of maintaining hygiene. over New York and a solid drop emissions this year,” said Prof could go on the back burner, and developed relationships. Vampire bats are the only in methane as well. Corinne Le Quéré from the in this case, I don’t think there is It found that when the vam- mammals to feed entirely on “New York has had exception- University of East Anglia. much hope that stimulus goes pire bats became isolated in a blood, which they get by biting ally high carbon monoxide “If it lasts another three of four to clean energy,” said Prof Glen roost, pairs unfamiliar with one larger animals such as cattle. numbers for the last year and a months, certainly we could see Peters from the Centre for another – but in close proxim- The flying creatures can half,” said Prof Róisín Commane, some reduction.” International Climate Research. ity – would begin grooming, drink up to half their weight from Columbia University, who What’s likely to make a major “Any stimulus will help those then “mouth-licking” before in blood a day, unlike their carried out the New York air difference to the scale of carbon with job losses such as tourism swapping food. other bat relatives, which monitoring work. emissions and air pollution is and services. I think this is very “We go from bats starting as generally dine on fruit, nectar “And this is the cleanest I have how governments decide to re- different to the global financial strangers from different or insects. ever seen it. It’s is less than half stimulate their economies once crisis. The only silver linings colonies to groupmates that In November, a scientific of what we normally see in the pandemic eases. could be to learning new prac- act to save each other’s life,” study discovered that bats that March.” Back in the 2008-09, after the tices to work remotely, and buy- said Prof Gerald Carter, author form bonds while in captivity Although there are a number global financial crash, carbon ing a few years of lower growth of the study and behavioural often continue their relation- of caveats to these findings, they emissions shot up by 5% as a re- allowing solar and wind to catch ecologist at Ohio State ships when released back into echo the environmental impacts sult of stimulus spending that up a bit, though, these may be University. the wild. connected to the virus outbreaks boosted fossil fuel use. rather small silver linings.”

The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 15

Smartphone sales collapse amid pandemic SALES of new phones have February was set to be a big Analytics. collapsed in the biggest fall month for the phone industry, “Supply and demand of since the invention of the with its major annual Mobile smartphones plunged in China, smartphone. World Congress showcase, slumped across Asia, and Research firm Strategy where many new phones are slowed in the rest of the world. Analytics said shipments in unveiled for the first time. “It is a period the smartphone February fell by 38% year-on- The event was one of the first industry will want to forget.” year. major conventions to be can- The research firm said it The outbreak of the coron- celled due to coronavirus. expected smartphone ship- avirus in China had a huge im- Samsung, which revealed its ments to continue to struggle pact, report author Linda Sui latest flagship S20 phones throughout March, now that Sales of new phones have collapsed in the biggest fall since the said. in February, has reportedly the virus has spread through invention of the smartphone. Apple warned it would miss its “Some Asian factories were seen slow initial sales of the Europe and into the United profit forecasts and said that worldwide iPhone supply would be unable to manufacture smart- devices. States. ‘constrained’. phones, while many consumers Meanwhile, Apple warned it Hundreds of millions of po- were unable or unwilling to would miss its profit forecasts tential customers are now in nancial targets being missed rather than at a high-profile visit retail stores and buy new and said that worldwide iPhone lockdown – or unwilling to head and difficulties with iPhone event as would be usual. devices,” she said. supply would be “constrained”. to the shops. supply, Apple announced two Analyst Ben Wood told the The report said that smart- “February 2020 saw the Retailers may decide to offer new products this week – a new BBC it was “the first time I can phone shipments dropped from biggest-ever fall in the history “generous” discounts on bun- iPad Pro with laser-scanning remember that Apple has 99.2 million in February 2019 of the worldwide smartphone dles to bolster sales, Strategy technology,and a new MacBook announced such a high-profile to 61.8 million in February market,” said Neil Mawston, ex- Analytics said. Air. product with such little fan- 2020. ecutive director at Strategy Despite its warning about fi- But it did so by press release, fare”. Ways to stay social online while in self-isolation EVERYONE should avoid non- tion doesn’t mean your pet essential contact with others stays healthy,” he adds, noting to prevent the spread of the that it also gives vets who are coronavirus, the prime minis- housebound something to keep ter has said. them occupied. As schools shut and some People are also signing up to people work from home, many dog-walking apps, such as are feeling cut off from their Borrow My Doggy, to walk the everyday hobbies and social pets of those who cannot be- lives. cause of new working arrange- But the internet offers a ments or self-isolation. means to stay connected and to keep us all entertained and Cooking educated through the days of Following food shortages in isolation. supermarkets, foodies are get- Here are just some of the ting creative online, posting ways people are already using tips for alternative ingredients technology to lift their spirits. and recipes with a limited food cupboard. Socialising remotely Nia Williams, director of Groups have also been finding Slow Food Wales, a grassroots innovative ways to socialise, movement that promotes local hosting dinner parties and food and traditional cooking, is even Brownies meetings on- making video guides on how to line. grow fruit and vegetables at Goose’s Quizzes usually Vets can help provide pet owners with advice online. home. runs 45 pub quizzes in “We’ve had so much freedom Scotland, but has started doing It synchronises screens and era in God’s House Tower’s fas- “It really gives you a chance and access in our lives recently, live online sessions every creates a group chat to commu- cinating 700-year-old history to take a break from work, stay so now people have gone into night, with hundreds partici- nicate. by presenting art exhibitions calm and process everything shock,” Nia says. pating. online.” that’s going on. “I’m making these videos “It’s been a pretty bad couple Museums and art galleries “Stretching can make a big so families have something of weeks and pub quizzes bring For those craving some culture, Workout videos difference if you’re hunched up to do but to also empower the community together,” says museums and galleries have Exercise classes have moved on a laptop all day at home.” them to have a bit more Andrew Wildgoose, founder of been posting on social media from gyms to online, creating control over their food and sit- Goose’s Quizzes. under the hashtag #museum- videos or “lives” on Instagram Petcare uation.” “So we wanted to find a way fromhome, showcasing their and Facebook. Free video appointments with Finally, for those wishing to for people to still enjoy them.” collections. Many fitness clubs, including vets are also being offered on add a touch of class to their Even book clubs are operat- One exhibition at God’s Barry’s, Crossfit and David the FirstVet app until the end nights in, the Champagne ing digitally, with private House Tower in Southampton Lloyd, are providing online of April. Bureau has this handy guide to WhatsApp groups forming to is having a “virtual launch” workouts people can do at Users are paired with a pairing champagne with your share reading lists and Rebel today, as the venue has shut home. qualified vet who can give takeaway of choice. Book Club launching a 14-day due to coronavirus. Amanda Dufour, a yoga in- advice and refer the patient “Champagne is a versatile free reading challenge for “We’re really devastated that structor who is currently self- to a physical service if neces- wine which enhances our anyone who needs extra the venue has to close tem- isolating, has filmed YouTube sary. everyday meals,” says accountability. porarily,” says Daniel Crow,di- videos to follow and has been David Prien, the firm’s co- Francoise Peretti, director of People have also been down- rector of the gallery. teaching classes via Zoom and founder, says there’s been the UK division. loading the free Google Chrome “Hopefully, this will allow Skype. an 80% rise in people using “As we face these times of un- extension Netflix Party, which people around the world, not “The best thing about yoga the app over the past few certainty and self-isolate,it allows users to watch Netflix just those local, to see it. is that you can do it anywhere, weeks. will provide the joyful lift we all together. “It really does herald a new with no equipment,” she says. “Just because you’re in isola- need,” 16 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Daytime Emmys cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic THE Daytime Emmy more than 1 000 partici- “While we realize this and we look forward Awards ceremony is pants, National is disappointing, this to announcing our being called off over Academy of Television does not mean we will incredibly talented the coronavirus pan- Arts & Sciences not be celebrating the nominees later this demic. Chairman Terry work selected for recog- spring. We are working “There are just too O’Reilly wrote in a nition in our Awards on some interesting many unknowns right letter to members. judging processes,” alternative ideas for now, not the least of The 47th Daytime Brent Stanton, the exec- how to best recognize which is whether we Emmy Awards had utive director of the the honourees later this would actually be been scheduled for Daytime Emmy Awards, year and will share permitted to stage an June 12 to 14 in said in a statement. more details in the event in June” involving Pasadena, California. “Judging continues, weeks ahead.”

Gal Gadot celeb-packed ‘Imagine’ cover slammed JUST call her Blunder Will Ferrell and other from his balcony. the COVID-19 crisis, Woman. Hollywood elites singing But her musical which has prompted Gal Gadot’s attempt to the lyrics of the late morale boost rang hollow nationwide business cheer up coronavirus iso- Beatle star’s opus, with the social media closures, and thousands lationists with a celeb- which envisions a masses, who labelled the of restaurant worker studded cover of John world without strife. video “cringe” and “out of lay-offs in New York Lennon’s “Imagine” “Imagine there’s no touch”. City alone. backfired after Twitter heaven,” crooned Gadot, “I’ve always hated this “BOO, donate if you users wondered why prompting “Saturday song,” scoffed one really care abt the they couldn’t send Night Live” alum Twitter critic. “’Imagine world,” wrote one money instead. Kristen Wiig to follow no possessions,’ sung by Instagram commenter. “We’re all in this to- with, “It’s easy if you some of the wealthiest Another mocked, gether,” said the Wonder try.” people in the world.” “Honey, look at all the Woman star, 34, at the The former Miss Israel “Imagine all the rich people singing start of the viral video 2004 winner said the people … Eating all Imagine. Everything will posted Wednesday to her video, reportedly the riiiich,” snarked be all right now, even 36.8 million-fan recorded on day six of another. though we both lost our Instagram page. her own quarantine, was Others wondered why jobs. This was The three minute clip inspired by a clip of a the deep-pocketed diva so much better than then cuts to a montage of trumpet player in Italy couldn’t just send cash to money and not cringy Bridge Gadot, Mark Ruffalo, performing “Imagine” help those suffering from at all.” The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 17 SPORTSSPORTS Barbados Cup Crowds form at Olympic torch event cancelled in Japan despite coronavirus caution THE Barbados Cup, a youth football JAPAN – An Olympic torch event in tournament held during the Easter Japan drew hundreds of spectators on weekend has been the latest to be the day of the flame’s arrival yesterday, forced to cancel due to the COVID-19. creating the type of packed gathering the In a state released on Thursday, by government and Tokyo 2020 organisers the tournament director George have warned against to prevent coron- Lacaris, he said that the 2020 edition avirus from spreading further. of the tournament was being cancelled About 500 people gathered in a jostling with immediate effect. crowd to look at the flame and popular co- In the release he stated that they medians taking part in a ceremony in reached out to the health authorities Ishinomaki, 335 kilometres (208 miles) for information and the development north of Tokyo. about the outbreak which quickly The Greek part of the torch relay began became a pandemic. last week, but a day later the remainder With the directives and the virus was cancelled to avoid attracting crowds. changing each day the main focus is “It is not a good decision (to come here) keeping the young players and officials but I am not sure if I will get another safe and as such: chance to see the cauldron,” Ishinomaki “The Ministry of Health has issued a resident and teacher Kiyotake Goto, 44, directive to ban ALL sporting events told Reuters. with attendances of 100 persons or over Earlier in the day,a plane carrying the Three-time Olympic gold medalists Tadahiro Nomura and Saori Yoshida light with immediate effect, The Barbados torch from Greece arrived at Japan Air the Olympic Flame at the Olympic cauldron during a ceremony at Japan Air Cup is therefore cancelling with Self-Defence Force’s Matsushima airbase, Self-Defense Force Matsushima Base in Higashi-Matsuhsima, Miyagi prefecture, immediate effect the 2020 tournament which was devastated by a powerful northern Japan March 20, 2020. scheduled for 5-10 April.The inevitable earthquake and tsunami in 2011. sense of unease and anxiety about the No spectators were present for the “That was an agonising decision... We Saori Yoshida, three-times gold-medal changing environment does not arrival ceremony at the base, where will do our utmost in preparing for a safe winning wrestler, told the welcome preclude our thinking about a future officials pledged the Tokyo 2020 Games and secure event,” said Mori, a former ceremony. date when we have overcome this will proceed despite mounting pressure to prime minister. The flame will travel round the Tohoku pandemic.” halt the world’s biggest sporting event Organisers have repeatedly said the region hit by the 2011 tsunami and earth- The released stated that the decision due to the coronavirus pandemic. Games, due to run from July 24 to August quake, in what organisers call a “recovery was driven by the public health “We originally planned to have children 9, will go ahead, but as the rapid spread flame” tour before the official kick-off concerns as they recognise what is here to welcome the flame. But, of the virus brings the sports world to a ceremony in Fukushima on March 26. happening is global and beyond their prioritising their safety, we’ve decided to virtual standstill, fears are growing Organisers have urged the public not to ability to change. (CG/PR) do without them,” Tokyo 2020 chief that the Olympics may be postponed or crowd the relay route, cancelling many Yoshiro Mori said. cancelled. events along the way and restricting “I think it’s impossible [to hold the public access to others. Runners and staff Games]. It’ll be a global issue if the virus will have their temperatures and health spreads even further,” Koichiro Maeda, a monitored, organisers said. 55-year-old company employee, told Some athletes, including reigning Sol Rally Barbados, Flow Reuters in downtown Tokyo. Olympic pole vault champion Katerina Stefanidi, said the International Olympic Health crisis Committee’s decision to go ahead was King of the Hill postponed Japan is grappling with pressure to avoid putting their health at risk when entire anticipated that we will see an escala- a health crisis among 600 000 expected countries have shut down to curb the tion similar to that seen around the overseas spectators and athletes at an virus. Rally Club remains world, in both the number of persons event that could see $3 billion in The torch relay will begin at J-Village, committed to infected, as well as the Government’s sponsorships and at least $12 billion a soccer training centre in Fukushima reaction in an effort to limit the spread of spent on preparations evaporate. that served as an operations base for major events the virus. Given the above, I have to un- The plane with the torch arrived nearly workers who battled triple meltdowns at SOL RALLYBARBADOS 2020 and Flow fortunately advise that all Sprint and All empty after the Tokyo 2020 organising the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power King of the Hill, scheduled for the last two Stage Rally Motorsport run by the Club committee decided not to send a high- plant after the 2011 tsunami. weekends in May, have been postponed. will be suspended until further notice.” level delegation that was originally to It is due to pass many of Japan’s most Following confirmation of the first two Sol RB20, round three of the 2020 FIA have included Mori and Olympics famous landmarks over a 121-day journey cases of Covid-19 in the island on Tuesday NACAM Championship, was scheduled minister Seiko Hashimoto. to Tokyo’s Olympic stadium, including (March 17) and the escalation of the to run from Friday to Sunday, May 29 to “This is a tough time. I hope the torch Mount Fuji, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial coronavirus crisis in the UK, 31, with The Rally Show and Flow King relay will bring people vigour and hope,” Park and Kumamoto Castle. the Barbados Rally Club (BRC) has of the Hill on May 23 and 24. The reacted quickly to confirm the news. deadline for UK crews to deliver their The announcement of confirmed cases cars to Portsmouth for shipping on the in the island triggered Stage 1 of a Geest Line, however, is five weeks earlier Government Protocol aimed at limiting and, with the situation in the UK steadily Suspension of activities at the spread of the virus, which includes a worsening, the logistics add to the ban on public gatherings of more than complications. 100 people. As a result, the BRC has ad- Despite the current state of affairs, vised that its calendar of sprint and rally Hamilton added, “The Club remains Table Tennis Centre events, which was due to kick off with totally committed to running our major FOLLOWING the confirmation of cases suspend all activities with immediate the innovative ‘Test Stage’ on Saturday, events in the latter part of the year,when of COVID-19 in Barbados and the effect and be guided by the recommen- March 28, will be suspended until we hope the environment allows.We have measures outlined by Government to dations of health authorities and a further notice. already identified a number of potential minimise its spread, the Barbados further advisory from the Barbados Table BRC and Sol RB Chairman Mark dates, but it is critical that we provide the Table Tennis Association has Tennis Association. Hamilton said,“As the world continues to best options for all our stakeholders, from decided to close the Table Tennis Any decision to resume training and to grapple with, and react to, the effects of the competitors, to the Club’s commer- Centre, located on Nursery Drive, re-open the Table Tennis Centre will be the coronavirus, it has become very cial partners, as well as the thousands of Bridgetown. made according to the guidance of local apparent that very few of us will not be spectators. To this end, we are already in As a result of the closure, national health authorities and in alignment impacted in some way.With the first two talks with all concerned, so that we are training will be suspended until further with the regulations of the National known cases in the island confirmed, it is ready to go when the situation improves.” notice. Clubs, teams and players should COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. 18 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Latin American committees Virus poses new threat for push for qualifiers to Games that only war has stopped go down to the wire LONDON – The prevent the Los Angeles ance and environmental to the 1992 Albertville BUENOS AIRES/ASUN- tween July 24-August 9. International Olympic Games from going ahead concerns.The Austrian re- Winter Games in France CION/MEXICO CITY – The presidents of Committee (IOC) and in 1932. sort of Innsbruck stepped being followed by Athletes should be given Olympic committees in Tokyo 2020 organisers The four-yearly in instead. Norway’s Lillehammer the chance to qualify for Argentina, Mexico and insist the Games will Summer sequence has so There have also been in 1994. the Tokyo Olympics right Paraguay told Reuters proceed as planned far been interrupted only three major boycotts – of Any delay or uncer- until the Games begin discussions with the IOC despite the global by World Wars. Montreal in 1976, Moscow tainty is difficult for ath- on July 24 due to the dis- were ongoing about hold- coronavirus epidemic, The planned 1916 in 1980 and Los Angeles letes, whose training rou- ruption caused to the ing the qualifiers in May but calls for a post- Berlin Games never in 1984 – but each time tines are already severely sporting calendar by the and June as well as using ponement are growing happened and the 1940 the Games went ahead. disrupted in some coun- coronavirus pandemic, athletes’ previous com- louder. Summer Olympics were Even after the attack dur- tries where lockdowns are Olympic committees in petition results. If there is ultimately reassigned from Tokyo to ing the Munich Games of in place. Qualifying for Latin America said. “The qualifiers are a a delay, maybe by a few Helsinki after Japan in- 1972, when 11 members certain sports also re- Global sport has come concern and in that sense months or a year or even vaded China in 1937 and of the Israeli team and a mains in limbo. to a virtual standstill it was agreed to analyse two, it would not be the then to oblivion when German policeman, along Whatever might emerge due to the virus, which other types of qualifiers, first time Olympic plans Russia marched into with five Palestinian gun- through the commercial has claimed more than such as using the Pan have been blown off track. Finland two years later. men, were killed, the and logistical minefield, a 10,000 lives globally.The American Games in In 1906 that was liter- The war also put paid to Games were back up and lengthy delay could be a situation has left thou- Lima,” said Camilo ally the case when the the 1944 Olympics, suc- running after a 34-hour step too far for some ath- sands of Olympic hope- Pérez, President of the eruption of the volcano cessfully bid for by London suspension. letes hoping for a final fuls in limbo with many Paraguayan committee, Vesuvius led to the 1908 in 1939, with the British Should Tokyo be pushed hurrah – even if raising qualifying events around referring to the 2019 Summer Olympics being capital hosting them in back to 2021 or beyond, it the hopes of others who the world postponed or tournament in Peru. reassigned from Rome to 1948 instead. would be the only time the might not otherwise have cancelled. “And extending dead- London as Italy diverted The Winter Games of Summer Games’ four-year been in contention. The International lines that would reach funding to rebuilding 1940 (Sapporo, Japan) and spacing has been inter- “What makes this crisis Olympic Committee almost the date of the Naples. 1944 (Cortina d’Ampezzo, rupted for reasons other so unique and so difficult (IOC) said 57% of 11,000 Games.” Back then, in simpler Italy) also fell foul of the than global conflict – to overcome is the uncer- athletes have secured The pandemic, which times without television war. not counting the 1906 tainty,” IOC president their Olympic spots for has crashed global mar- or professional athletes, Only one city, Denver, ‘Intercalated Games’, now Thomas Bach told the the 33-sport extrava- kets and forced several the Games went ahead in in the United States, has unrecognised by the IOC. New York Times on ganza. countries to shut their a stadium built in just 10 handed back the rights The Winter version has Thursday. Calls to postpone the borders, is also prevent- months. after being awarded them. been there before, how- “Nobody today can tell Games have so far fallen ing many athletes from Financial storms have In 1970 Colorado’s Mile- ever. In 1986, the IOC you what the develop- on deaf ears, with the continuing their training been weathered too – even High City was handed the opted to alternate the ments are tomorrow,what IOC and Japanese Prime regime as several coun- the Great Depression, 1976 Winter Games but Winter and Summer they are in one month, not Minister repeatedly in- tries are advising people running from 1929 and backed out in November Games at two-year inter- to mention in more than sisting the event will go to practise social isola- into the late 1930s, did not 1972 after public resist- vals – a change that led four months.” ahead as scheduled be- tion in a bid to stem the spread of the virus. Despite all the dis- ruption, Perez said the County season delayed until at least May 28 because of coronavirus regional committees THE county cricket sea- agreed during a video- son will not start until at conference to unani- least May 28 because of mously support the the coronavirus crisis. IOC’s plans to stage the The England and Wales Olympics as planned. Cricket Board said “given “Athletes have to do the current information everything possible to available, a seven-week try to keep fit and con- delay... is the most appro- tinue (training) in this priate approach”. scenario. We are four It said it is possible that months away and the the season could start world situation changes behind closed doors, with every day,” Perez said. fans able to watch live Gerardo Werthein, broadcast action. President of the The County Argentine Olympic Championship was due to Committee, said there begin on April 12. was no indication the England are not sched- Games would be sus- uled to play until June 4, pended but that it was “a when they start a three- dynamic scenario” that Test series against West changed on a daily basis. Indies. “We are not going to The ECB said work had take any risks that could started on possible revised harm someone, neither schedules for the men and the athletes nor the spec- women’s game to begin in tators, nor all the people June, July or August, cov- who will work to the ering international and Essex won the County Championship title last season. Games,” he said. domestic matches. Werthein hoped the ECB chief executive “The decision to delay length of season we are ties across international city franchises, is sched- qualifiers could resume Tom Harrison said: the start of the season has able to safely schedule in and domestic cricket.” uled to run in July and in May or June. “During this period of been essential, given the the coming months. The T20 Blast, the August, while the 50-over “But the most impor- deep uncertainty it is the circumstances the nation “Securing the future of domestic 20-over compe- One-day Cup is due to tant thing is that the ECB’s first priority to faces. the game will be a pri- tition which is the most begin in July. IOC has decided to relax protect the well-being “I am reassured by the mary focus as we plot a lucrative for counties, is Earlier this week, qualification rules,” he of everyone within the collaborative effort from revised schedule with an set to start on May 28. England bowler James added, saying that re- cricket family, from play- across the game that to- emphasis on the most fi- The Hundred, the Anderson said “there’s a sults from previous com- ers, to fans and colleagues gether we will make the nancially important forms ECB’s new 100-ball tour- chance we might not even petitions in the region across the game. very best of whatever of the game for the coun- nament featuring eight bowl a ball this summer”. could be used. The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 19

T&T football association USA Swimming pushes for challenges FIFA take-over postponement of Tokyo Games, PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The citing coronavirus outbreak Trinidad and Tobago NEW YORK – USA amid the coronavirus oritise everyone’s health Football Association Swimming yesterday pandemic, which has and safety and appropri- (TTFA), now over the called for the US Olympic prompted the cancella- ately recognise the toll initial shock of being and Paralympic tion or postponement of this global pandemic is taken over by the Committee (USOPC) to major sporting events taking on athletic prepa- world governing body advocate for a one-year across the globe. rations,” USA Swimming for the sport, is chal- postponement of the up- “The right and respon- CEO Tim Hinchey said in lenging the move in coming Tokyo Games sible thing to do is to pri- the letter. court. T TFA president William Wallace announced on Wednesday that the as- sociation has mounted a challenge to FIFA’s decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). On Tuesday, FIFA an- nounced that the TTFA TTFA president, William Wallace. board would be replaced by a normalisation com- lawyers Dr. Emir Crowne move was made against mittee, in an effort to and Mathew Gayle. the last administration restore governance and “We are going to chal- from which his executive financial stability to the lenge it because we don’t inherited a multi-million- beleaguered organisation. think that the process was dollar debt. And he ques- It took the decision after followed. We don’t think tioned why new elections an assessment it carried that it is justifiable,” would be needed. out in conjunction with Wallace said. “They are talking about continental governing In announcing the ap- elections in two years or body, CONCACAF, found pointment of the normali- less.We are a duly-elected extremely low overall sation committee, FIFA body, there was nothing La Liga president Javier Tebas is confident all of this season’s domestic football financial management said the current financial wrong with the elections competitions will be completed. methods, combined with a situation was putting the and so on, and that is the massive debt that resulted TTFA and development of course of action you would in the local body facing “a football in the twin-island have taken,” said Wallace, European football aiming for mid-May very real risk of insolvency republic at risk, and cor- whose United TTFA team and illiquidity”. rective measures needed defeated Team Impactors, In an initial reaction, to be applied urgently. It led by John-Williams, resumption – La Liga president Wallace, whose team took said the committee would 26-20 in the November 24, LA LIGA president to next summer means European competitions. over from the David John- have up to two years to do 2019 elections. Javier Tebas says there is more time to If circumstances permit, Williams-led executive its work, which would in- In the build-up to the Europe’s top leagues complete domestic we could bring that for- last November, said he clude creating a debt re- vote, John-Williams had and competitions are league seasons. ward. was surprised by the payment plan which the appeared to have the sup- planning to resume in “There are 30 affected “We need to work to- move. TTFA can implement and port of FIFA president mid-May following Euro leagues, 30 cup tourna- gether.” But he told local media overseeing new elections Gianni Infantino and 2020’s postponement. ments, and we have to co- On Thursday, English on Wednesday that he has for an executive commit- CONCACAF president, The coronavirus pan- ordinate each schedule and Scottish football ex- now given his lawyers au- tee to run the TTFA again. Victor Montagliani, who demic has led to the at both a national and tended their suspensions thorisation to challenge But Wallace was visited the island for the suspension of all club international level,” said until 30 April. The FIFA’s decision.The TTFA puzzled about why such grand opening of its Home football. Tebas. Football Association said has retained the services drastic action was being of Football complex in The European “In mid-May we should the current season can be of prominent sports taken, considering no such Couva. Championship’s move be back with all “extended indefinitely”.

Tom Brady joins Tampa Bay Buccaneers, seeks more Super Bowl plunder SIX-TIMES Super Bowl year or the year before Buccaneers general has switched teams after will include 1,000-yard impending signing with winning quarterback Tom you earn the trust and re- manager Jason Licht, 20 years with one em- receivers in Mike Evans Tampa, according to Brady signed with the spect of those around who was a scout for the ployer and now Brady and Chris Godwin and sportsbetting.ag. Tampa Bay Buccaneers through your commit- Patriots in 2000 when will try to become only pass-catching tight ends A certain first-ballot yesterday, transforming ment every single day. they drafted Brady. the second quarterback in O.J. Howard and Pro Football Hall of the team into a champi- “I’m starting a new “I’ve known Tom since to win Super Bowls with Cameron Brate. Famer when he becomes onship contender. football journey and we drafted him in New two different teams. Tampa hosts the Super eligible, Brady was a The face of the New thankful for the @bucca- England 20 years ago and Brady, who turns 43 in Bowl next February and lightly regarded prospect England Patriots for two neers for giving me an through this process it be- August, will lead a Tampa it is clear Brady believes coming out of college, the decades, Brady will have opportunity do what I came very clear that his Bay offence that ranked the Buccaneers provide 199th pick in the 2000 a new home after agree- love to do.” desire to be a champion third in scoring last him the best opportunity NFL Draft. ing a one-year deal worth Florida may be the re- burns as strong today as year under quarterback to add to his trophy case, In the second game of $30 million according to a tirement capital of the it ever has.” Jameis Winston. The which also includes four the 2001 season, Brady report on NFL.com. United States but Brady, The Buccaneers have number one overall pick Super Bowl most valu- took over as Patriots “Excited humble and who has said he wants to not made the NFL post- in the 2015 draft, able player awards. quarterback after veteran hungry,” Brady said on an play until he is 45, still season since 2007. In two Winston had a strong On Feb. 3, the day after Drew Bledsoe went down Instagram post with a has work to do. decades with the Patriots, arm but threw a league this year’s Super Bowl, with an injury. Brady led picture of him signing “Tom is a proven cham- Brady led the team to high 30 interceptions. the Buccaneers were that team to the fran- what appeared to be a pion who has achieved six Super Bowl champi- It has been years since given 66-1 odds to hoist chise’s first-ever Super contract. “If there is one greatness on the field onships in nine appear- Brady has had as many the Lombardi trophy Bowl victory and went on thing I have learned because he demands the ances, along with a record explosive athletes at his next season. Those odds to put together one of the about football, it’s nobody best out of himself and 30 playoff wins. disposal as he will have dropped as low as 12-1 as greatest careers in NFL cares what you did last his teammates,” said No other NFL player in Tampa. His weapons news spread of Brady’s history.

20 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

FOR RENT REAL ESTATE GEMSWICK 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1 or 2 Bedroom 6, 272 sq.ft. World Snooker Furnished / Unfurnished Price on request Short / Long-term, Water Included, Championship at 2 persons LAND FOR SALE Call 243-4969 1) St. Philip Crucible postponed REAL ESTATE Kirtons THE World Snooker On Tuesday, the Tour 10,208 sq.ft. Championship has been Championship in FOR RENT $175,000.00 Apartments postponed because of the Llandudno - scheduled 2) Casuarina Estates coronavirus pandemic. for 17-22 March - was 1) Gibbons - 2 bed, 1 bath, 9,900 sq.ft. Judd Trump had been postponed until 21-26 furnished - $1,600.00 $200,000.00 due to defend his title at July. the tournament, which “Snooker players are 2) Gibbons - 1 bed, 1 bath, 3) Christ Church was scheduled to take self-employed. They need furnished - $1,200.00 Bird's Eye Ridge place from 18 April to 4 opportunities to earn 5,449 sq.ft. May. prize money so we have a 3) Yorkshire - 2 bed, 1 bath, $125,000.00 semi-furnished _ $1,500.00 Organisers hope to responsibility to them,” 4) St. Peter reschedule it in July or Hearn said. Townhouses Maynards Grove August. “We are currently 6,591 sq.ft. The championship, the exploring the potential to 1) Clermont Green, St. Mi- $195,000.00 17th and final ranking stage tournaments chael - 2 bed, 1 _ bath, fur- event of the season, has behind closed doors to nished - $2,500.00 5) Christ Church REAL ESTATE taken place for 43 years keep the circuit alive, Available 1st February 2020. Rendezvous Meadows 7) Warrens Terrace Executive 2 bedroom, 2.5 Turkey running at the Crucible with more details to 6, 534 sq. ft. in Sheffield. follow next week.” Commercial $140,000.00 bathroom townhouse, AC in bedrooms; nicely finished suspends World Snooker Tour World number one 1) Wildey Business Centre 6) St. Thomas $495,000.00 chairman Barry Hearn Trump became the first St. Michael Lot #16 Applegrove Bucks soccer, said: “These are tough player to win six ranking 580 sq.ft. 2.13 Acres 8) Horsehill times for everyone but titles in a single season $2,000.00 per month + VAT $550,000.00 58,000 sq.ft. with a large we are determined to get by taking the Gibraltar inclusive of service charges house with a 2 bedroom basketball, through it. Open behind closed doors Available immediately 7) St. George apartment, excellent for con- “Fans around the world on Sunday. version to an intimate bed Rowans volleyball - as well as the 144 Meanwhile, the World 2) Webster Park and breakfast or retreat or 11,200 sq.ft. approx players involved - are Professional Billiards First Floor $25.00 per sq. ft. rehailitation facility $40,192.00 per month + VAT $2,600,00.00 matches anxious to know if and and Snooker Association inclusive of service charges 8) St. Philip when the World (WPBSA) will provide Available immediately for fit Emerald City 9) 8.868sq ft at South View indefinitely Championship will go support for players out Fort George Heights Christ ahead. affected by the 6,000 sq.ft. ANKARA - Turkey’s $220,000.00 Church $195,000.00 “I can assure everyone coronavirus outbreak. 3) Warrens soccer, basketball and that we are doing all we This includes St. Michael Apartment Building 10) 5922sq ft at Ealing Park volleyball leagues can alongside our immediate financial, Christ Church $177,800.00 Multi-purpose building with suspended matches broadcasters, the venues travel and practical help parking 1) Clapham Heights and other partners to for all players on the 15,700 sq.ft. indefinitely on Unfurnished two storey (3 confirm new dates as main tour. Rental rate to be negotiated apartments) OTHER PROPERTIES FOR Thursday due to the Situated on 8, 305 sq.ft. RENT widening coronavirus soon as possible.” WPBSA chairman 4) Lower Estate Price on request outbreak, bowing to World Snooker says it Jason Ferguson said: “All St. Michael 1) Warrens Park pressure from players hopes to be able to of us at the WPBSA care 15,000 sq.ft. 2 bedroom upstairs apart- announce rearranged about our players and 2) Belleville Main Road (for and coaches after Modern Building commercial purposes) ment $1,300.00 dates for the tournament will do everything in our Price on request Property on 24, 126 sq.ft. many other countries “in the coming days” power to help everybody 2) Ocean City $1.3 million called off sports after talks with through at this difficult 5) Disaster recovery facility 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Floor area - 7,008.41 sq.ft. events. broadcasters. time." in Lower Estate house, enclosed, pets wel- Office #1 - 1,020 sq.ft. - come $1,800.00 Turkey’s Sports $4,800.00 per month + VAT OTHER PROPERTIES FOR Minister Muharrem Office #4 - 680 sq.ft. - SALE 3) Oldbury Terrace Kasapoglu made the UEFA admit error over ‘Euro $3,800.00 per month + VAT Executive style 2 bedroom, 2 announcement in a Office #9 - 340 sq.ft. - 1) Eagle Hall bathroom, fully furnished joint press conference 2020’ name for tournament $2,000.00 per month + VAT apartment $1,800.00 Approx 23,000 sq. ft. of land with the presidents of All inclusive of service with buildings, in a prime UEFA were forced into mistake,” they tweeted. charge main road position with park- 4) Maynards the soccer, basketball an embarrassing about- Euro 2020 has been Available immediately ing $1,750,000.00 Spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 and volleyball turn Friday after they pushed back 12 months bathroom house, $2,500.00 federations. mistakenly tweeted that to June 11 to July 11 6) Green Hill 2) Cottage Heights Euro 2020 would keep its next year to clear the St. Michael 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom ex- 5) Chancery Lane original title despite way for suspended Furnished 2 bedroom apart- Standalone warehouse ecutve style house on 7,738 being pushed back to domestic competitions to ment $1,400.00 7,224 sq.ft. - $10,000.00 per sq.ft. $725,000.00 2021 as a result of the wrap up if conditions month coronavirus. allow. Plus Service Charge 3) Cane Vale 6) Mount Standfast Available 1st February, 2020 3 bedroom furnished house CHURCH “Although it will UEFA said the Fairly new development with provisionally take place postponement “will help a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom $2,700.00 NOTICES FOR SALE house $550,000.00 from 11 June - 11 July all domestic Houses 7) Warrens Heights, St. Tho- JAMES STREET 2021, #EURO2020 will competitions, currently 4) Mangrove Park mas METHODIST CHURCH still be known as UEFA on hold due to the BRIDGETOWN 1) Shrewsbury Gardens 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Executive Townhouse EURO 2020,” UEFA had COVID-19 emergency, to St. Philip house with a spacious 1 bed- 3 En-suite Bedrooms confidently said on be completed” as it made 1 Powder Room SUNDAY 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom room apartment $525,000.00 MARCH 22ND, 2020 Twitter. a “commitment” to $375,000.00 Gated However, just hours finishing club seasons by 5) Oakwood Park Security Cameras 9:00 A.M. later, they were less June 30. 2) Jackson 5,189 sq.ft. with a 3 bed- Furnished $4,000.00 per mth REV M. FILANISE SANON assured. Twenty of the 24 or Semi-Furnished $3,500.00 St. Michael room, 2 bathroom and home SIS URETA LAVINE “With apologies for the nations set to take part per mth DIVINE WORSHIP 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom office $585,000.00 earlier error, to be clear in the Euro have already 8,700 sq.ft. 5:30 P.M. no decision has yet been qualified, but play-offs to $427,000.00 6) Ealing Park Contact: HT Realty REV ADRIAN ODLE made on the name of the determine the final four 6,256 sq.ft. of land LENTEN SERVICE AT WHITE- rearranged EURO to be participants, due to be 3) Ealing Park $160,000.00 230-4383 HALL METHODIST CHURCH Christ Church held in 2021. The earlier played this month, have Fixer Upper tweet was sent by been postponed. The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 • 21 22 • Saturday March 21, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

US committee: Athletes should continue to prepare for competition ATHLETES should continue to pre- available to them and in a safe and in The US swimming (June 21-28), gym- pare for the Tokyo 2020 Games an appropriate environment, based on nastics (June 25-28) and track and field while taking precautions amid the local health official guidance, to con- (June 21-28) trials have so far not been coronavirus pandemic, United tinue to do what they can to prepare impacted, but many others including States Olympic and Paralympic themselves for competition. wrestling, rowing, canoe and shooting Committee (USOPC) CEO Sarah “We know the training schedules of have been postponed. Hirshland said yesterday. our athletes have been significantly “Our teams are working very hard In the face of growing concern and disrupted and, as we are having to be to partner with each sport and national calls to have the Tokyo Olympics post- creative and nimble in adapting our governing body and the athletes poned, the International Olympic lives, we are asking athletes to do the from those sports to determine how to Committee (IOC) has pressed on, saying same but put their safety first and adapt team selection and selection the July 24-Aug. 9 spectacle will go foremost.” criteria so we are prepared for a ahead as scheduled. Underscoring the difficulty athletes variety of potential outcomes,” said The USOPC has so far backed the face in finding safe and suitable facili- Hirshland. IOC’s position and said it will continue ties, Hirshland confirmed that both The USOPC said it has been in al- to do so as long it is satisfied athlete USOPC training centres, including the most constant contact with the IOC and health and safety is not compromised, one where their headquarters are lo- that so far no athletes had tested posi- telling athletes to continue to train as cated in Colorado Springs, have been tive for the COVID-19 virus. long as they can do so in a safe environ- closed by the outbreak. As with most sports impacted by the ment. “A number of athletes have left the coronavirus, the USOPC is running The outbreak has infected over 250 training centre because they are not through various scenarios. 000 people and killed more than 10 000, able to train there and to go and spend So far no specific deadline for making bringing global sport to a virtual stand- times with their loved ones,” said a decision on whether or not to take still. Hirshland. part in the Tokyo Games has been put United States Olympic and Paralympic “We are very clearly encouraging “We are certainly enormously sup- in place and the USOPC said it will Committee (USOPC) CEO Sarah everyone in our community to put their portive of everyone finding support take guidance from the medical com- Hirshland. safety and the safety of those in their structure and infrastructure where munity. communities and those around them they feel safe.” “We are trying to be as prepared as we “Our priority, and frankly we view it first, following the guidance of local can be for any variety of potential out- as our obligation to the athletes we health officials above and beyond Significant disruption comes,” said Hirshland. “We are focused serve, is to be ready if there is an oppor- anything else,” said Hirshland, in a con- Hirshland conceded the outbreak has on Tokyo 2020 and will continue to be. tunity for them. ference call following a USOPC board caused significant disruption to As long as that possibility stays ahead “We are not going to be the reason meeting. Olympic qualifying events, which she of us we will do everything we can to not they don’t have that opportunity. We “We’re also asking athletes if it is said was likely to continue. give up on our athletes... will be there and we will be ready.”

The Barbados Advocate Saturday March 21, 2020 •23

P HOROSCOPES R O ARIES (March 21-April 19). While it's true S that repetition creates routines and makes things a part of you, repetition without focus is a waste A of your energy. The thing that will really make N this week better for you is a clear picture. D TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You'll apply your C skill to an activity that will in turn absorb you O more or less completely. Don't be surprised if this N makes someone close to you pretty jealous. It will S also make you very attractive in this person's eyes! GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You don't have to give up the fantasy life going on in your head just because the real world is calling you. Let them call. What's in your head is your own business, and anyone who would have you feel otherwise is dangerous. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Listening is love. Z You give it and you deserve to receive it. You can I tell when a person is listening to you as opposed T to thinking about what they are going to interject S the next time you take a break. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Are you afraid to let go? It's not as dangerous as you think, really. And how are you going to be able to play in a new des- tination if you are still tethered to the past? Cut ties. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Usually the idea of "consequences" is near and dear to your thought process, but lately something has changed in the R way you look at things. Why not you? Why not E now? Because really, who's going to stop you? X LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The conscious mind is always trying to keep you safe. Its basic modus M operandi is to fight for sameness. A niggling cu- riosity just won't let that happen. It will keep O pushing until you leave your safety zone to dis- R cover. G SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Forget about who A you think you should be. That's an unfair projec- N tion. Besides, who you are is better. Embrace and accept who you are and suddenly you can lead yourself much more effectively. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). As long as you take action, you'll be golden. Get it right and you'll have an adventure. Get it wrong and you'll have an even more remarkable adventure. P CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). There are H those who will disapprove of your belief in magic or anything else that's contrary to their system be- A cause this diminishes their potential to control N you by persuading you toward what they would T prefer you believe. O AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You're not in it M for the glory. You do what needs to be done and do it right. If a worthy candidate can step in and relieve you of duty, you'll go easily, knowing that the next purpose is likely to suit you even better. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Because you like someone so much, you're feeling inclined to share! This you will do without feeling that you M are sacrificing in any way. In fact, after sharing A with a friend it will feel as though you have R more. Y CBC TV CHANNEL 8 W O 4:00 TELE-CLASSIFIEDS 2:30 TOP GEAR 5:55 MONTH OF THE 3:30 CBC PRESENTS R DISABLED 4:00 COOK 30 T DEVOTION 4:30 CARIBBEAN 6:00 MORNIN’ FASHION H BARBADOS (R) WEEKLY 8:00 DR. WONDER’S 5:00 BAJE TO THE WORKSHOP WORLD (R) 8:30 THE ADVENTURES 6:00 RHYTHM & VYBZ OF TIN TIN 6:52 DOUBLE 9:00 ROCKY AND DRAW M BULLWINKLE 7:00 CBC NEWS NIGHT O 9:30 CHILDREN’S 7:30 CARIBBEAN MODEL T CLASSICS SEARCH H 10:00 FLIPPER 8:00 MEGA SIX 10:30 SE HABLA 8:03 Q TV E ESPANOL 9:00 DOUBLE DRAW R 11:00 GO HEALTHY FOR 9:03 TBA GOOD 10:00 GIPPIES KINGDOM G 12:00 REAL FAMILY TALK 10:30 SHUGA: LOVE, SEX 12:27 DOUBLE DRAW &MONEY O 12:30 T.P. PARKED 11:00 MOVIE O 1:00 LIVE UP 1:00 MONTH OF THE S 1:30 GREEN LIVING DISABLED E 2:00 TREES: THE DEVOTION SILENT SENTINELS 1:05 TELE-CLASSIFIEDS

Sol Rally Barbados, Flow King of the Hill postponed Page 17

Saturday March 21, 2020 ENSURE PROTECTION OF OUR FRONTLINE WORKERS THE People’s Party for The concern however was if Democracy and Develop- each of those persons were ment (PDP) has stepped adequately provided with forward, urging the current Personal Protective Equipment administration of Barbados (PPE) to ensure their safety to ensure that frontline while carrying out their various workers of the island are duties. cared for and properly “We as an opposition grouping protected against the believe that we need to ensure COVID-19 virus. that our frontline workers, our These concerns were raised military, immigration, customs, yesterday at a press conference nurses, medical staff, at the Worthing Corporate police and defence force are Centre hosted by the PDP, properly protected because of with members, spokesperson being on the frontline,” said for Health, Wellness and Gibson. Environment Paul Gibson, Not only those on the frontline Reverend Paul Leacock, the are to be cared for said Gibson, spokesperson for Social Care but also the homeless and less and Ethical Matters and fortunate of the island. spokesperson for Agriculture “We are also very concerned Reverend John Carter present. about the indigent and the Gibson explained that as a party, homeless. They need to know they saw the necessity to put on where to go, they need to know the table what had been what protective procedures and identified as areas the methodologies are available for government should take a look that grouping as they are at. very nomadic in behaviour, in Rev. Leacock contended that moving from place to place,” while the opposition party stood highlighted Gibson. committed to support the The PDP acknowledged that response of the government to they had received calls from Spokesperson for Health, Wellness and Environment Paul Gibson (right) of the People’s Party for COVID-19 this far, the party various people on the frontline Democracy and Development (PDP) contended that the government must protect the frontline must lend a voice to the problem expressing concern for their workers protecting Barbados from the COVID-19 pandemic. To his left is Reverend Paul Leacock, so that every measure that can safety and moved to aid some of the spokesperson for Social Care and Ethical Matters, and spokesperson for Agriculture be taken, is taken for the safety those in need with equipment Reverend John Carter. and security of the people. and will continue to work Gibson went on to thank all the towards helping anyone who sented in order to throw must not be viewed as spoken or of our nation which has been members of the medical force reaches out. more ideas into the pool to help elsewhere for partisan, political interrupted by this pandemic and those on the front line who The proposals by the PDP as but equivocally, not for any or personal gain but for the and now manifests itself were actively taking care of explained by Gibson and Rev. political gain. preservation of the lives of within our borders,” reiterated Barbadians and visitors alike. Leacock were discussed and pre- “Our recommendations here our people and the progress Rev. Leacock. (AS)

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