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Monday February 1, 2021 $1 VAT Inclusive Reverend: THUMBS UP TO Mission of the Church PARAGON BASE must By Tanya Lightbourne continue AFTER nine days in ONE rural reverend is quarantine at the reminding Christians Barbados Defence that the mission of the Force’s Paragon Base, church must go on even Marcia Marshall only though the environment has good reviews is not the most friendly across the board. or co-operative. “My experience was This was the message really fantastic; it was of the Reverend Canon beyond what I expected,” Austin Carrington the retiree expressed to during the Sunday The Barbados Advocate virtual sermon at the about her recent stay. Christ Church Parish She had no regrets, Church. describing the The religious leader environment as noted that the Church is “comfortable and clean”; a place of growth, the staff as “pleasant and development, and efficient”; and the three- transformation and it is square meals a day as important to accept “unbelievable”. people wherever they Marshall returned to are on life’s journey. He Barbados from Canada on added it may be January 9, the first time necessary to achieve the since the COVID-19 belonging first before pandemic was declared. they start to test the While uncertain about believing. what to expect on arrival “Prejudice feeds at Grantley Adams aloofness and we can International Airport, she miss many opportunities however was certain that if we are led by her days in mandatory prejudice,” said Rev. quarantine would be Canon Carrington. spent at a government He emphasised that facility. Christians should not “I really didn’t know have time to compete anything about the with others, tearing facilities at Paragon and down others or being St. Lucy – I only heard disdainful of those people speak about them. different from them. Rev. And my husband and Canon Carrington also children kept asking if I said that the Church was sure I wanted to stay should be thankful for there and I told them I am the privilege of serving just going to do this… I Christ and those who are like to find things out for adding value to the myself.” Church even if they are Recalling the arrival not adding value by process at the airport as Marcia Marshall recalling her experience quarantining at the BDF’s Paragon Base. societal standards. being straight-forward, The Reverend Marshall said she filled vacancy. I said that Mr. awaiting an update from sandwich and thinking escorted to a dorm expounded that people out the relevant forms and Bostic said that he has a the facilities. She then that I was on my way to St. outfitted with about 20 are struggling with indicated her desire to plan A, B and C so I need handed me my form which Lucy, I decided to hold it well-spaced, neatly made personal issues relating quarantine at a to fit into one of those.And had written on it St. Lucy for later. But the driver beds; a washroom and to their health, government facility. I continued to wait,” she District Hospital, so I went in the direction kitchenette stocked with relationship, self- However,she was told that told The Barbados prepared myself for the behind the airport, and we coffee, tea, juices, and esteem, loneliness, the facilities were full. Advocate. long drive. were told to disembark cases of water. financial difficulties, “I said to the lady that I “But about 30 minutes “I boarded the bus with there at Paragon.” “I was really taken mental, emotional, and am just going to sit here later the lady returned other ladies and we each Greeted by a nurse, aback.” trust. and wait until there is a explaining that she was were given a sub- Marshall said they were THUMBS UP on Page 3 CHURCH on Page 2 2 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Barbadian pushing social online learning BARBADIAN living abroad, Terry create a learning network. The easy to help bridge the divide created by children explained that the social media network Marshall, believes that his social navigate platform was the brainchild of not physically attending schools. had the standard online security, but media learning platform is a useful founder Marshall and he explained to Noting that one of the challenges being that there was a unique student code and easy-to-use additional tool The Barbados Advocate that he realised experienced locally was difficulty in which parents would have access to, in which will help students and there was a dire need for such a platform navigating Google Classroom and other order to monitor the interactions of the teachers adapt better to online in these times. platforms, Marshall said that Educated child on the platform. On the cards as schooling. Marshall, who went to Harrison Socially dealt with that hurdle by well is for teachers to provide their Educated Socially was officially College (Class of 2005) stated in the marrying social media and education. credentials in order to have an account launched in the United States on interview that he believes that Educated “We are using the benefit of normal and be an educator on the online January 8, 2021 with the goal of creating Socially could provide a possible solution social media interaction. The education learning tool. a space for students and teachers alike to to the online schooling in Barbados with feed looks like your Facebook feed, people The Barbadian reiterated that he did be able come together,communicate and his Peer 2 Peer learning initiative, to are used to these things. So it was a not understand why more focus had not matter for us to think of how best we been placed on this type of platform could join these two worlds together,” before but believes it was that companies said Marshall. always had money on their minds. As with social media platforms, “The issue that I see as why this has teachers and students will be able to not been done before is that companies create an account on are revenue driven, they have to think www.educatedsocially.com and establish about how to make money. What I have a space by creating a topic or subject done is that I said I wanted to do which they are currently studying. something for the good of the people,” he Students would be able to interact with contended. others in their classes at school or The founder expects the numbers on students of the same study area but from the platform to rise but said that the different institutions, creating networks company is ready to scale up quickly to based on their subjects of choice. This address any large rise in numbers. style of study allows for students to study Marshall currently resides in the USA, with the aid and support of other with his wife Shelagh, his daughter Lily students, in order to master challenging and son, Clayton. Besides seeking to subject matter. Marshall hopes that bless others with his platform, he plays many educators and students in a pivotal role in Business Development Barbados would see the value and for DN Tanks. opportunity that the platform offers. “At DN Tanks, we specialise in liquid Marshall, who has a undergraduate storage across multiple applications degree in Civil Engineering and a (water, wastewater, Thermal Energy Masters in Geotechnical Engineering Storage and L&G). Our speciality is the from Syracuse University in New York, AWWA D110 Type III Prestressed has been living abroad for 15 years. He Concrete Tank,” said Marshall.

Barbadian Terry Marshall, living abroad, is reaching back to his roots to give back to his island in the form of a community education platform, Educated Socially.

Reverend Canon Austin Carrington of the Christ Church Parish Church shared the message that the mission of the church must go on during his sermon on Rapid, PCR testing services now Sunday. available at Wildey Gymnasium ‘People are dealing THE Ministry of Health and Wellness not be accepted, and therefore, persons has advised that all services related to will be required to pay using credit or rapid and PCR testing, which were pre- debit cards. viously carried out at the Best-dos Santos In addition to the new testing facility with personal issues’ Public Health Laboratory, will now be at the Wildey Gymnasium, screening for available at the Wildey Gymnasium. COVID-19 continues daily from 8:30 a.m. CHURCH from Front Page and understand, to help and build up, The new testing site will be opened to until 4:30 p.m. at the Branford Taitt, He suggested that Christians should that is the role of the pastor,” said Rev. the public from Monday,February 1, from Eunice Gibson and Winston Scott become “pastors” while not becoming Canon Carrington. 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Polyclinics. counsellors, a difficult role and it requires He said that it must be a collaborative Additionally, there will be a fee of BDS Members of the public are reminded training. effort of pastors and ministers as they are $100 for the rapid testing of outbound that all polyclinics will continue to pro- “(A) pastor is the one who cares, who all part of the team which is working for travellers to the United Kingdom and vide urgent care and emergency services listens, the one who empathises with the Jesus Christ by making him known by the United States of America. Cash will only, in addition to COVID-19 screening. people, the one who seeks to encourage Word and deed. The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 3

Rotaract Club of Barbados continues to be creative CREATIVITY amidst the COVID-19 pandemic remains the name of the game as the Rotaract Club of Barbados readies itself to celebrate its fifth anniversary. Chartered on February 3, 2016 out of the need by the Rotary Club of Barbados to have a community-based service organisation, what is essentially the youth arm of the established charity organisation has been moving from strength to strength over the years. In a recent interview with The Barbados Advocate, President Rashida Prescod shed some light on the organisation’s operations on the ground in Barbados. Noting that they were geared traditionally The Rotaract Club of Barbados continues to be creative and keep themselves in the community despite the COVID-19 pandemic. towards young professionals, President chartered in Charlotte, other vocations and get to well supported by the project. Essentially what But at the same time it has Prescod stated that Rotary North Carolina back in talk to persons that they public. We collected over a we have done is opened it put us in a position where had been doing community 1968, the movement has may not have been able to thousand books and to children between the we have to look at the value work for a while, but there grown to over 10 000 clubs because there is a donated them to primary ages of eight and 11, based that we are offering any was void that needed to be in 180 countries with four professional aspect of schools and the Barbados on the school that they go partnerships that we filled by new blood. “They in Barbados. With the Rotaract.We focus not only Professional Women’s to and they would submit a endeavour to take on with saw a need for young Rotaract Club of Barbados on service, but on shelter.We remodelled the story to us for publishing in corporate Barbados. persons, at that point in involved in community developing our members library at Luther Thorne a book.And it will be a book Looking at how we are time, between the ages of projects ranging from and making them well- at the end of that year.” written by children for going to help them and how 18 and 30 to have an outlet beach clean-ups and visits rounded individuals. So we Prescod said before adding children,” she said noting will they be able to help us to be able to serve and to to children’s homes to have professional that the book drive was that they had received in terms of the projects that make changes within the feeding the homeless in development aspects of to repeated in 2019 and submissions from we work on. Yes, we have community and within our volunteering time for as well.” augmented to include a Barbados, Uganda, had to scale back and, in world at that level. dollar-drives for In more recent times, research project Jamaica and the Bahamas. some instances, cancel Rotaract now is about the Endometriosis and they have also taken a long, which benefited Luther With many of the projects because of the experience that you want Polycystic Ovary hard look at literacy and Thorne and St. Paul’s outreach programmes Corona situation. We do to have as part of your Syndrome, Prescod launched a programme Primary. affected by the movement have to make sure that we service organisation. So we highlighted a few of their which has benefited With the COVID-19 of the pandemic, Prescod take the health and safety have a lot of younger flagship initiatives which several hundred persons. pandemic sparing no explained that it had forced of everyone involved as persons so we do a lot more include a networking event “We also focus on literacy organisation or institution, them to be creative with priority one. While we do work on the ground and get called ‘Signature’ which so we have been running a Prescod revealed that this their execution of projects. have initiatives that we our hands a bit more dirty evolved into something programme called ‘Once year’s literacy initiative “It has made us creative had put forward, we have than sometimes the more. Upon a Time’. The first had to take on a different because the response from had to significantly scale Rotarians would have “It was a networking year we had it was in 2018 form this year. “What we corporate Barbados is not them back because the done.” event for young and we had a big book took the opportunity to do necessarily what it would funding is not there,” she Since the first club was professionals to get to know drive and that was really was have a young writer’s have been in prior years. said. ‘Barbados is a step ahead of some big nations’ THUMBS UP from Front – it was always a nice “I would say to Bajans arriving on island, and visitors whose the men and women on the Page serving. And the meals coming home and even Marshall’s second test was frustrations mounted frontline, “I really want to were prepared according visitors to check out the administered on day two. waiting for word on their salute the BDF,the nurses, A typical day at Paragon to if you had any allergies, facility for yourself – don’t However, due to the COVID-19 status, some in but special thanks to “The lovely thing about or vegetarian,” she go by hear-say,” she urged, backlog of COVID-19 PCR quarantine for over ten Nurses Springer, Lashley Paragon is that it’s such a explained. further explaining, “If you tests at testing facilities, days. and Layne as well as the large property… So, on Marshall went on to had to pay for a hotel room, this impacted the return “They had to get Mr. ancillary staff – everyone mornings I would have my elaborate that as the days and then to buy meals, of the results in the Hart and the Police… working together, beyond walk and then shower and went by, she never once there is no way that you promised 24 to 48 hours. these persons were just the call of duty to make then have breakfast,” she second-guessed her would be buying three full Not deterred, Marshall speaking their minds and sure our stay was said. decision. In fact, she balanced meals a day. said, “It was just a matter were ready to go. And I comfortable.” Meals provided at the couldn’t have imagined And I can also of re-adjusting your mind guess if they didn’t do that Furthermore, she BDF’s Christ Church base, being restricted to a hotel remember a couple folks and just telling yourself persons like myself expressed, “We have a lot according to Marshall room for such a long time. who joined us at the enjoy the stay. But I chose probably would have to be grateful and thankful were “well thought out, “I think I would be facility after they couldn’t to return home at that ended up staying much for. I think we need to stop well balanced, and very climbing the walls if I was afford to stay at their hotel time because flights were longer as well.” the complaining. Let us tasty”. just in a room and couldn’t any longer – and they were still available, and I Marshall believes continue to pray for our “Most mornings it was go out. I love the outdoors; greatly appreciative.” wanted to be here for my Barbados is a step ahead of leaders, and our nation something different – I’m a guider, I’m used to husband’s birthday.” some big nations with its and thank God for all bacon, eggs, sausages, camping… And the breeze Her Second Test This wasn’t the case handling of the pandemic. those who are doing their bake beans… Lunch and alone was just absolutely Having received a however with a few She also said that she part to help with this fight dinner were also full meals heavenly. negative test before disgruntled Barbadians will be forever grateful to of COVID-19.” 4 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

COVID-19 update: 22 new cases, 19 recovered TWENTY-TWO new The island now has 375 recovered, and the persons tested positive active cases. remaining seven inmates for COVID-19 in The 22 new positives are included in the active Barbados on Saturday, comprise 12 women and cases. January 30, 2021. 10 men. Five of the To date, Barbados has They were identified individuals are persons recorded 1 545 confirmed from among the 785 tests who were previously sent cases – 634 females, 911 conducted by the Best-dos to the Harrison Point males – and 1 158 persons Santos Public Health Isolation Facility for have recovered. There Laboratory on that day. assessment. have been 12 COVID-19 Nineteen persons were The 17 other cases are related deaths in reported as recovered, and all Barbadian nationals. Barbados as of January were discharged from The total number of 30. isolation. persons diagnosed as The Best dos Santos positive at Her Majesty’s Public Health Laboratory Prisons Dodds remains at has so far completed 102 362. Of these, 355 have 948 tests.

List of minimarts that are permitted to be opened during the period 3rd February to 17th February ST. ANDREW Belleplaine Supermarket, Belleplaine Sober’s Minimart, Shorey Village The Meat and Veg Corner Shop, Gregg’s Farm SSS Variety, Harewoods Road, Hillaby

ST. JAMES Hill Side Variety Store, Orange Hill Sonia’s Variety, Husbands Road, Mount Standfast

ST. PETER S&H Enterprises, Rose Hill

ST. LUCY Mobree’s Minimart, Pie Corner Fair Deals, Crab Hill Star Mart, Trents St. Elmo’s Minimart, Half Moon Fort MSC Minimart, Sutherland Hill (Checker Hall) Sobers Variety - Checker Hall – sells livestock feed

ST. JOSEPH Mumus Supermarket, Sugar Hill Cleavers Hill Supermarket, Cleavers Hill SKPNA Enterprises Minimart, Blackman’s Tenantry

ST. JOHN Venture Trading, Venture Palm Mart, Four Roads J’s Stop N Shop, Massiah Street 3Ds Minimart, Sargeant Street

ST. THOMAS Two Guys Minimart, Welchman Hall Bridgefield Variety, Bridgefield Melrose Variety, Melrose Rock Hall Variety, Rock Hall

ST. GEORGE A&S Minimart, St. Judes Newbury Minimart, Newbury Ellerton Mart, Ellerton Blenman’s Variety, Dash Valley Main Road, Dash Valley

ST. PHILIP Volleys Minimart, Blades Hill Marshall’s Minimart, Four Roads Provigo Mart, Wellhouse Chayreenies Ltd., Ruby Main Road

CHRIST CHURCH Fair Deals Inc., St. Patricks The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 5

Doctor offers tip to cope during lockdown BARBADIANS are being She explained that help them cope. professional help if things She added, “If you need should avoid overeating as told to take care of both during the previous “Do not be embarrassed get too difficult to handle. help reach out and help this could lead to their physical health and lockdown a number of to express your feelings; In that vein, she indicated will be there for you.” problems with their mental health during the people presented with don’t be embarrassed if you that the Ministry of Additionally, she is physical health. pending lockdown. anxiety and insomnia and have trouble coping. It is a Health’s community advising persons during Meanwhile, as it relates The advice has come after, she said, persons stressful experience for mental health services will the lockdown to exercise at to making the lockdown from Dr. Joy Sue, presented in increased everyone and different still be available from least 30 minutes daily.She easier for children, she is Consultant Psychiatrist at numbers with depression. people will cope at different February 3 to 17. explained that taking care reminding parents and the Psychiatric Hospital, With that in mind, Dr. Sue levels, there is nothing to “We have a mental of one’s physical health is guardians that creating a who is responsible for is urging persons to have a be embarrassed about, health clinics in each of the very important for mental routine for children is community mental health. plan for communication, about having mental polyclinics our services are health as well. extremely important, to try She made the comments explaining that it is a good health challenges, so I still open and will remain “Even though we like to to maintain as much during a press conference way of coping and relieving would encourage open during the time of the talk about mental health normalcy as possible in the on Saturday evening as stress. She explained it is everybody to speak out lockdown, with the and physical health, these situation. She explained she offered some advice to important that persons about those challenges,” exception of Branford Taitt things are interconnected, that this would allow them Barbadians on how to cope have someone to talk to she stated. Polyclinic, which will not they are not different to feel as if there is some with the upcoming two- express their feelings, but The Consultant be operating from the things, it’s health.” kind of stability even week national pause from she indicated that if they Psychiatrist is also polyclinic that is now Besides exercise, Dr.Sue though there are changes February 3 to 17, to help are uncomfortable talking encouraging persons, operating from the is adamant that persons and scary things in the fight against about their feelings, then including those in Psychiatric Hospital,” it must also maintain a happening around them. COVID-19. they can keep a journal to quarantine, to seek was further explained. healthy balanced diet and (JRT) Appeal for Cuba to be respected IT is hoped that the over the years and fatal novel coronavirus. In new Administration in certainly since the addition to the medical the United States will outbreak of the COVID-19 team that the country sent take the necessary pandemic. to Barbados in April of last steps to improve “These are our brothers year, he said the country relations with Cuba and sisters and these was pleased to welcome sooner rather than brothers and sisters have additional medical later. demonstrated their care support in the form of Barbados’ Ambassador and concern for us over doctors and laboratory to CARICOM and the and over again and specialists to give us Association of Caribbean especially at this time of further help in dealing States, David Comissiong, COVID-19. So our with the COVID-19 said the Caribbean region CARICOM Heads of situation. in general, is no doubt Government have already “They will be joining optimistic that the United sent a message to the forces with the 99 nurses States will see the good Biden Administration, and the one doctor that are that lies in Cuba and calling on them to remove already here, that in fact reverse the hard line this punitive blockade have been here working approach that was taken against Cuba and to with us over the past nine Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David Comissiong. with the Caribbean nation normalise US-Cuba months. And Barbados is in recent years. He made relations,” he stated. not unique, 14 of our 15 Ambassador United States to have been abandoned the point during a recent His comments came as CARICOM Member Comissiong continued, understand this. You many, many years ago.” interview with The he said that Barbados is States have benefited from “So, as far as we are know, we are bemused Comissiong is adamant Barbados Advocate, as he proud to be on the Cuban medical teams, concerned, Cuba is an that the United States is that the idea of behaving spoke of the invaluable receiving end of assistance helping them to deal with extremely valuable still fighting this obsolete, as though Cuba is “some support that Cuba has from Cuba in the fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” member of our Caribbean outdated Cold War; those kind of leper”, must be offered to the Caribbean against the potentially it was explained. family and, we need the cold war attitudes should totally rejected. Barbados records two more Covid-19 deaths TODAY Barbados suffered from pre-existing, shortness of breath. He often people do not even witness health officials therefore be difficult for recorded the first double chronic non- stressed that any one of realise they are working in communities them.” death from Covid-19 communicable diseases. these symptoms, or any experiencing symptoms to identify all persons with The Minister joined Dr. within a 24-hour period. Both were experiencing combination of them, because the symptoms COVID-19. Forde in urging Both deceased were shortness of breath for could be a sign of COVID seem mild and are Minister of Health and Barbadians not to delay, patients of the Harrison some days before seeking infection. The doctor frequently ignored or Wellness, Hon. Jeffrey but to seek immediate Point Isolation Facility for medical help at the pointed out that persons dismissed.” He proffered, Bostic extended help for themselves or a few days. The two Accident and Emergency with chronic non- “These factors and these condolences to the their loved ones when they Barbadians, a 55-year-old Department of the Queen communicable diseases latest deaths explain the grieving families. The start to feel sick. “And as male and a 64-year-old Elizabeth Hospital. were particularly importance of the medical Minister also commended usual,” added Minister female, died within an Dr. Forde called on vulnerable to professionals getting into Dr. Forde and the entire Bostic, “I remind hour of each other this Barbadians not to self- complications of COVID- the communities in order team at Harrison Point for Barbadians not to let their morning. diagnose or ignore signs 19. He stressed that to identify and save those their efforts in what he guard down around family Dr. Corey Forde, such as fatigue; within households and persons who are at risk.” described as,“two difficult and friends. We create Infectious Diseases headaches; persistent family settings, persons Dr. Forde was referring to cases”. He said, “All lives risks of exposure to Specialist and the sinus drips; flu-like with these conditions the Ministry of Health and are precious and the team COVID infection for Consultant in Charge of symptoms; headaches; should be closely Wellness’ new, fights to save every single ourselves and each other Harrison Point, noted the loss of taste or smell; and monitored. community-based one. I know they feel it whenever we are not similarities between the changes in breathing, The Infectious Diseases intervention, “Operation whenever there is a loss. wearing a mask. Do not two cases. Both patients either rapid breathing or Specialist warned, “Very Seek and Save”, which will This situation would take that chance.” 6 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Mitigating negative COVID financial Restaurants impact in Barbados through accelerated digital transformation and large A BARBADIAN business development consultant and tech entrepreneur is Go digital! businesses implementing advanced digital technology infrastructure, to enable educating Barbadian citizens and local citizens as well as micro, small business owners quickly about what is and mediums businesses to implement possible is critical, but equally so is told: “Make alternative income and revenue getting the right tools into their hands streams respectively, as a way to with dead easy implementation.” minimise the negative financial impact To that end, starting on February 1, your case” of the pandemic and resulting the company was hosting a series of unpredictable curfews and lockdown weekly online “Digital Job Fairs”, to MAKE your case! implementations. educate Barbadian citizens and small That’s the advice coming from Minister This effort is part of a pre-planned business owners about the potential of of Energy, Small Business and Caribbean initiative focused on digital business, as well as let them Entrepreneurship, Kerrie Symmonds to accelerating regional digital experience first hand the cutting edge owners of restaurants and larger busi- transformation, called SMARTR technology infrastructure it has already nesses who are querying if they will also CARIBBEAN™, which seeks to put in place, for them to quickly activate receive assistance during the national leverage smart technology solutions digital revenue streams. pause. (software and hardware), combined The model which the company is Government being aware that the lock- with foreign direct investment, to implementing for citizens and down scheduled for the period February 3 elevate the digital competence and businesses, effectively will allow them to 17 will negatively impact some small economic resiliency of the region’s to move their existing business client village shops, vendors, canteen, food van private sector. relationships and social relationships operators, and other small businesses an- Barbadian Robin Belle founded online, maintaining and nurturing Robin Belle founded SMARTR JOINT nounced a plan to render some financial SMARTR JOINT VENTURE CAPITAL those relationships, while introducing VENTURE CAPITAL CORPORATION in assistance. CORPORATION in Wyoming USA in new high value services that they can Wyoming USA in January 2020. “I think a case would have to be made January 2020. According to Mr. Belle, collectively and individually monetize and I would advise those people who feel “In the US alone, E-Commerce (online to everyone’s considerable financial every Caribbean island by private like they are in those set of circumstances business transactions) increased by a benefit. sector initiative and stated that this is to do a little advocacy and come to us, and huge 30% in 2020, due largely to people “It is all specifically structured to their objective within the construct of let us see what is possible and if it is pos- and businesses being forced to transact ensure that the ‘little guy or gal’ is not their wider SMARTR CARIBBEAN™ sible”. digitally online during the global greatly disadvantaged by large Accelerated Economic Recovery and “It is true to say that through the Fund pandemic-triggered lockdowns. On top businesses and has an equal Development Initiative. Access and Trust Loans we would have of that, millions of businesses across opportunity to earn at a high level,” Mr. Belle also said, “There is an old lent assistance to hundreds of businesses the globe were forced to quickly get said Mr. Belle. Most importantly, he adage that says it’s not what you know, in the aftermath of the last lockdown. I comfortable with employees working further disclosed, the model allows both it’s who you know. I refute that and don’t take lightly the challenge, but ‘virtually online’ from their homes, the local businesses and citizens, to maintain that it is what you know that equally I have to proceed with which has not resulted in any decline in generate revenue internationally, not is the key enabler, because unless you caution. Because, even as everyone is productivity, but rather, the opposite.” just within Barbados, thereby know WHAT solutions exist and WHAT making a special pleading, the reality is SMARTR is at the forefront of new potentially pulling millions of dollars is the best way to leverage them for that government’s resources are also technologies and it is bringing the best in foreign exchange into Barbados’ optimal value extraction, who you know falling; tax revenues are falling because of the best to empower Barbadians and national coffers in the process. Mr. Belle changes nothing.” there is less tax take coming into the Barbadian businesses, to quickly and emphasised that the company’s More information about the upcoming country or coming into the coffers of the fully leverage the huge economic strategic business development model DIGITAL JOB FAIR and how to country as a result of the declining activ- potential of “Digital Business”. Mr. Belle designed for this purpose, can easily register to attend, can be found online ity,” he pointed out. continued, saying that “Of course, and quickly be implemented across at www.smartrbarbados.com/events. Minister Symmonds said Government would do its best to assist where possible but made it clear that there is a limit as Exploring the formulation of the app to what is possible. TRACKING from Back Page The formulation of the QR app and organisers and government to handle back-end dashboard was just one of any possible risk from clusters and He founded a web design and mobile many projects Douglas Sr has worked avoid super spreader events. It will also app development company but he also on while being back in Barbados. He be a cost-effective measure for had a keen interest in social media and has worked with the Government and governments, businesses, citizens and search engine optimisation (SEO). He its website on the national tree planting visitors. told the media he developed several project and other public sector agencies. Douglas Sr is aware of the power of products for American organisations. In He said since his return, he has been one company or even the government 2006, he continued working for other brainstorming to bring Barbados into a could have with this kind of tracking businesses and creating a start-up in modern era. data but he sees the greater good South Florida. He revealed that the idea for the outweighing any uncertainty about the He also led the creation of the QPass emerged when he visited a West new application. Douglas Sr said the GoldCube, which is an ATM that allows Coast establishment after the lockdown app is attracting interest in other people to sell jewellery and other ended last year. He told The Barbados regional and international territories precious metals to the machine in Advocate that he saw people writing and at the moment is awaiting approval exchange for cash. He noted it was the their names down as a part of the from the Barbados government before it first of its kind and the venture is taking contact tracing and realised that it could can be made available on Google and off across America. be done more efficiently. He came up Apple mobile app platforms. Douglas Sr “Intel invested $15 million into the with the product that gives each is promoting the new innovation on company and now we are scaling up in individual a unique QR code that social media, Instagram producing these ATMs all across the contains their contact details and not @qpassbarbados and his website, United States,” said Douglas Sr. only will track when they enter any www.qpassbarbados.com. He noted that this work was what he points-of-entry, their time of arrival and was doing up to the summer of 2020. But temperature, but alert businesses if a What are QR codes? it was two years ago, Douglas Sr had person has a high temperature and alert A QR code or Quick Response code “is committed to coming back home for his individuals instantly if they were in a a type of matrix barcode first designed family and to give back to his country location where a COVID-19 positive in 1994 for the automotive industry in using his talents and business acumen. case had been reported. Japan”. It can contain data for a locator, Minister of Energy, Small Business The aim is to protect people while tracker or identifier that points to an and Entrepreneurship, Kerrie Creating the QPass App helping business owners, event application or website. Symmonds The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 7

Chinese premier chairs symposium China’s final consumption CHINESE Premier Li Keqiang on Friday scientific and democratic decision-making presided over a symposium for soliciting of the government, Li said. opinions on a draft government work Facing various challenges and uncer- accounted for over half report, as well as the draft 14th Five-Year tainties, China will keep its macro policies Plan and the Long-Range Objectives consistent, stable and sustainable, Through the Year 2035. Li said, adding that the country would of GDP in 2020 Li, also a member of the Standing step up reform and opening up to address Committee of the Political Bureau of the the needs of market entities and the CHINA’S Ministry of Commerce said on 15 percent year on year, making Communist Party of China (CPC) Central people. Friday that it has managed to stabilise it the world’s largest online Committee, heard suggestions on the Representatives at the symposium of- foreign trade and investments retail market for eight consecutive two documents from non-Communist fered suggestions on issues including tap- and boost recovery in consumption years. parties, the All-China Federation of ping the country’s consumption potential in 2020. Besides, officials said China has Industry and Commerce, as well and strengthening pollution control. Besides looking into collaborations and been working to boost international as personages without party Vice Premier Han Zhensg, also a mem- investments on a global scale, the collaboration through multiple ways, affiliation. ber of the Standing Committee of the ministry said domestic consumption and such as the signing of Regional Pooling wisdom from these groups on Political Bureau of the CPC Central foreign trade were top priorities for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership the two documents is conducive to the Committee, attended the symposium. country Agreement. in 2020. “China has signed the Regional The total retail sales for consumer Comprehensive Economic Partnership goods hit over 39 trillion yuan Agreement, the world’s largest ($6 trillion) in 2020, down nearly regional free trade zone. The country 4 percent year on year. However has also completed the China-EU the rate of decline narrowed compared investment agreement negotiations on with the first half of 2020, with consump- schedule, whichhas become an important tion playing a key role in China’s milestone in China-EUrelations,” economy. Qian said. “Final consumption accounts for China also said it will continue 54.3 percent of GDP, and consumption is to advance reforms to open up its still the rock of stable economic economy, through building a free trade operations,” said Vice Minister port and deepening multilateral economic of Commerce Qian Keming. and trade cooperation. Despite challenges brought by the The country’s actual use of foreign pandemic, China saw rapid growth investment in 2020 was almost one in new areas of commerce in 2020, trillion yuan, up by more than six such as online shopping and percent year on year. Imports and live streaming. exports have also reached record Officials said the online retail of highs in terms of scale and international Chinese Premier Li Keqiang presiding over said symposium. physical goods increased by nearly market share.

COP15 meeting on biodiversity under preparation despite uncertainties remaining due to pandemic: MEE

IT remains uncertain if Kunming, the Department of Nature and Ecology biodiversity is facing a severe situation, trend on global biodiversity, he Southwest China’s Yunnan Province Conservation under the Ministry of directly threatening human’s interests said. will be able to host the 15th meeting Ecology and Environment said at a including food, health and security. Cui said China’s ideas and advocacies of the Conference of the Parties monthly press conference on Thursday. The international society expects about the framework should cater to the (COP15) of the Convention on COP15 was planned to be held in COP15 could make an ambitious concerns to developing countries and Biological Diversity (CBD) due to the Kunming in September 2020, but was “post-2020 global biodiversity enforcing support to the developing global COVID-19 pandemic, a senior postponed to May 2021 due to the impact framework” to turn the declining countries. official at the Chinese environmental of the pandemic. authority said recently, noting During COP15 the Chinese preparation work is ongoing as government will hold high-level planned. meetings, and, as usual, issue political China and the Secretariat of the UN declaration documents and measures as Hungary first country in EU to Convention on Biological Diversity are the host country. still communicating and negotiating on The international society believes that approve China’s Sinopharm vaccine when and how COP15 will be held amid the Aichi Biodiversity Targets have not the pandemic, Cui Shuhong, director at been implemented as expected and global HUNGARY is the first EU country to the country having purchased 2 million approve China’s Sinopharm COVID-19 doses of Russia’s Sputnik jab – which are vaccine for emergency use and has agreed due to arrive in the country by the end to buy five million doses. of February. Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said “We can only make a choice between China kicks off anti-bullying on a Facebook post the vaccine would be Eastern and Western vaccines if we have delivered over four months and would them. If we don’t have them, there’s enable Hungary to vaccinate almost nothing we can choose from,” Orban said, campaign for schools a quarter of the country’s population. denying any political intention. In a show of confidence in the Chinese However, there are concerns CHINA’S education ministry has guideline noted. jab, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said he surrounding the approval of the launched an anti-bullying campaign for It also called for offering psychological would take the vaccine. Sinopharm jab. primary and middle schools across the counselling to bullying victims. “I’ll wait for the Chinese vaccine, that’s On Thursday, the government changed country based on a recent guideline. Schools are obliged to stop acts of the one I trust the most,” Orban said the vaccine approval process, effectively The guideline urged thorough bullying upon finding any such instances on public radio. circumventing the health regulator and investigations to find evidence of bullying and contact the police in severe “Personally I think that the Chinese, declaring that any vaccine could be and called for necessary measures to de- situations, the guideline added. who have known this virus for the longest approved for emergency use if it has al- fuse potential bullying behaviours in Schools should also offer in-depth time, must know the most about it. So ready been given to at least one million schools. moral, legal and mental health I’ll wait for my turn and if I can choose people. Depending on the seriousness of the education, as well as special training for I’ll ask for the Chinese vaccine.” Health experts expressed concern offence, students perpetrating bullying students to prevent campus bullying, the Hungary’s leader been frustrated by about the government’s decision and said should be subjected to disciplinary guideline said, adding that families the pace of the EU’s vaccine roll-out. The it won’t help the public accept foreign actions, reprimanded, warned, or should play a larger role in curbing approval of the Chinese vaccine is jabs, in a country with already transferred to special schools, the bullying. another step away from Brussels, with high- 8 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate ‘For the cause that lacks assistance, ’Gainst the wrongs that need resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that I can do’ Editorial WHO team visits Wuhan market Time to act! where first COVID infections detected WUHAN, China – A World city of 11 million. Public access to The WHO-led probe in THE damage which the COVID-19 pandemic has Health Organization-led “Very important site vis- the sprawling Huanan Wuhan has been plagued done to countries around the world, including team of experts investigat- its today – a wholesale Seafood Wholesale Market by delays, concern over small states like Barbados, demands action by the ing the origins of COVID- market first & Huanan has been restricted since access and bickering global community to come to the rescue of states 19 visited Huanan market Seafood Market just now. it was shut at the between China and the in need. yesterday, the now- Very informative & beginning of last year. United States, which Whether it is a case of providing them with soft shuttered wholesale critical for our joint teams Before its closure, the accused China of hiding loans and making the COVID-19 vaccines seafood centre in the to understand the epi- market bustled with hun- the extent of the initial available to help these countries counter this Chinese city of Wuhan demiology of COVID as it dreds of stalls divided into outbreak and criticised the global virus, swift action is necessary. where the new coronavirus started to spread at the sections for meat, seafood terms of the visit, under In other words there should be no debate on was initially detected. end of 2019,” team mem- and vegetables. Now it which Chinese experts this as small countries in particular face some The team arrived at ber Peter Daszak said on stands as a landmark in a conducted the first phase very uncertain times the longer COVID and its Huanan amid heavy Twitter. city that was traumatised of research. multiple variants continue to do damage on top security, with additional The WHO, which has as the original epicentre The origins of the virus of what has already been done. barricades set up outside a sought to manage expec- of what became the have become highly politi- Listening to Cleviston Haynes, the Governor of high blue fence surround- tations for the mission, pandemic. cised, and some Chinese the Central Bank of Barbados last week as he ing the market, and left in said on Friday that team On December 31, 2019, diplomats and state media itemised the wreck which the virus has inflicted a convoy after about one members would be limited after four cases of a mys- have thrown support be- on this country and its economy, was very hour. The experts did not to visits organised by their tery pneumonia were hind theories that the touching. take questions from Chinese hosts and would linked to the market, it virus potentially origi- Haynes revealed how our economy had plunged journalists. not have any contact with was shuttered overnight. nated in another country. over the last year by as much as much as 18 per Since being released community members, due By the end of January, The team had been set to cent, unlike anything that has happened in recent from a two-week quaran- to health restrictions. Wuhan had gone into arrive in Wuhan earlier in times. Fourteen persons have lost their lives from tine on Thursday,the team No full itinerary for the a 76-day lockdown. January,and China’s delay COVID with seven of those deaths occurring has visited hospitals and team’s two weeks of field Experts say the Huanan of their visit drew rare in January 2021. markets, as well as an work has been announced, market still plays a role in public criticism from the Faced with a desire to borrow to undertake exhibition commemorat- and journalists covering tracing the origins of the head of the WHO, which spending for COVID-related activities, the ing Wuhan’s battle with the tightly controlled visit virus, since the first cluster then-US President Donald country’s debt-to-GDP ratio has stormed from the virus, which included have been kept at a dis- of cases was identified Trump accused of being 120 per cent at the end of December 2019 to a 76-day lockdown of the tance from team members. there. “China-centric”. 144 per cent a year later. It can and will get worse. Unemployment has risen significantly. While the Governor could not pinpoint a figure when questioned about the numbers at his news Record 600,000 people in UK conference last Wednesday, the figures are enormous. The Barbados economy took a heavy toll as did some of our citizens who from Wednesday will be received Covid jabs on Saturday subjected to a new lockdown. There are many in our society who believe that this lockdown has Almost 600,000 people needed each day in order nerable. keep the supply going.” come too late instead of taking place in late in the UK were vacci- to meet the government’s Professor Anthony On the dosing regime, December when the number of COVID cases nated against Covid-19 target of 15 million Harnden, deputy chair of he said advice is that if started to spike. on Saturday, a daily first doses by February the Joint Committee supply issues make it We have to be more vigilant and more proactive record for the vaccine 15. on Vaccination and difficult to have two doses because in times like these the country can ill programme. The Midlands has de- Immunisation, said he of the same vaccine, it is afford to delay action. Uptake was particu- livered more vaccines was confident of the UK’s better to have a second How we go about recovering from the crisis will larly strong in England, than any other English vaccine supply, following dose of a different therefore depend on what we as a nation can do with almost 540,000 peo- region (1,533,699), fol- fears it could be inter- vaccine rather than no help ourselves and how responsive our people will ple receiving their first lowed by north-east rupted by the EU’s export dose at all. be to all the regulations and policies put in place vaccination. In Wales, England and Yorkshire controls and its demands Dr. Susan Hopkins, by government. just over 25,000 people (1,306,355). London for British-manufactured Covid-19 strategic re- However, there is also a role for the got their initial jab, along and the south-west have vaccines. sponse director at Public international community. We have noticed over with almost 23,000 in vaccinated the fewest, He told BBC Breakfast, Health England, said the course of the last several years that when Scotland and just over with 950,032 and “We’re progressing experts were looking unfavourable developments take place in the 10,500 in Northern 946,947 doses respec- extremely well in the at developing studies international arena we down here feel the Ireland. tively. number of vaccines in on receiving the two effects. In total, 598,389 vacci- The UK’s vaccine pro- this country, we’ve had doses from different COVID-19 has left a trail of death and nations were adminis- gramme has been 8.3 million first doses so vaccines. destruction in the United States, the UK, Canada, tered across the UK on in operation for seven far. “In some other infec- Europe, Latin America and Asia. Millions of Saturday. Of the weeks, since 90-year-old “These vaccines aren’t tions, we can see that is persons have died from the virus and significantly 9,468,382 jabs given in Margaret Keenan easy to manufacture, it’s often an effective strat- more are infected. the UK so far, 8,977,329 became the first person a complicated process egy, because it challenges However, small states are reeling and they were first doses and to be vaccinated, on involving a lot of batch the immune system require assistance. This is where big countries 491,053 were second December 8. testing and supply in slightly different and the multilateral lending agencies have to come doses. Currently only the four chains. There are bound ways,” she told BBC in. There is a role for the World Bank, The seven-day rolling most vulnerable groups to be some bumps along One’s ‘The Andrew Marr International Monetary Fund, the Inter- American average of first doses are entitled to their first the road. Show’. “That hasn’t been Development Bank, and the World Health given in the UK is now dose of the vaccine: those “I’m quite confident the studied for this virus or Organization among the others. 374,858. Based on the lat- over 70, care home resi- vaccine taskforce has for these vaccines yet, but Now is not the time for these institutions to est figures, an average of dents, health and social ordered so many millions we will have answers be deliberating about who is eligible for 401,512 first doses care workers and the of doses of different over the course of the concessionary financing or soft loans. The time of vaccine would be clinically extremely vul- vaccines that we can year no doubt.” for that has long past as the world is into a crisis unknown to all of us. Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes There is a crisis on our hands and now is E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen the time to act to provide the necessary Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan assistance. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 9 COVID- 19 deaths reach 350 in Jamaica KINGSTON, Jamaica – The toll to 350. from Trelawny. The cases were recorded in Westmoreland and St Thomas country has recorded 126 According to the Ministry of Of the 126 new cases there Manchester (23), Kingston and (two each) and Hanover and new cases of COVID-19 and Health and Wellness, the two were 45 males and 80 females St Andrew (22), St Catherine Portland (one each). two additional deaths. deaths include a 78-year-old with ages ranging from one to 92 (19), Clarendon (16), St The country also recorded 39 This brings the total number woman from Kingston and St years. The gender of one of the Elizabeth (15), St James (12), recoveries bringing the total of cases to 15,653 and the death Andrew and an 86-year-old man cases is still under investigation. Trelawny (seven), number of recoveries to 12,043. Guyana President: COVID vaccine will not be mandatory GEORGETOWN, Guyana – the World Health or not. It is not mandatory, but WHO, the European President Irfaan Ali has sought Organization/ Pan American I encourage everyone to take Commission and France in to assure the nation that Health Organization it. No resources will be spared response to the pandemic. It citizens will not be mandated (WHO/PAHO). and no stone will be left strives to ensure that people in to get vaccinated against In addition to China, he said unturned…we are aggressively all corners of the world get COVID-19. Guyana is also in talks with pursuing every avenue through access to COVID-19 vaccines Ali, who made the statement Indian and Russia on sourcing which we can expeditiously get once they are available, on Saturday during an address COVID-19 vaccines. vaccines and make them regardless of their wealth. to the nation, also According to the President, available,” Ali said. The Guyana Government is announced that the country Guyana remains a part of the Meanwhile, Minister of looking to close a gap in the will receive its first donation global competition to access Health, Dr Frank Anthony, country’s vaccination law that pledge of 20,000 COVID-19 vaccines and the objective is to maintains that Guyana’s main addresses adult vaccination vaccines from China. get a vaccine for Guyanese as focus for procuring COVID-19 ahead of the countrywide He added that while Guyana soon as possible so as to ensure vaccines is through the COVAX rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine. remains on the waiting list of that several individuals will facility. Guyana only has laws that several distributing countries have access before the end of COVAX is one of three pillars address vaccination for and agencies, all vaccinations the year. of the Access to COVID-19 children, no law was ever put President of Guyana, Dr scheduled to enter the country “The population will get to Tools (ACT) Accelerator, which in place for the vaccination of Irfaan Ali have been fully approved by decide if they want the vaccine was launched in April by the adults. UNDP wants Sexual Harassment Bill to include churches and children’s homes KINGSTON, Jamaica – A ‘children’s homes’, “which are and international circles. submission from the United the other types of residential “Coaches hold a uniquely Nations Development facility named under the significant position of trust, Programme (UNDP) is urging CCPA”. power and influence, the Joint Select Committee The submission drew the particularly in the lives of (JSC) reviewing the Sexual committee’s attention to the fact children and young people, and Harassment Bill, to expand the that most wards of the state are should be held to high standards range of institutions to be housed in children’s homes and in protecting those in their care. covered by the Act to include not places of safety and, that By naming this group in the Act, churches and children’s homes. children’s homes are more likely the law will draw attention to The submission suggested to be privately run institutions, the importance of this duty to that the Bill includes churches while many places of safety are protect both child and adult and faith-based organisations still directly managed by the athletes,” the submission said. (FBOs) and their places of government. The body also called on the worship and programme “For this reason, we suggest JSC to define the work facilities, as well as “children’s that children’s homes be environment, by revisiting and homes”, which are not included explicitly included under the ultimately incorporating a in the current Bill. definition and scope of definition for the work “We suggest that the inclusion institutions covered by the Bill,” environment, to ensure that the of the faith community in the UNDP submitted, noting as well policy applies to and explicitly types of institutions covered by that the requirement for covers informal work this law, sends the highest consent in relation to child environment and casual labour. signal of Parliament’s intent to sexual harassment victims The committee was having its ensure a harassment free should also be removed from the first meeting at Gordon House society and will assist churches bill. last week, following Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports, and other groups to strengthen The UNDP said that the Parliament’s Christmas break Olivia Grange their internal protective committee should take into which ended earlier this month. policies,” the UNDP said. consideration, as well, sports Chaired by the Minister of protected and defining the work However, with the deadline The submission noted that programmes, clubs or teams and Culture, Gender,Entertainment environment, as it continues its looking less likely, the minister while the Bill covers ‘places of their facilities, noting that the and Sports, Olivia Grange, the efforts to meet its deadline to suggested that they may need a safety’ as defined by the Child vulnerability of athletes to committee dealt mainly with hand in a report before the end weekend retreat to ensure that Care and Protection Act unwanted sexual advances has issues involving expanding the of the 2020//21 parliamentary the task is completed by the (CCPA), it does not include been documented in both local range of individuals to be year next month. start of 2021/22.

Mostly sunny.

High Tide (First) 06:33 High tide (Second) 18:33 London 03 Overcast Yesterday: 0.0 mm Boston -06 Fair Low Tide (First) 00:07 For the month: 126.4 mm Max: 29.8 °C Montreal -13 Clear Low tide (Second) 12:12 For the year: 126.4 mm Min: 25.5 °C Toronto -05 Cloudy New York -03 Overcast/ Light Snow Miami 24 Cloudy 6:25 am 5:59 pm 10 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

BVI announces Jamaica tops homicides in travel ban on Latin America South Africa, Brazil and the TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands – prevalent in South Africa and Brazil, a The British Virgin Islands has decision was taken that in addition to the Caribbean implemented a ban on flights from United Kingdom and the Dominican Brazil and South Africa in the wake Republic, to implement a travel ban on WITH recorded killings of 1,301 in 2020, of reports of new strains of COVID- persons travelling from South Africa and a new report on Latin America and the 19 emerging in both countries. Brazil to the Virgin Islands,” Malone Caribbean has revealed that Jamaica The announcement was recently made explained. now has the region’s highest homicide by Health Minister Carvin Malone. He however stated that the ban – that rate at 46.5 per 100,000 people. This is in addition to a travel ban on was implemented to protect the public InSight Crime’s 2020 Homicide flights from the Dominican Republic and from COVID-19, does not apply to BVI Round-Up released on Friday shows the United Kingdom that came into effect nationals, Belongers, residents, work that the island beat out Venezuela (45.6) on January 11. permit holders, diplomats and by just under one percentage point to Health Minister Carvin Malone government workers travelling from earn the unflattering distinction. yesterday announced that a travel ban these countries. The two murder capitals in the region has been imposed against travellers from The Health Minister reiterated that were followed by Honduras with 37.6, Brazil and South Africa due to new these individuals would be subjected to a Trinidad and Tobago with 28.2 and strains of COVID-19 in these countries. 14-day quarantine period once Mexico, 27. “In a most recent Cabinet meeting, in they travelled from the affected The report noted that United Nations light of new strains of COVID-19 being countries. Health Minister Carvin Malone considers any homicide rate of 10 per 100,000 citizens or above to be an “epidemic”. Jamaica’s total killings marked a marginal decline from 2019’s Mexican total of 1,339 murders and came as another welcome improvement over 2017’s sum of 1,647. telecoms Quoting reports from The Jamaica Gleaner, the document noted that while breaking from an overall decrease in magnate Slim “serious” crimes last year, shootings across the nation rose. Gangs in Jamaica returns and Haiti have been engaged in a deadly trade where marijuana is exchanged for guns. Boats loaded with up to 3,000 home after pounds of cannabis have been heading from Jamaica to nearby Haiti, where drugs are swapped for handguns and hospitalization high-powered assault weapons. Following ongoing efforts to target gang violence through the enforcement with COVID-19 of Zones of Special Operations (ZOSOs), MEXICO CITY – Mexican businessman States of Emergency and plans for mass Carlos Slim, one of the world’s richest trials last year, Prime Minister Andrew men, has returned home from hospital Holness called for citizens to help curb following a bout of COVID-19 and is the nation’s culture of violence. feeling well, his spokesman Arturo In his New Year message, Holness Elias said on Saturday. stated that as part of Jamaica’s long- During the past week, Slim had been term security plan, the Government getting medical attention at the intends to expand ZOSOs, while National Institute of Nutrition, a public modernising technology used by its health center in Mexico City. police and defense force heading into Slim’s son, Carlos Slim Domit, 2021. revealed on Monday that the telecoms Mexican businessman Carlos Slim magnate had caught the coronavirus, and was making a good recovery from returned home on Thursday, and was family controls America Movil, the what he said were mild symptoms. “very well.” Thursday was also Slim’s largest telecommunications provider in Woman shot and Spokesman Elias, who is also Slim’s birthday. Latin America, as well as a host of other son-in-law, said the 81-year-old had Slim is Mexico’s wealthiest man. His businesses. killed in church TRELAWNY, Jamaica – One church member was shot and killed yes- terday morning when a gunman en- Haitian Health Ministry monitoring tered the Agape Christian Fellowship Church in Falmouth and fired several shots during the usual Sunday morn- emergence of a ‘very infectious’ skin disease ing worship. PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti – Health Arcahaie. unsanitary conditions are fertile ground According to a worshipper, about 10:30 officials have been monitoring the The Government as sought to assure for skin disease such as scabies,” said a she heard explosions in the building and emergence of a very infectious skin the population that all stops will be government statement. later saw a woman falling to the ground. disease that is similar to scabies. pulled out in an effort to eradicate the Scabies has been described as an itchy “We were in the church singing and I According to the Ministry of Health, disease. skin condition caused by a tiny heard several explosions and saw a this skin disease has affected residents “An awareness and information burrowing mite called Sarcoptes woman falling to the ground,” she told of several communities in the west of the campaign for the general public and the scabiei. OBSERVER ONLINE. country, for several days. affected areas is already underway. It Intense itching occurs in the area The woman was taken to hospital Earlier this week, the Ministry of covers personal hygiene, the use of where the mite burrows. Scabies is where she was pronounced dead. Health deployed mobile clinics to areas drinking water, laundry and the contagious and can spread quickly A strong police presence was at the such as La Gonave, Petit-Goâve and treatment of infected clothes. Note that through close physical contact. scene of the incident yesterday. The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 11 Costa Rica sees ailing tourist trade stagnant in 2021 after COVID-19 blow SAN JOSE – Tourism to from 327,000 a year earlier, 8.5% of gross domestic product Costa Rica will likely underlining the challenge and 9% of formal jobs in the stagnate this year at the facing the popular tourist country of 5 million people. sharply reduced levels of destination and the Segura projected that in 2020 because of the COVID- industry as a whole in Latin 2021 it will only be worth 19 pandemic, weighing on America. around 3.5% of GDP and that the economy of the Central “Though the figures are the industry will shed about American country, a top better than those of some half the employment it government official said on competitor nations, many generated, or about 100,000 Saturday. companies can’t get going jobs. Tourism Minister Gustavo again,” Segura told Reuters, The minister was hopeful Segura said Costa Rica will in noting that the extent of that Costa Rica’s focus on 2021 probably receive about recovery would depend on how nature tourism would reduce one-third of the 3,139,000 the pandemic developed and some of the attendant risk with international tourists it had in how vaccination efforts people being outdoors. He also 2019, on a par with last year, progressed. pointed to the fact the country’s when some 1,011,000 foreign Battered by the loss of health system had managed to visitors arrived, official data tourists, the Costa Rican hotel avoid saturating its hospitals. shows. and restaurant trade shrank Costa Rica has to date In an interview, Segura said by 40% last year, the central registered 193,276 infections around 75,000 tourists came to bank said. and 2,604 deaths linked to People swim in the Celeste river waterfall at Tenorio Costa Rica in December, down In 2019, tourism represented COVID-19. Volcano National Park in Upala. International groups offer Mexico help to probe suspected migrant massacre MEXICO CITY – International DNA samples from relatives of organizations have offered to the suspected victims to help identify the bodies of 19 determine whether the 19 bodies suspected Guatemalan migrants are those of a group of migrants who were found burned and shot reported missing in the Central in Mexico last weekend, in a bid American country. to ensure transparency in the The ICRC and the EAAF have investigation into what helped identify human remains happened. in other cases in the United The Argentine Forensic States and Mexico. Anthropology Team (EAAF) and The EAAF assisted Mexican the International Committee of authorities probing a notorious the Red Cross (ICRC) said they 2010 migrant massacre in have offered assistance to Tamaulipas as well as the Guatemalan authorities and the disappearance of 43 student Mexican state of Tamaulipas, teachers in southwestern Mexico where the bodies were found in 2014. with gunshot wounds and badly Oscar Hernandez, a researcher charred. “The ICRC is holding for Mexican institute Colegio de confidential dialogue with la Frontera Norte, said that (Tamaulipas) authorities to see if migrants often look for ‘coyotes’ technical support... neutral, to help them cross into the impartial and independent, is United States, using the term for appropriate,” the ICRC told smugglers who are often linked Reuters on Friday.“(The officials) to organized crime. have the obligation to guarantee “Others are kidnapped, full identification (of victims) extorted and have their relatives Friends pray in the home of Gerardo Zacarias and his wife Maria Victoria Orozco, who fear transparently and quickly.” threatened,” he added. “That their daughter Paola Damaris is among the 19 bodies found shot and burnt in a remote part Mexican and Guatemalan could have happened in this of northern Mexico, in Catarina. authorities have so far collected case.” UK commits to maintain funding share of C’bean Special Development DURING a pledging conference to support projects in the most provision of tuition waivers, to benefit from the fund include their COVID-19 recovery. on 29th January, the UK vulnerable countries in the which allow students between 6 Haiti, Belize, Dominica, The pledged funding will help committed to maintain its share region to tackle poverty, and 12 years old to access Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Caribbean countries better cope of funding to the Caribbean inequality and global challenges primary education, have Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the with the COVID-19 crisis, help Development Bank’s Special such as climate change and supported over 260,000 children Grenadines, and Suriname. mitigate the wider social and Development Fund, pledging up access to quality education. to complete their primary This commitment follows the economic impacts, increase to £21m over the next four years For example, in Haiti, the education. announcement of £4.5 million funding to tackle climate to continue supporting life Caribbean Development Bank The fund is replenished every additional funding from the UK change, strengthen resilience to changing projects in the has worked alongside the World four years and the UK’s pledge Government to the Special disasters, and protect the most Caribbean. Bank and Inter-American cements its position as one of its Development Fund in vulnerable.(Foreign, The Special Development Development Bank to improve largest donors. September 2020 to support Commonwealth & Development Fund provides loans and grants primary school outcomes. The Countries that will continue countries in the region with Office) 12 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Captain Sir Tom Moore admitted to hospital with coronavirus

CAPTAIN SIR TOM MOORE has raised £38.9 million for NHS charities tested positive for Covid-19 and has after he pledged to walk 100 laps of his been admitted to hospital where he garden before his 100th birthday. is being treated for pneumonia, his He went on to break two Guinness daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore has world records – becoming the oldest per- said in a statement. son to get a No 1 single in the UK charts The 100-year-old, who raised millions of and raising the most money ever for doing pounds for the NHS, was taken to Bedford an individual charity walk – and was Hospital yesterday, after being treated knighted by the Queen. He also published for pneumonia for some time and testing an autobiography, “Tomorrow Will Be a positive for Covid-19 last week. Good Day”, and a children’s picture book, In a statement posted on his Twitter “One Hundred Steps”. page, Moore’s family said he had been On his birthday he received more than treated at home until yesterday when he 225 000 birthday cards and a bombard- needed additional help with his breath- ment of gifts, while in September the cen- ing. The statement said he was being tenarian signed a film deal to have a treated in a ward, not on the intensive biopic made of his life. care unit of the hospital. After the news of his hospital admis- The statement continued, “The med- sion, there was a flood of well-wishes. ical care he has received in the last few Boris Johnson tweeted,“My thoughts are weeks has been remarkable and we know very much with Moore and his family. that the wonderful staff at Bedford hos- You’ve inspired the whole nation, and I pital will do all they can to make him know we are all wishing you a full recov- comfortable and hopefully return ery.”The Labour leader,Sir Keir Starmer, home as soon as possible.We understand wrote, “The whole nation hopes you get that everyone will be wishing well soon.You’ve been an inspiration to us him well. all throughout this crisis.” “We are of course focusing on my father Michael Ball, who recorded the charity Captain Sir Tom Moore is in hospital with coronavirus, according to his daughter and will update you when we are able single You’ll Never Walk Alone Hannah. to.” with Moore, making him the first A spokesman for the veteran’s family centenarian to reach the top of the charts, ing after the war veteran, adding,“Hoping ened of the virus, saying he was “not a told the BBC that he had not yet received tweeted,“Love and prayers for Moore and for a speedy recovery and to see worrying sort of person”. a Covid-19 vaccine because of the medica- his lovely family as he battles this bastard Captain Tom back home with his family He added, “I’ve always believed things tion he has been taking for pneumonia. of a virus. Stay strong Sir.We are all here soon.” will get better. The sun will shine again, Moore’s fundraising efforts during the for you.” The mayor of London, In an interview with the Guardian in the birds will sing and we’ll all have a first national lockdown in April last year Sadiq Khan, thanked the NHS staff look- December Moore said he was not fright- lovely day tomorrow.” Portugal to send coronavirus patients to Austria as infections surge leaves hospital ICUs full

GERMANY’S military is to send medical staff to Portugal, where hospital intensive care units are so full due to a surge in coronavirus infections that patients are to be sent hundreds of miles to Austria. Portugal asked Germany’s government for help after revealing only seven of 850 ICU beds set up for COVID-19 cases on its mainland were vacant. “We will support Portugal with medical staff and equipment,” a German defence ministry spokesman said, adding that details were expected to be announced early this week. Portugal, which has reported 12,179 coronavirus deaths and 711,018 cases, has the world’s highest seven-day rolling average of cases and deaths per capita, according to figures. Germany’s military planned to send 27 doctors and paramedics to the country for an initial period of three weeks, as well as stationary and mobile ventilators and field beds for patients, Der Spiegel magazine Medical personnel work inside a COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit at the Military Hospital in Lisbon. reported. Meanwhile, Austria’s Chancellor Portugal. countries were in discussions. lives, adding that Austria has previously Sebastian Kurz said the country would A spokesman for Kurz added that the He said in a tweet that “swift, taken in coronavirus patients from take in intensive care patients from number was not yet clear and the two unbureaucratic help” was required to save France, Italy and Montenegro.

Barbados Advocate

February 1, 2021 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS IMF, DEBT AND COVID

ECONOMIST Marla Dukharan says that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is unlikely to abandon Barbados at this juncture. At the same time she is projecting that this country’s debt to GDP ratio is expected to increase by the end of March this year. The views by Ms. Dukharan are contained in her latest Caribbean Economic Report for January 2021. The Economist said that Barbados has access to concessionary loans and that IMF support for the island will continue, while noting that the country’s international reserves have crossed the US$1 billion (Bds$2 billion) mark since September. On the issue of debt, she said in the report that the debt to GDP ratio which reached 144 per cent by the end of December 2020, will increase to 146 per cent by March this year. That amount, she stated, will not decline to 107 per cent until 2025. Barbados has been forced to raise debt levels as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic which has created a demand for spending by the government. Dukharan said that the COVID related spending is also expected to be 2.5 per cent of GDP in the current financial year which ends on March 31, 2021. Economist Marla Dukharan However, the economist indicated that an increase in the Last week the Central Bank of causing it to contract by 18 per to the USA and UK visitor economic recovery,” Dukharan country’s extended arrangement Barbados gave its economic cent. Following the July markets which historically said. with the International review of the performance of the reopening, tourism, the island’s account for about 63 per cent of The island’s current account Monetary Fund (IMF) will Barbados economy in 2020. main economic sector long stay visitors to Barbados. deficitwas put at 8.3 per cent of provide financing for the newly Governor Cleviston Haynes plummeted 71 per cent and “The recent second wave of GDP for 2020 and projections lowered primary fiscal deficit discussed how COVID-19 had according to Ms. Dukharan the COVID and the lockdown will by the IMF are for that deficit to target of one per cent of GDP. impacted on the economy sector remained highly exposed make for a slower than projected be 7.3 per cent in 2021.

ECONOMY REACTION: SERIOUS BUSINESS: The story that is Guyana Gov’t to about Barbados Medical tourism adjust debt ceilings PAGE 3 PAGE 4 PAGE 6 2 • Monday February 1, 2021 Business Monday

Business Monday Monday February 1, 2021 • 3

The story that is about Barbados ECONOMY REACTION Analysis: Bruce J. Hennis now severely impacted the Tourism Industry. particularly during the economies of many nations fourth quarter, reflected ON October 28, 1966 around the world. This is The story as reflected the support from interna- for December, 2020) or ing this COVID-19 season, at 2.48pm, whilst clearly shown by the fact by the numbers tional financial institu- BDS$ 927 million, of the IMF has categorically debating the Barbados that the IMF has once Inflows from Tourism, for tions that was designed to which SDR271 million or explained that the respite Independence Bill in again had to increase its 2020 amounted to just cushion the impact of BDS$780 million (using will ultimately be followed the British House of levels of lending globally over $1.1 billion, an reduced foreign exchange the last exchange rate “by higher primary sur- Parliament, Dame Joan in order to assist countries; amount that was less than inflows from travel credits for December, 2020) has pluses in the medium term Vickers spoke, perhaps but this time these levels half that which was taken and foreign investment already been drawn down. to ensure achievement of prophetically, about the are now beginning to in during 2019. Of even and to help the govern- Therefore, as of the long-term debt target importance of making surpass those of the years greater significance is the ment close the financing December, 2020, in terms of 60 percent of GDP.” correct choices for when had to assist nations fact that the tourism gap created by lower of the total amount of What does this mean? economic drivers for impacted from the fallout inflows for 2020 are at revenues and higher Credit Outstanding with Essentially the govern- the island. “It has been of the 2008 Subprime levels not seen by the expenditures, including the IMF, per person in for ment will in the future, said that perhaps the Crisis: island since 1993. for external debt service.” each country’s population have to meet this stipu- country should not Unfortunately for This drastic decline is that has borrowed from lated requirement by rely entirely on sugar Barbados, which still has also reflected in the The Central Bank of the IMF, Barbados is either an increase in taxes production. not yet recovered from the fact that tourism, as a Barbados currently in the top posi- or a cutback in govern- One never knows, some economic tsunami which contributor to the island’s The Outcome tion out of 93 nations. mental spending, or synthetic product may hit it in 2008, this second economy, fell by a very What has been the Four other Caribbean a combination of both. come along. Nor should significant economic crisis significant 70%, leading all downside of all of this? As nations, the (tourism In other words, the road there be too much reliance has now, as at the end of of the other sectors into stated before, the original dependent) Bahamas, ahead will not be an easy on tourism. Tourists are December, 2020, seen the negative territory. The October, 2018 IMF Grenada, Jamaica and one, especially in light of very fickle and only a island record its largest sole exception was programme initially saw a Dominica have now also the fact that the island percentage of people can ever drop in its economy the agricultural sector. total of SDR208 million now found themselves could easily find itself afford to go to places like since the 1960’s. The resulting downward (around US$290 million or among the top 10 IMF bor- making repayments on Barbados. That number The previous largest pressure on the economy BDS$580 million) being rowing nations, per capita. its borrowed IMF funds may fall off,” she said. decline was in 1992 – how- has seen the government allocated to the island. up until February 01, The simple fact is that ever the decline for 2020 now being forced to rely on That allocation has The road ahead 2036, according to the IMF the entire world is once decline is thrice as worse. support from international now increased to SDR322 So from here what will Projected Payments plan again facing a monumen- The root cause of the financial institutions: million; the equivalent of things possibly look like? as of December 31, 2020. tal crisis of immense problem is the island’s “The increase in Gross over US$ 46 million (using After granting Barbados proportions – one that has extensive reliance on the International Reserves, the last exchange rate a temporary reprieve dur-

CBB Governor comments on Barbados’ commercial bank performance in 2020

COMMERCIAL banks Haynes, the Governor of creased moderately while rate to help ease the by reductions elsewhere, credit card indebtedness. and other entities making the Central Bank of profitability declined in impact of the pandemic. particularly the household However, the local up the financial sector Barbados while reviewing the face of increased provi- The governor pointed sector. mortgage market re- faced several elevated the performance of the sions, weak credit dem out that credit to the non- Almost half of the reduc- mained stable with only risks last year in light island’s economy in 2020, and and falling loan rates. financial private sector by tion in household debt was marginal growth in the of the pressing economic and making projections “Activity on the inter deposit-taking institu- attributable to lower credit union sector. conditions brought for this year. bank market remained tions maintained a down- on COVID-19. Haynes said that while modest and neither the ward trajectory. As such some of them commercial banks banks nor the smaller de- According to the Central BANK RATES will be reporting lower remained well capitalised posit-taking institutions Bank of Barbados’ top profitability althoughre- and highly liquid – they had to rely on central economist, the contraction Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of maining well capitalised. faced risks. bank liquidity support fol- in the banking sector business on Friday by the Central Bank of Barbados. These comments have He said that the non lowing the bank’s decision where increased lending come from Cleviston performing loan ratio in- to reduce the securities to utilities was offset Valid for February 1, 2021 Notes: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 Canadian Dollar 1.54194 1.58755 East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 Euro 2.37666 2.47674 Pound Sterling 2.68664 2.79976 United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 Demand/Sight: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.55072 1.58616 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.41153 2.46137 Guyana Dollar 0.00943 0.00949 Pound Sterling 2.72606 2.78239 United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 Telegraphic Transfer Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.55366 1.58616 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.41607 2.46137 Guyana Dollar 0.00943 0.00949 Pound Sterling 2.73118 2.78239 United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. BDS$ Guyana Dollar 0.00946 Jamaica Dollar 0.01351 The Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados said that while commercial banks remained well capitalised T&T Dollar 0.29578 and highly liquid – they faced risks. 4 • Monday February 1, 2021 Business Monday

EDITOR’S Medical tourism “Nevertheless, I will bring they migrate to the NOTEBOOK health and healing to it; I multisensory frame where will heal my people and spiritual light energies will let them enjoy influence our personalities abundant peace and and remind us that God is security.” - Jeremiah 33:6 Love. Gov’t urged Medical tourism is an MEDICAL tourism economic opportunity refers to travel to worthy of inclusion in the another country for development plans of to take action medical care. The warm-weather decision to seek services in reconstructive affordable convenient destinations. There is medical care overseas and elective surgery, accommodation for pent-up demand among to protect may be because of (1) detoxification and patients and their families high net worth and the lack of availability rehabilitation at the health care facility medically insured of quality of specialised programmes, spa and itself; (3) sharing individuals, a plethora of care at home; (2) weight reduction accommodations for the global health care our people affordable care; (3) the programmes, executive budget conscious; and (4) professionals available to need for a private, medicals and corporate homestay accommodation deliver state-of-the-art IT is time for the authorities to get tough with comfortable, tranquil, wellness and a series of to be in the company of services, and the prospect landowners who allow their vacant lots to be spiritual, convalescent holistic health and loved ones in a homely of continuing medical overrun with bush. environment; or (4) a longevity programs to setting. education in a state-of- This is something that has been going on for preference to return to promote and maintain a The ambience of the the-art environment. years. With the enormous amount of rainfall your home country to healthy mind, body and surroundings is important What is needed is to witnessed towards the end of 2020 and a fair your familiar spirit. to an optimal convalescent carefully delineate the amount last month these lots have been overtaken physicians, Accommodation choices process. Restoring health value proposition and by bush grass and whatever else. comprehensive in medical tourism include and extending life beyond access smart marketing As such, the areas have become a haven for medical records, and a (1) five star luxury the five sensory body and and investment partners. rodents, insects, flies and the most dreaded of all, holistic health care accommodation with golf, mind frame of sight, A Caribbean success of mosquitoes which are causing dengue in our midst. setting. tennis and related special hearing, taste, smell, and medical tourism is the It is noted that in recent times the country has World-class physicians services for celebrities and touch is of utmost Health City Cayman witnessed deaths from the dengue and as are attracted to centres of the wealthy where importance especially for Islands health care facility something stated over the weekend, these medical excellence to exclusivity and privacy those who are conscious of located in an idyllic symptoms of this fever are somewhat close to those deliver state-of-the-art may be paramount; (2) their own mortality as setting at the beautiful of the dreaded COVID-19, which has made many south-eastern tip of Grand Barbadians scared given the upsurge in the virus Cayman. Health City since December last year. works closely with We have been reminded that there are laws referring primary and which provide for penalties for those not adhering secondary care providers to the rules to keep their surroundings and from around the world to properties clean. ensure that care is co- However, since Barbados is at the stage where ordinated and patient- enforcement of regulations remains lacking, there centred. Through high is a need for a new mindset in relation to these levels of specialisation and matters. Please, authorities, take action to protect data-driven business our people. practices, Health City’s tertiary care facility accepts patients who require advanced treatment or procedures that might otherwise be cost prohibitive, not FEBRUARY covered by medical insurance, or inaccessible within the patient’s existing network. Let us move upwards and onwards guided by these words found in The Salvation Army Song Book (number 742): “Light, life and love are in • SEVERAL businesses will from that healing fountain. All Wednesday have scaled-down I require to cleanse me and restore, Flow through operations in the new lockdown. my soul, redeem its desert places and make a garden there for the Lord I adore.” • All branches of (Dr. Basil Springer CIBCFirstCaribbean International GCM is a Change-Engine bank will be closed from Consultant. His email address is Wednesday until Tuesday next basilgf@marketplaceexcell ence.com. His columns week. may be found at www.nothingbeatsbusines s.com/basil-springer- • The annual general meeting of column/, the West India Biscuit Company www.stluciasimplybeautif ul.com on be held on February 12. www.facebook.com/basilg f and Barbados Today online newspaper). Business Monday Monday February 1, 2021 • 5

Alternative energy sector important WITH the Tourism take off in order to meet explained Haynes. Sector taking a solid 2030,” he said. The governor also hit in 2020, the Central Governor Haynes highlighted that the Bank of Barbados has explained that some of development of the recommended that the delays in the progress Alternative Energy there be a laser-like of Barbados becoming Sector would help to focus on alternative 100 per cent green energy make local industry more energy. by 2030, had been of a competitive. This would On Wednesday, the regulatory nature, but he be as a result of local costs Governor of the Central believed that it was a going down, hence Bank of Barbados, situation which was being allowing the island to Cleviston Haynes, taken care of. He stated compete at a higher level reiterated the importance that to achieve the on the global stage. of the potential expected target and for it However, central to contribution of to gain traction along the further reducing the alternative energy to the way, there must be vulnerabilities of the long-term significant focus. Barbados economy, will competitiveness of "I think there needs to be how the island adapts Barbados and net foreign be a laser-like focus on the use of technology in exchange earnings. trying to ensure that the everyday life. The Haynes made this alternative energy takes governor noted that the statement during the off. The monies that we innovation and outlook for 2021 during are spending on fossil entrepreneurial spirit the 2020 Economic fuels eventually would emerging out of the Review by the Bank. represent savings in pandemic demonstrated “This is something that foreign exchange. Rather the resilience of the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados, Cleviston Haynes. we have been at for a than spending a dollar in citizens during difficult while. We have set foreign exchange times. progress its digital efforts of the Central Bank said navigate this period, but ourselves some ambitious (purchase of fuel), you Haynes contended that including in banking, that he believed that also to prepare to be more targets for 2030 and we could potentially earn a to facilitate the growth of payments, tax collections, Barbados needed to use competitive in the new are already at 2021, so we dollar in foreign exchange business, whether small document management this period to ramp up its world environment. would need this to really in your savings,” or large, the island must and education. The head focus, not only to help (AS) 6 • Monday February 1, 2021 Business Monday

Andean Agricultural Forum proposes regional agenda to boost trade, exports BOGOTA (IICA) – Forum, organized by objectives would require Amidst the Colombia’s Ministry of the implementation of overwhelming circum- Agriculture and Rural incentive measures, such stances resulting from Development with support as tax exemptions on the the pandemic, from the Inter-American import of machinery and agricultural exports Institute for Cooperation inputs, in order to generate have withstood the on Agriculture (IICA) and “harmonious growth, shock better than total other organizations. which would allow for foreign sales of goods. The meeting brought accessing markets and Between January and together high-level improving the quality of life October 2020, countries agricultural and trade of our populations”. such as Bolivia, authorities, as well as exports Deputy Minister of Foreign Manuel Otero, Director Colombia and Ecuador representatives of the Participants from the Trade and Tourism of Peru, General of IICA, stated Daniel Rodriguez, increased their agribusiness sector and public and private sectors remarked that “efforts to that “international trade Manager of IICA’s agricultural exports by cooperation agencies, with identified key aspects that strengthen the Andean plays a strategic role for the International Trade and 2.32%, 3.51% and 5.7%, the aim of identifying would allow for boosting Community must focus on region’s food security and Regional Integration respectively, compared opportunities and intraregional trade and diversifying our export economic recovery, Programme to the same period in mechanisms for developing exports, as well as exports supply and destination fostering the availability of 2019. These figures and reactivating regional to third markets, namely: markets, but they must safe, nutritious and high- reduce the risk of confirm the key role of agricultural trade, as well harmonizing sanitary and also involve regional quality food, the generation depending on a limited agriculture and as identifying the phytosanitary regulations, integration, which is crucial of foreign exchange to fund number of countries, while agricultural trade for agricultural chains with streamlining customs in order to create humanitarian assistance strengthening economic recovery in the greatest marketing clearance processes, intraregional trade and and socioeconomic recovery intraregional trade. “This the Andean Region post potential in Andean simplifying procedures, develop regional value programs, and income public-private effort must Covid-19. nations. automating and digitizing chains within the generation for the focus on market access and To fulfill this potential, “I urge us all to take processes such as the agriculture sector”. production and business trade policy,strengthening countries of the region decisive steps as a region, acceptance of electronic Edwin Vásquez de la sectors, while fostering the competitiveness and must take steps to recover so that we can become a certificates, and conducting Bandera, Undersecretary inclusion of rural women implementing business lost markets, consolidate neighborhood that is open fewer physical inspections. for Trade Negotiations and and youth”. strategies that facilitate their presence in to agricultural trade and They also agreed on the Economic Integration of On the other hand, diversification”, he destination markets where integration, which could be importance of advancing Ecuador, agreed on the Daniel Rodriguez, stressed. they were able to increase the key to growth. I would the implementation of importance of developing a Manager of IICA’s The fourth and final their exports, and foster like to believe that health diplomacy strong and powerful International Trade and session of the forum will be diversification – challenges achieving a common strategies to prevent trade integration agenda to Regional Integration held on February 5. The that existed even before the Andean agricultural measures related to health, enable “CAN to become a Program, pointed out that conclusions are expected to pandemic, given the market is not that far off in safety and quality from tool for strengthening the it is crucial for the region to serve as input for the concentration of exports in the future; we can reach becoming trade barriers,as agriculture sector and implement a strategy that development of a regional third markets and the agreements to make this well as to improve driving economic and social would allow for recovering agricultural agenda for limited amount of dream a reality”, stated competitiveness, value- development in our markets in which its cooperation and intraregional trade carried Juan Gonzalo Botero, adding, political will, countries”. presence had decreased integration among CAN out in the Andean region. Deputy Minister of public-private partnerships Reinaldo Díaz, President and consolidating those in countries, taking into These were a few of the Agricultural Affairs of and the joint work carried of the National which it had increased. He account the context of the conclusions reached during Colombia. out by the Andean Agricultural Confederation also underscored the pandemic and the need to the Third Session of the Community (CAN). of Bolivia (CONFEAGRO), importance of continuing to reactivate the Andean Andean Agricultural Boosting trade and Diego Sebastián Llosa, stated that achieving those work on diversification to agricultural sector. Guyana Gov’t to adjust debt ceilings GUYANA – In a bid to The move to increase debt contracted, set at almost 200 percent regularize several issues the domestic debt ceiling plus anticipated new of GDP. In stark contrast, unearthed after assuming was influenced by several borrowing to fund the revised domestic debt office in 2020, as well as to factors, one of which is the government’s develop- ceiling would amount to facilitate new financing existence of a large ment agenda. less than 50 percent of for a transformative Consolidated Fund Importantly, these GDP. The above- development agenda, overdraft at the Bank of revisions to the external mentioned comparisons government has moved to Guyana, accumulated and domestic debt ceilings clearly depict that increase the ceilings for over the last 5 years. do not threaten Guyana’s Guyana’s current debt domestic and external Government is now long-term debt carrying capacity could debt. the Honourable Dr. seeking to remedy this sustainability, given the safely accommodate the Ashni Singh, Senior situation through the substantial economic proposed ceiling increases. Minister in the Office of issuance of appropriate progress made since the In sum, this landmark the President with instruments. However,if early to mid-1990s (when move serves to regularize Responsibility for the overdraft were to be the ceilings were last and accurately reflect Finance, tabled two orders addressed under the revised) and the country’s significant liabilities in Parliament proposing existing ceiling for robust economic outlook. accumulated over the last adjustments to the two domestic debt, a breach At the time of the last five years and ceilings. It was proposed would result. In addition, revision in 1991, Guyana’s harness Guyana’s debt- that the domestic debt government would require external debt ceiling was carrying capacity to ceiling be increased to the issuance of new set at more than 1,000 finance government’s GY$500 billion, almost 3 domestic instruments, in percent of GDP. In transformative develop- decades after the last future, to finance various contrast, the new ment agenda. This latest upward revision to policy initiatives, and to proposed external debt move is consistent with GY$150 billion, in 1994. stimulate development of ceiling would amount to the incumbent Additionally, a new the domestic financial less than 60 percent of administration’s sterling external borrowing ceiling market. Meanwhile, the GDP, using the latest 2020 track record of prudent of GY$650 billion was move to increase the GDP estimates. On the debt management in the Honourable Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the proposed, three decades external debt ceiling is to domestic side, when last course of safeguarding Office of the President with Responsibility for after its last increase to accommodate the existing revised in 1994, Guyana’s Guyana’s long-term fiscal Finance GY$400 billion. level of external domestic debt ceiling was and debt sustainability. Business Monday Monday February 1, 2021 • 7 Accountants warned over fraud expectations A FRESH argument warning them to reject the has broken out over consultation on how far the role of auditors in they should go to spot spotting fraud. fraud. An international Auditors have been standards body wants to fined and criticised for bad consult members on the work after the collapse of so-called expectation gap big companies like BHS – the idea that the public and Wirecard. expects too much from an Auditors test a audit. company’s accounts on a However, pensions sample basis to make sure advisor Pirc will write to they offer a sound view of the UK’s big audit firms a business’s health.

Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline

January 29, 2021

There was no activity on the Regular Market. Deposit Receipts Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $20.56 $20.63 $0.07 BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Friday January 29, 2021

LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK INDICES DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.02 $0.30 8,080 10,498 January 29, 2021 January 28, 2021 Local 2,447.81 2,447.73 0.08 BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 70 - Cross-list 933.43 933.43 - Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - Composite 596.44 596.42 0.02 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - -- - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES Barbados Farms Limited 22-Jan-21 - - - $0.40 $0.40 - $0.35 $0.40 1,000 6,561 January 29, 2021 January 28, 2021 Local 4,920.08 4,919.93 0.15 Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 28-Jan-21 - - - $4.10 $4.10 - $3.50 $4.30 10,000 5,500 Cross-list 119.19 119.19 - Composite 5,039.27 5,039.12 0.15 FirstCaribbean International Bank 28-Jan-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - $1.77 $1.80 2,000 261 MUTUAL FUND Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 31-Dec-20 - - - $0.17 $0.17 - $0.15 $0.16 465 6,710 January 29, 2021 - Dev Fund ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV CHANGE Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 18-Dec-20 - - - $0.57 $0.57 - $0.55 $0.57 1,600 2,427 22-Jan-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.1989 0.0060 22-Jan-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2673 -0.0002 -Value Fund 22-Jan-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6736 -0.0004 Goddard Enterprises Limited 27-Jan-21 - - - $2.17 $2.17 - $2.17 $2.20 26 7,880 22-Jan-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.5660 6.5660 6.5660 0.0118 22-Jan-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.1025 0.0003 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 22-Jan-21 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $1.78 $2.00 78 1,000 22-Jan-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0235 0.0002 31-Dec-20 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.5718 5.5718 5.4665 0.1391 One Caribbean Media Limited 27-Jan-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $1.80 - 375 31-Dec-20 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 1.0241 1.0241 1.0036 0.0415 31-Dec-20 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUNDm 1.6435 1.6435 1.6106 0.0168 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 22-Jan-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.76 0.00 22-Jan-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.68 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - 22-Jan-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.99 0.00 West India Biscuit Company Limited 27-Jan-21 - - - $31.55 $31.55 - $31.55 - 38 - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $20.56 $20.63 $0.07 $30.00 - 50 - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD - Fixed Income

* = Security is Trading X-Div Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size *+* = Security is Suspended GOB Series B 28-Jan-21 $60.00 $60.00 $60.00 $80.00 6,616 34,828 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 - -- - ** = Rights Issued GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 - - - - GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 - - - - NOTICES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. (BCSDI) have recommenced operations at our physical West India Biscuit Company Limited - Directors have fixed January 7th, 2021 as the record date for offices. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on February 12th, 2021. All persons entering our building must wear a mask and will be subject to a digital temperature check Goddard Enterprises Limited – Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the on entry to our offices. While we acknowledge that every person with fever may not be COVID-19 Company will be held on January 29th, 2021 at the Company’s Registered Office, Top Floor, The positive and that some individuals may present without symptoms, please note that any person with a Goddard Building, Haggatt Hall, St. Michael, at 5:30 p.m. temperature reading of 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) or over, as well as those not wearing masks, will be denied entry to conduct business within our offices. DIVIDEND DECLARATIONS Cave Shepherd and Company Limited – Directors have declared a final dividend of five ($0.05) We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding, however, we must emphasize that this is a cents per share to be paid on February 19th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on necessary step for the protection of staff and clients alike. February 5th, 2021. Emera Deposit Receipt - Directors have declared a cash dividend of sixty-three point seven five TRADING SUSPENSION (CDN $0.6375) cents per common share to be paid on February 16th, 2021 to Shareholders on record The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section at close of business on February 2nd, 2021. Registered holders of depositary receipts ("Depositary 4.01.3 and subject to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading Receipts") issued pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. February 2nd, 2016 among Emera, the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. and registered The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section and beneficial holders of depositary receipts from time to time, are entitled to receive, in proportion to 4.01.3 and subject to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading the number of Depositary Receipts held by them, respectively, a distribution in the amount of any cash in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited were suspended effective December received by the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. (net of any applicable withholding taxes) 10th, 2019. in connection with the Dividend (the "Distribution"). The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Kindly note that effective January 18th, 2021 the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. Barbados Advocate CBB Governor comments on Barbados’ commercial bank performance in 2020

Page 3 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS DRAKES: COMPREHENSIVE RESEARCH REQUIRED

BARBADOS would need to undertake de- tailed research of the US market if it wants to sell its sugar in the US. This advice has come from Attorney-at-law Pearlie Drakes, a former Barbadian Investment promotion officer who was based in the US. Drakes told Business Monday, that in assign- ing that research, there are at least three key areas which must be taken into consideration. The first he pointed out, is to determine what are the trade opportunities or constraints in the US mar- ket for Barbados sugar. According to him, “that would mean finding out whether there are trade barriers, tariffs or other duties that would stand in the way of getting the commodity there.” Second, Barbados must be competitive in terms of price before entering the market. “And in the third place, Barbados must be able Up to the 1970s Barbados shipped bulk sugar to the United States. However, those shipments were suspended and it was expected they to produce adequate would have been renewed. with the onset of the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI). That was not the case and a lucrative market for sugar volumes to keep servicing was lost. the market,” Drakes said. sugar industry,” he rea- market was revealed by highlighted as possible bulk sugar from Barbados per cent price cut for ACP “So if you can overcome soned. Indar Weir, the Minister outlets. are over. Barbados sugar exports to Europe these three factors, it News of the attempt to of Agriculture. Weir was also quoted at sold bulk sugar to the also dealt the industry would be a significant ben- sell some of Barbados’ Windixie and Walmart the time as suggesting European Union in across regional sugar efit to Barbados and to the sugar in the US retail were two US retailers that the days of exporting according with first the producers. Lome trade, aid and Up to the 1970s cooperation agreement, Barbados shipped bulk and its successor the sugar to the United States. Hennis warns Barbados could be looking at Cotonou Agreement. However,those shipments Those agreements cov- were suspended and it ered African, Caribbean was expected they would tax increases or a cutback in gov’t spending and Pacific (ACP) sugar have been renewed producing states. with the onset of the BRUCE HENNIS is the 2020 economic review ment will in the future could easily find itself However, a combination Caribbean Basin Initiative cautioning that higher presented last week by the have to meet this stipu- making repayments on its of factors including pres- (CBI). taxes or a cutback in Central Bank’s Governor, lated requirement by borrowed IMF funds, up sure from some countries, That was not the case government spending Cleviston Haynes. either an increase in taxes until February 1, 2036,” he some of whom have been and a lucrative market for could be on the cards Hennis referred to an or a cutback in govern- stated. given a free range to sugar was lost. for Barbados this International Monetary ment spending or a He also said that export everything under Drake could not say year. Fund’s position that combination of both,” he as at December 2020, the sun, to Barbados, what format would be In fact, Hennis of the higher primary surpluses said in the statement Barbados topped the list on the EU to end its used to sell the sugar since People Party for Demo- in the medium term to to Business Monday. of 93 countries with credit preferential arrangements there are distributors who cracy and Development ensure a long-term debt “In other words, the road outstanding to the IMF. for commodities like sugar import products from this (PdP), said there could be target of 60 per cent of ahead will not be an easy and bananas. region and then sell them a combination of both in a GDP. one, especially in light of (See Hennis’ full state- In addition, a decision by through the different commentary reacting to “Essentially, the Govern- the fact that the island ment on page 3). the EU to implement a 36 channels.

Printed and Published by ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC. Fontabelle, St. Michael. Telephone 467-2000, Fax 434-2020/434-1000 The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 13

Thousands join fresh Navalny protests across Russia

THOUSANDS of Russians have been taking part in unauthorised protests to demand the release of the jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. More than 4 000 people have been detained, a monitoring group says. In Moscow police closed metro stations and blocked off the city centre. Navalny was jailed on his return to Russia after recovering from an attempt to kill him with a nerve agent. He blames the security services for the attack but the Kremlin denies this. The opposition figure had only just ar- rived from Berlin, where he spent months recovering from the near-fatal incident. Russian authorities say Navalny was supposed to report to police regularly because of a suspended sentence for embezzlement. Navalny has denounced his detention Chanting slogans against President Vladimir Putin, tens of thousands took to the streets Sunday across Russia to demand as “blatantly illegal”, saying the authori- the release of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. More than 4 000 people have been detained, a monitoring group ties had allowed him to travel to Berlin for says. treatment for the Novichok poisoning, which happened in Russia last August. pulled some protesters through the lines place in eastern Russia. In the Siberian a Moscow court where a ruling will be Navalny has blamed state security of riot shields. Footage showed a stream city of Novosibirsk, at least 2,000 people made on Navalny’s detention. agents under Putin’s orders for the at- of people being escorted on to buses by marched through the city chanting A number of close associates of Navalny tempt on his life and investigative jour- riot police. “Freedom” and “Putin is a thief”. have been detained since last week and nalists have named Russian FSB agents Protesters then attempted to reach the Further rallies saw about 1 000 people others, including his brother and Pussy suspected of the poisoning. But the Matrosskaya Tishina prison where demonstrate in Omsk, also in Siberia, Riot activist Maria Alyokhina, have been Kremlin denies involvement and disputes Navalny is being held. and about 7 000 people protest in put under house arrest. the conclusion, by Western weapons Navalny’s wife, Yulia Navalnaya, was Yekaterinburg in the Ural region, The chief editor of a Russian website experts, that Novichok was used. among those detained at yesterday’s according to local media reports. specialising in human rights, Sergei Meanwhile, Russian President protest. She was later released. The OVD-Info monitoring group said Smirnov, was also arrested outside his Vladimir Putin has denied reports he is Ahead of the protests she posted on police had detained more than home on Saturday. News of his the owner of a vast palace on the Black Instagram, “If we stay quiet, then they 4 000 people at protests in 85 cities across detention, apparently over allegations he Sea, as alleged by Navalny in a video that could come for any of us tomorrow.” the country. They included 1 167 held in participated in last week’s protests, has gone viral in Russia and has been Police said the protests were illegal and Moscow and 862 in St. Petersburg. has been condemned by other watched more than 100 million times. Russian authorities warned that Late yesterday, Navalny’s Moscow journalists. Protesters played cat-and-mouse with the gatherings could spread the campaign headquarters announced the In Moscow,police have reportedly been police, getting up close to officers before coronavirus. end of the day’s protests and called on struggling to find space in jail for retreating to safety. Police snatch squads Rallies in support of Navalny also took supporters to attend a rally tomorrow at supporters of the opposition leader.

Trump names 2 lawyers to impeachment defence team

WASHINGTON – Donald Trump Montgomery County, outside of the White House. yesterday named two lawyers to his Philadelphia, from 2000 to “The Democrats’ efforts to impeach a impeachment defence team, one day 2008. president who has already left office is after it was revealed that the former Trump’s team revealed Saturday that totally unconstitutional and so president had parted ways with several South Carolina lawyers who bad for our country,” Trump adviser an earlier set of attorneys. were set to represent him at the trial Jason Miller has said. The two lawyers representing starting next week were no longer Castor is as well-known in him will be David Schoen, a criminal participating. Pennsylvania for a case that he did not defense lawyer with offices in Alabama Trump, the first president in bring as he is for any of the prosecutions and New York, and Bruce Castor, American history to be impeached that he brought. He declined to charge a former county prosecutor in twice, is set to stand trial in the Senate actor Bill Cosby after a woman went to Pennsylvania. Both issued statements on a charge that he incited his support- police in suburban Philadelphia through a Trump adviser saying ers to storm Congress on January 6 as in 2005 to say that Cosby had drugged that they were honoured to take the lawmakers met to certify Joe Biden’s and molested her a year job. electoral victory. earlier. “The strength of our Constitution is Republicans and Trump aides have A new prosecutor arrested Cosby in about to be tested like never before in made clear that they intend to make a 2015 after documents from her 2005 our history. It is strong and resilient. A simple argument in the trial: Trump’s civil suit against Cosby were unsealed, document written for the ages, trial is unconstitutional because revealing Cosby’s damaging testimony and it will triumph over partisanship he is no longer in office. Legal scholars about sexual encounters with yet again, and always,” said Castor, say there is no bar to an impeachment the woman, Andrea Constand, who served as district attorney for trial despite Trump having left and others. Donald Trump is the first president in history to be impeached twice. 14 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Iran hosts Afghan Taliban Israel to transfer 5,000 leader as peace talks stalled vaccine doses to DUBAI – Iran has hosted the political Naeem said on Twitter that the meetings leader of Afghanistan’s Taliban during had taken place “in a good atmosphere”. the past week, offering Tehran’s “The situations in Afghanistan, Intra- Palestinians own help as a mediator in peace talks be- Afghan negotiations, the full implemen- tween the insurgents and the Afghan tation of the Doha agreement and ISRAEL says it is transferring 5,000 population than any other. government that have become stalled Afghanistan’s & region’s need (for) peace doses of Covid vaccine to immunise Some 1.7 million people, almost in Qatar. were discussed,” he added. frontline Palestinian health workers. 20% of the population, have already re- Shi’ite Muslim Iran has been a foe of The United States reached an agree- Israel has one of the most advanced ceived both doses. More than three million the hardline Sunni Muslim Taliban for ment last year with the insurgents at ne- vaccination programmes in the world but people have received the first. However, decades, but has been openly meeting gotiations in the Qatari capital to with- Palestinians in the occupied West Bank the country remains under with Taliban leaders for the past few draw troops that have been in and Gaza have yet to see one. lockdown. years as the United States has started ne- Afghanistan since 2001. UN experts say Israel has a responsibil- The office of Israeli Defence Minister gotiating the exit of its troops from More recently, the Taliban and the ity for vaccinations there. Benny Gantz confirmed yesterday that Afghanistan. Afghan government have been negotiat- Israel says that is not part of agreed Israel would make the transfer to the Washington has accused Iran in the ing in Qatar to reach a peace deal. Those protocols and it has not received any re- Palestinian Authority. The Palestinians past of providing covert aid to Taliban talks resumed this month after an al- quests from the Palestinians. This is its have not yet commented. fighters against US forces. most month-long break, but negotiators first such transfer. Neither the West Bank, whose limited Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad and diplomats say there has since been Israel has recorded some 640,000 Covid self-rule is run by the Palestinian Javad Zarif met Taliban political chief little progress. cases since the pandemic began, and just Authority, nor Gaza, controlled by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in Tehran, Reuters reported on Sunday that some over 4,700 deaths, Johns Hopkins militant Islamist movement Hamas, has and told him that Washington was not a NATO troops are likely to stay in University research shows. There have started vaccination programmes. “good mediator” for the conflict, Afghanistan beyond the deadline set last been almost 160,000 cases in the Palestinian health officials say deals Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported year of May 2021, as the Western alliance West Bank and Gaza, with 1,833 deaths, are being negotiated for vaccine supplies yesterday. does not believe the withdrawal condi- the research shows. but it is unclear when they will start. Iran supports an inclusive Afghan gov- tions have been met. Israel’s special deal with vaccine The territories also hope to benefit from ernment that would include all ethnic New US President Joe Biden is ex- supplier Pfizer – Israel is providing vital the World Health Organization-backed groups and sects, Zarif was quoted as say- pected to take a close look at the with- medical data in return for a quick rollout Covax scheme, to supply vaccines to ing. drawal agreement negotiated under his – has helped it to become the country that poorer states and nations, but again Taliban spokesman Mohammad predecessor Donald Trump. has inoculated more people per head of timings are unknown. Thousands break rules to attend orthodox rabbi’s funeral in Israel

THOUSANDS of ultra-Orthodox mourners have gathered in Jerusalem to attend the funeral of a top rabbi, in breach of Israel’s coronavirus regulations. Rabbi Meshulam Dovid Soloveitchik, 99, died following months of ill health after contracting Covid-19. The country is currently under a third national lockdown, but police did not intervene to disperse the crowd. The scenes sparked backlash from deputy prime minister Benny Gantz ahead of a vote to extend lockdown rules. “Millions of families and children are locked in their homes and abide by the rules while thousands of Haredim crowd the funeral, most of them even without masks,” Gantz tweeted describing it as ev- idence of “unequal enforcement”. “We will not agree to the continuation of an ineffective fake lockdown. Either everyone is locked down – or everyone opens. The days of indulgence are over.” Relations between Israel’s power-shar- ing coalition partners, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the centrist Gantz, collapsed last month. They and their parties will now face an early election in March – the fourth in two years. Ultra-Orthodox Israelis, or Haredim, make up a key part of Mr Netanyahu’s voting base so the perceived double-standard about lockdown The leader was revered and had been head of the influential Brisk yeshiva in Jerusalem. enforcement has become a big political issue. ing social distancing guidelines – includ- nations to vaccinate its population. More However despite health data showing There has been clashes reported across ing by keeping orthodox schools open and than a third of the country’s nine-million protection is very high for those the country in recent weeks when offi- holding mass events. population have had their first dose and vaccinated, new infections have cials have tried to challenge groups flout- Israel has been racing ahead of other some 1.7 million have received two. continued to grow by thousands daily. The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 15

Myanmar leader reportedly detained following early morning raid

MYANMAR leader Aung San Suu Kyi now,we have to assume that the military it,” it added, referring to the army by its coup. “We urge the military, and all other has reportedly been detained along is staging a coup,” he said. official Burmese name. parties in the country, to adhere to with other senior officials, following The news comes after Suu Kyi’s party The general’s comments drew alarm democratic norms and we oppose any at- days of rising tension between secured a landslide victory on November from several Western nations, prompting tempt to alter the outcome of the elec- the government and the country’s 8, 2020, with the country’s new parlia- them to issue a joint statement warning tions or impede Myanmar’s democratic military. ment set to meet today for the first time. Myanmar’s military against staging a transition,” the statement read. A spokesperson for the governing Myanmar’s military has pushed back National League for Democracy told against the outcome of the election, claim- Reuters Suu Kyi, President Win Myint ing widespread irregularities, with ten- and other officials had been “taken” in the sions ramping up even more last week early hours of Monday morning. when a military spokesman refused to “I want to tell our people not to respond rule out the possibility of a coup. rashly and I want them to act according A day later, army chief General Min to the law,” spokesman Myo Nyunt told Aung Hlaing, arguably the most powerful the publication. person in Myanmar, said revoking the He said he also expected to be detained. 2008 junta-scripted constitution could be Nyunt told the AFP he was extremely “necessary” under certain circumstances. worried about Suu Kyi and President Win His comments, translated into English Myint. and published in the army-run Myawady “With the situation we see happening newspaper, sent shockwaves through the young democracy, which is only a decade out of the grips of a 49-year military dictatorship. Through the 1990s and early 2000s, Suu Kyi was one of the world’s most prominent political prisoners, spending 15 of 21 years under house arrest as the military refused to hand over power de- spite her party winning national elections in 1990. On Saturday the army released a state- ment claiming its commander-in-chief had been misunderstood, though the statement did not directly address fears of Western Australia state Premier Mark McGowan.. an imminent coup. “Some organisations and media defined the speech of the commander-in-chief as Australian city of Perth goes into snap they liked… without respecting the full text of the speech,” said an English trans- lation of the statement. lockdown after guard tests positive “The Tatmadaw [Myanmar armed THE Australian city of Perth has begun added. forces] is abiding by the constitution … a snap five-day lockdown after a security Leaders of other states and territories Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has [and] will perform its tasks within the guard working at a quarantine hotel have also been contacted and advised not reportedly been detained. frame of enacted law while safeguarding tested positive for coronavirus. to allow people to travel into the state. Western Australia – the state of which Australia has recorded nearly 29,000 Perth is the capital – had not had a case cases and 909 deaths since the pandemic of locally acquired coronavirus for ten began, for a populations of about months. 25 million – far fewer than many other The lockdown began at 18:00 (10:00 countries. Gunmen attack hotel GMT) and runs until Friday night. In recent months in particular, the Schools, restaurants, bars, cinemas and nation has taken swift and aggressive gyms have been ordered to close. actions to contain outbreaks at their Only essential travel is allowed and source, and it currently has a travel ban in Somali capital masks must be worn. in place preventing residents from People in the city of two million – along overseas travel. with people living in the nearby Peel and Earlier this month, Queensland’s MILITANT Islamists in Somalia have The militants targeted the Afrik Hotel South West regions – must stay at home, capital, Brisbane, completed a three-day been involved in a gun battle with despite the fact that it is in a heavily except for essential work, healthcare, food lockdown over the detection of a single security forces at a hotel in the capital, guarded area near the city’s main shopping or exercise, said Western case. Mogadishu. airport, the BBC’s Bella Hassan reported Australia state Premier Mark McGowan. Earlier this week, Australia also Al-Shabab said it was behind the attack from Mogadishu. A scheduled return of schools has also suspended a travel bubble with at the Afrik Hotel, which began with a car The hotel is known to be a gathering been delayed by a week. New Zealand after its first Covid case bomb yesterday afternoon. place for Somali government officials and “I know for many Western Australians in months was confirmed to be a more At the time of going to press it had not a local police captain said a number of this is going to come as a shock,” contagious variant. yet been confirmed how many casualties lawmakers and senior military officials McGowan said at a news conference.“We It has now reopened the travel bubble there were, but police said many people were inside at the time of the attack. cannot forget how quickly this virus can with New Zealand. Travellers to had been rescued. Footage on social media showed large spread, nor the devastation it can cause. Australia will be screened before and The group, which is linked to al-Qaeda, plumes of smoke rising across the city “Our model is to deal with it very, very after flights for the next ten days, but will regularly carries out attacks against the earlier yesterday. quickly and harshly...so that we can bring no longer be required to enter quarantine. government. The violent siege comes just weeks after it under control and not have community Until the Perth case,Australia had not A car hit the hotel’s front entrance and former US President Donald Trump spread of the virus as you have seen in had any locally acquired infection for the detonated before gunmen stormed the ordered the withdrawal of some other countries around the world,” he past 14 days. Its only infections had been building, according to officials and others 700 troops who had been supporting local added. in returned overseas travellers in hotel at the scene. security force efforts against militant McGowan said the guard may have the quarantine. “The blast made the hotel tremble as groups, including al-Shabab. UK variant of the virus, “We are told the On Thursday, Australia was ranked we sat inside and were talking. We were There are fears the withdrawal could guard was working on the same floor as eighth in a list of nations which had panicked, confused,” eyewitness Ahmed lead to further instability in the a positive UK variant case.” The guard responded best to the virus. New Zealand Nur was quoted by Reuters news agency country, which is due to hold elections and his family have been placed into and Vietnam topped the list from the as saying. next month. quarantine at a state-run facility, he Lowy Institute think tank. 16 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Mighty Amazon looks all but unassailable as Covid continues LONDON – THE earliest references up on the same period in 2019. Profits be- to the “one-stop shop” emerged dur- fore tax are pegged at $4.4 billion – shy of ing the first decades of 20th century the record $6.8 billion it made in the three as the fast-growing US economy months to September, but higher than spurred rapid retail innovation. A any single quarter before the pandemic. single location for various products It was only in 2016 that single-quarter provides obvious benefits: removing profits topped $1billion, but that’s the hassle of travelling around town because the Bezos strategy is to invest to visit different stores. spare cash in relentless, ruthless expan- Jeff Bezos redefined that logic for the sion and innovation, so that rivals cannot Internet age, making Amazon a domi- creep up on it. nant (and perhaps ambivalent) force first There are some potential threats to in selling books, and then in pretty much Amazon’s dominance, but they seem everything else. Before 2020 Amazon was remote.Alibaba, the Chinese e-commerce An Amazon fulfilment centre in New York. a phenomenon, but the coronavirus pan- group – which also updates investors demic has made it all but ubiquitous. tomorrow – has grown at a relentless Amazon’s growth has various avenues. ier for Amazon to incubate businesses in The numbers in its financial results for pace, but its founder Jack Ma is now in Its server subsidiary, Amazon Web sectors it has not yet cracked, such as the last three months of 2020, to be pub- a high-stakes political battle with Services, was created almost by accident, fresh food retail. lished tomorrow,will be even bigger than premier Xi Jinping. but is a margin machine that shows little That diversity also means that regula- Amazon’s earlier instalments in the There is always a chance (albeit seem- sign of slowing, given the pandemic-accel- tors are less likely to land a blow – al- first pandemic year. Christmas and ingly remote now) that Amazon, the dis- erated shift to cloud services. There are though the company’s treatment of ware- Thanksgiving always make the final rupter par excellence of high street retail, signs of success in its battle for the sofa house workers during the pandemic and quarter of the year the strongest for could be upended by challengers such as with its Prime video streaming service its undercutting of sellers with its own- Amazon. Christmas 2020 will mainly be Shopify,the retail Internet tech provider. drawing customers. And its store of info label products have drawn political fire. remembered for locked-down celebra- Some business models – Chinese social on what people actually buy – possibly the At the start of 2021 Bezos lost his crown tions, but analysts predict that it will also commerce pioneer Pinduoduo, for exam- most valuable data for advertisers – has as the world’s richest man to his space- mark the first time Amazon’s revenue ple – seem baffling until you see the en- quietly made it the third-biggest force race rival, Tesla boss Elon Musk. surpasses $100 billion in one quarter. thusiasm and the revenues they generate. in online advertising. The symbolism is probably misplaced: In fact, consensus estimates collated by And the pandemic has forced bricks-and- Diversified profit sources ease the 2020 showed that Amazon’s efforts to be S&P Global Market Intelligence are fore- mortar retailers to look online as well, pressure for success from each arm from the online everything shop will take casting sales of about $120 billion – 37% which could dent Amazon’s market share. quarter to quarter,and make it much eas- some beating. Elon Musk’s Tesla has reinvented the steering wheel

TESLA has reinvented the steering wheel for drivers of its new Model S and Model X electric vehicles, replacing them with what it believes to be an aesthetically pleasing yoke design. Described as “the ultimate focus on driving”, the stalkless steering yoke is the latest retro-futuristic gambit from Tesla since the somewhat bungled unveiling of the Cybertruck in 2019. The preview images of the design for its flagship Model S saloon have prompted a mixed response. Some admired the bold decision while others expressed concerns about how it would affect their driving – and some quipped whether they would need to pay extra for the rest of the wheel. The proverb “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” was never going to be engraved above the entrance to one of Tesla’s factories. It is now the most valuable car maker in the world, having broken most of the rules of how automotive companies should make money. Tesla ships far fewer units than its major rivals, but this year also managed to report a profit of $721 million (£528m) for 2020 compared with a loss of $862 million (£632m) a year earlier. The financial results cap a year in which Elon Musk – who owns 20% of Tesla has revealed a new yoke steering wheel. It has received a mixed response online. all of the company’s shares – overtook Bill Gates to become the world’s second games on the car’s computers and screens Tesla’s bottom line for the year was Still, its delivery of more than 180,000 richest man, and briefly overtook – with a back seat screen also showing boosted by $1.58 billion (£1.16bn) worth vehicles during the fourth quarter was a Jeff Bezos to become the world’s first a game. of environmental regulatory credits, record, though it narrowly missed a tar- richest, according to one report. The company’s stock has surged by which it is able to sell to other less get to ship 500,000 for the year as a Additional preview images showed the 700% in the past 12 months, taking the environmentally-friendly car makers – whole. Tesla featuring the game “The Witcher company’s value to more than $800 bil- and without these it would have Total revenues for the year rose 28% to III”, suggesting the ability to play video lion (£586bn) and surpassing Toyota. remained in the red. $31.5 billion (£23bn). The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 17

Barcelona embraces its wild side LONDON – WHEN Barcelona’s in- habitants emerged from a six-week lockdown at the end of April last year, they found that while the city had lain dormant, nature had been busy transforming the streets and parks into a bucolic wilderness. “The parks were shut, so there was no pressure on them from humans or dogs and no gardening was carried out,” says Margarita Parés, who heads the city’s biodiversity programme. “It was spring and it rained a lot more Insect-attracting wildflowers are being planted at the base of trees instead of surrounding them with pavement or grating. than usual. The result was an explosion in plant growth, so there were more landmark Sagrada Familía basilica, and be nothing.” think in terms of green infrastructure. insects and more food for birds.And there 49,000 square metres of “greened” streets. Francisco Bergua, president of the Doing the same thing in a different way.” were many more butterflies, as The city is also encouraging bird and in- Spanish Association of Parks and Public Parés says the new approach to they are a species that reacts very quickly sect life with around 200 nesting towers Gardens (AEPJP), says it is important gardening should be understood in the to changes in the environment.” for birds and bats, 40 beehives and around for people to see that rewilding is not just context of the city’s commitment to The Urban Butterfly Monitoring 80 plantings designed specifically as in- a policy of negligence. “No one looks at a conserving biodiversity with a policy that Scheme found that in May and June there sect “hotels”. The council has also flower growing in a stone wall in the saves water, energy,material and money, were 28% more species per park and published a biodiversity atlas listing all mountains as something ugly but the and is more sustainable. 74% more butterflies than the same the city’s flora and fauna. same flower growing in a city wall is seen She adds that there are plans to dig up period in 2019, including new species When it comes to embracing nature in as a sign of neglect,” he says. areas of asphalt in order to make not previously seen in the city its cities, Spain lags behind many coun- It’s made us look at how we live and the city greener, but in a city as such as the rock grayling (Hipparchia tries. But it is hoped that Barcelona’s new how we want to live. There’s no going dense as Barcelona the other option is to semele) and lesser purple emperor policy will go some way to rectifying that. back from here go up. (Apatura ilia). “In a city like Barcelona, it’s a case Barcelona is unusual among Spanish Architect Sergio Carratalá and his Once the gardeners went back to work, of replacing what exists with green cities in that it has its own parks MataAlta Studio have created a roof the question was whether to return infrastructure,” says Lorena Escuer, who department whereas most local authori- garden on an unusually large 19th-cen- everything to its neat and tidy state, or let runs Hydrobiology,a natural pest control ties contract work out.As a result, in most tury block situated near the old port. nature take its course? company,and has worked in Barcelona on urban areas the work is seen essentially Carratalá, who sees rewilding as a form The answer is neither. Parés says the a pilot scheme called Alcorques Vivos, as cleaning and maintenance rather than of deconstructing the built environment, council spent the previous two years which plants wildflowers at the base of nature conservation. has planted the roof with 10,000 native working on plans to “naturalise” or rewild trees in the streets rather than surround- “Some people believe that rewilding is perennials that are pollinator friendly the city – and was about to announce this ing them with pavement or grating. an excuse for local authorities not to carry and drought resistant, to provide flowers change of policy when the pandemic “It’s not just having a park surrounded out maintenance and cut jobs, but they’re all year round as well as feeding and struck. By the time the lockdown ended, by asphalt but introducing nature into mistaken,” says Escuer. “These spaces nesting places for birds. it was a lot easier to sell rewilding the city,” she says.“People need re-educat- need to be managed but not in the Rainwater is collected in tanks and the to a public craving fresh air and open ing. Their idea of a clean space is some- traditional way, which means gardeners garden is irrigated with pumps driven by spaces. where where there’s no life, where the have to be re-educated too.” solar panels on the roof.When the scheme The city is now in the process of ecosystem is dead. There’s this idea that “Naturalising the city isn’t the same as is complete, it will provide a vibrant slice creating 783,300 square metres of green nature is something outside and that making it a wild space,” says Bergua.“But of nature for the building’s more than open space, including an area around the what’s natural for the city is for there to instead of parks and gardens we need to 200 residents. Kerry: Current goals under Paris climate agreement ‘inadequate’ to reduce Earth’s temperature JOHN KERRY, special presidential state said, there was still time to do more but achievable. envoy for climate, said yesterday that the when it comes to climate change. Kerry yesterday again signalled his current goals under the Paris climate Shortly after taking office, President own approval of a carbon tax as an option agreement are not enough to achieve the Joe Biden took several executive actions to take on the climate crisis, something mission to limit the Earth’s aimed at the climate crisis and rejoined Biden said he would support during the temperature. the Paris Climate Accord, the landmark 2020 presidential campaign, when asked “The goals thus far have been inade- 2015 agreement the US abandoned if he thought the US could go down that quate... The goal of achieving a 1.5˚(C) under former President Donald Trump. route. limitation on the rise of Earth’s temper- The pact, signed by nearly all the world’s “Well, we could do it. It is one option of ature is absolutely the appropriate goal, countries, seeks to limit global warming many things we’re going to have to con- but the current promises of countries to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to sider and may wind up doing,” Kerry through the Paris Agreement, are insuf- limit it to 1.5°C. On the campaign trail, said, adding that he agrees with the idea ficient to get the job done,” Kerry told Biden announced a goal of the US that it is one of the most significant John Kerry, special presidential envoy CNN’s Fareed Zakaria on “GPS.” achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and things that can be done to have a rapid for climate. However, the former US secretary of climate experts say the goal is aggressive impact. 18 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Hilton Valentine, guitarist with the Animals, dies aged 77 THE Animals toured with Burdon in guitarist Hilton 2007. Valentine, who Based in Connecticut created one of the in recent years, he also most famous riffs in released music with his pop music in the band Skiffledog. 1960s, has died at the Burdon paid tribute to age of 77. Valentine on Instagram, The British band’s writing: “The opening version of blues opus of Rising Sun will standard The House of never sound the same!... The Rising Sun topped You didn’t just play it, the UK and US charts in you lived it! 1964. Heartbroken by the The Animals’ record sudden news of Hilton’s label ABKCO Music passing. described Valentine as a “We had great times “pioneering guitar together, Geordie lad. player influencing the From the North Shields sound of rock and roll for to the entire world... decades to come”. Rock In Peace.” North Shields-born ABKCO Music said: Valentine died on “Our deepest Friday,ABKCO said on sympathies go out to Twitter. Hilton Valentine’s family Valentine co-founded and friends.” the Animals in Our deepest Newcastle in 1963 sympathies go out to alongside singer Eric @HiltonValentine’s Burdon, bassist Chas family and friends on his Chandler, organist Alan passing this morning, at Price and drummer the age of 77. John Steel. A founding member The group also scored and original guitarist of six other UK top 10 hits Hilton Valentine The Animals, Valentine including Don’t Let Me was a pioneering guitar Be Misunderstood and Valentine left The split in 1966, but he player influencing the We Gotta Get Out of Animals for a solo career went on take part in sound of rock and roll for Bridge This Place. after the original line-up several reunions and decades to come. The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 19 SPORTSSPORTS Reifer, Da Silva shine on final day draw Lionel Messi: CHATTOGRAM, Bangladesh – All- with 46 to get West Indies up to 291 in 49. Barcelona to take rounder Raymon Reifer and Joshua their second innings. Resuming from their overnight 179 for Da Silva produced solid Left-arm seamer Reifer then picked up five at the MA Aziz Stadium,West Indies legal action after performances to highlight the final the only wickets to fall as the BCB XI, set lost Nkrumah Bonner in the day’s fourth day of the drawn three-tour match 389 for victory, reached 63 for two. over before he had added to his 80, caught against the Bangladesh Cricket The hosts were tottering on 14 for two at the wicket off seamer Khaled Ahmed forward’s £492m Board XI yesterday. after Reifer struck in successive overs (3-42). In the final warm-up before the first but opener Yasir Ali (33 not out) and And when Rahkeem Cornwall perished Test on Wednesday, Reifer struck an Shadman Islam (23 not out) consolidated for four just three overs later,West Indies contract leaked unbeaten 49 while Da Silva weighed in in an unbroken third wicket stand worth were tottering on 190 for seven but Reifer BARCELONA say they will take and Da Silva calmly pulled the innings “appropriate legal action” against Spanish around in an 82-run, eighth wicket stand. newspaper El Mundo after it published The left-handed Reifer counted five details of forward Lionel Messi’s £492m fours and a six off 94 deliveries while Da contract. Silva, yet to score overnight, faced 116 Barcelona denied “any responsibility for deliveries and hit three fours. the publication of this document”. They took the Caribbean side to lunch According to El Mundo, Messi’s four-year on 258 for seven but Da Silva, unbeaten contract was worth a possible 555,237,619 on 39 at the interval, fell inside the first euros until 30 June, 2021. half hour following the resumption with It means the 33-year-old would be a well-deserved half-century in sight. receiving up to £123m a season. Reifer missed out on his half-century Barcelona said in a statement that they too as West Indies lost their last three “regret” its publication, adding: “FC wickets for 19 runs in 36 deliveries. Barcelona categorically denies any New ball seamer Mukidul Islam, 20, responsibility for the publication of this grabbed two of the last three wickets to document, and will take appropriate legal finish with four for 59 while 22-year-old action against the newspaper El Mundo, off-spinner Saif Hassan supported with for any damage that may be caused as a two for 45. result of this publication. West Indies face Bangladesh in the “FC Barcelona expresses its absolute opening Test at the Zahur Ahmed support for Lionel Messi, especially in the Chowdhury Stadium here. face of any attempt to discredit his image, and to damage his relationship with the Scores entity where he has worked to become the WEST INDIES 257 (Kraigg best player in the world and in football Brathwaite 85, John Campbell 44, Kyle history.” Mayers 40, Alzarri Joseph 25; Rishad Argentina international Messi joined Hossain 5-75, Khaled Ahmed 3-46) and Barcelona at 13 but handed in a transfer 291 (Nkrumah Bonner 80, John request in August. There remains Campbell 68, Raymon Reifer 49 not out, uncertainty if he will remain with the club Joshua Da Silva 46; Mukidul Islam 4-59, when his contract runs out in the summer. Khaled Ahmed 3-42, Saif Hassan 2-45) BANGLADESH 160 (Mohammad Naim 45, Nurul Hasan 30, Shadman WTA roundup: Islam 22; Rahkeem Cornwall 5-47, Jomel Warrican 3-25) and 63 for two (Yasir Ali Venus Williams West Indies icketkeeper/batsman Joshua Da Silva, who scored 46 on 33 not out, Shadman Islam 23 not out; Sunday, the final day of their Three-day tour match in Bangladesh. Raymon Reifer 2-7) cruises in Melbourne Football: Messi scores 650th goal as VENUS Williams led a parade of four Americans advancing to the second round of the Yarra Valley Classic in Melbourne, Australia, yesterday. Barca get revenge on Athletic Bilbao Williams, in her first action since the BARCELONA – Lionel Messi and French Open, advanced after beating Antoine Griezmann fired Barcelona to Arantxa Rus 6-1, 6-3. The former World a 2-1 win at home to Athletic Bilbao in No. 1 and seven-time Grand Slam champ La Liga yesterday (Jan 31), avenging will face World No. 9 Petra Kvitova of the their recent defeat to the Czech Republic in the next round. Basque side in the Spanish Super Cup Also advancing were Americans Jessica final. Pegula, Shelby Rogers and No. 13 seed Messi curled in a free kick after 20 Danielle Rose Collins.Pegula stunned No. minutes for his 650th Barca goal on the 15 seed Kristina Mladenovic of France 6- day the club pledged to sue Spanish 4, 6-1, Rogers topped Fiona Ferro of newspaper El Mundo for publishing the France 6-2, 7-5, and Collins held off full details of the Argentine’s contract. Ysaline Bonaventure of Belgium 6-3, 6-3. The hosts missed several more op- portunities before Athletic levelled in Gippsland Trophy the 49th through a Jordi Alba own goal No. 13 seed Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia but Griezmann, who scored twice in the survived a first-round scare by rallying to 3-2 Super Cup final defeat, restored the beat Italy’s Sara Errani 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 in hosts lead in the 74th. Melbourne. Ronald Koeman’s Barca side saw out China’s Zheng Saisai, seeded 11th, was the game to record a fifth straight Liga not as fortunate, losing to unseeded victory and move above Real Madrid Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu 3-6, 7-5, 6- on goal difference into second place on 4. 40 points, 10 behind leaders No. 12 seed Caroline Garcia of France Atletico Madrid who have a game in Barcelona’s Lionel Messi (centre) in action with Athletic Bilbao players yes- and No. 15 seed Polona Hercog of Slovenia hand. terday. also moved on to the second round. 20 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

Inchcape, St. Philip NBA roundup: Blazers Land 4355 sq ft $ 96,000 win on last-second Belle, St. George Land 4 acres Damian Lillard trey $400,000 DAMIAN Lillard made a Buddy Hield had 18 3-pointer as time expired points but just three in the Haggatt Hall, St. Michael TEL 572-1452 to give the Portland Trail second half. Cel: 253-6319 Land 6336 sq ft $126,000 Blazers a 123-122 win Bam Adebayo had 18 828-4800 over the host Chicago points and a game-high 13 Email: Cane Garden, St. Thomas Bulls on Saturday night. rebounds for the Heat, caribbeanpropertiesltd Teammates mobbed who snapped a five-game @gmail.com Land 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft Private entrance. From Lillard after his step-back losing streak, which had $187,681 shot over the outstretched been the longest active arms of Bulls forward skid in the NBA. Butler, PROPERTIES The Mount, St. George Lauri Markkanen. Lillard who passed 10,000 career finished with 44 points on points early in the game, Kirtons, St Philip Land 6544 sq ft 15-for-26 shooting, had a game-high eight 3 bedroom plus $110,000 including 8-for-17 from assists, seven rebounds 2 bedroom apt beyond the arc. and no turnovers in 33 Land 4,790 sq ft $685,000 Shop Hill, St Thomas Land 11,735 sq ft REAL ESTATE Enes Kanter scored 22 minutes. Amity Lodge, Ch Ch $258,000 points and grabbed 11 rebounds for Portland, Houston Rockets 126 - 3 bedroom plus COMMERCIAL 1 bedroom apt Ragged Point, St. Philip which snapped a two- New Orleans Pelicans game skid and avenged a 112 Land 6,646 sq ft Land 8,267 sq ft Mount Standfast, St James loss against the Bulls Christian Wood scored $650,000 $166,000 Two properties on earlier in the season. Gary 27 points, Victor Oladipo 22,714 sq ft Land. 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Wood and Oladipo each reduced to $298,000 had 16 points during a 48- Fortesque, St Philip IN THE HIGH COURT Los Angeles Lakers 96 - point second quarter that Foul Bay, St. Philip OF JUSTICE Agricultural Land Black Rock, St Michael Approved for condos, CIVIL DIVISION Boston Celtics 95 came a night after the 3 bedroom, 1 bath 494,500 sq ft Land 39,242 sq ft (PROBATE) Anthony Davis had 27 Pelicans withstood a 44- Land 6732 sq ft $1,100,000 $1,600,000. points and 14 rebounds in point second quarter to $360,000 IN THE ESTATE OF ANSCELE his return from a quad defeat Milwaukee. John RANDAL BRUCE PAYNE Silver Sands, Dover, Christ Church injury, LeBron James Wall finished with 15 Christ Church DECEASED ALSO KNOWN AS Enterprise, Christ Church Hotel 18 rooms fully ANSCELE PAYNE DECEASED scored 21 and Los Angeles points, Eric Gordon had 3 bedroom, 2 bath Land 7,129 sq ft operational $2,950,000 neg survived a late rally by 14 and Jae’Sean Tate Land 5062 sq ft $160,000 FURTHER PUBLIC NOTICE is host Boston. added 13 for the $390,000 (reduced) Dalkeith, Christ Church hereby given that an application Kemba Walker missed Rockets. Bushy Park, St. Philip Land 17,371 sq ft approved has been made for the following what would have been a Zion Williamson scored Golf Club Road, Land 24,000 sq ft for shops and offices Grant of Probate namely: game-winning shot for the 26, Brandon Ingram and Christ Church $200,000 $495,000 PROBATE of the Will dated the Celtics with 2.7 seconds Eric Bledsoe added 15 3 bedroom, 1 bath left, and Daniel Theis each, Nickeil Alexander- Apes Hill, St. James 11TH day of February 2009 of fixer upper Roebuck Street, ANSCELE RANDAL BRUCE whiffed on the follow up Walker had 13 and Jaxson Land 4,000 plus Land 31,000 sq ft upward Bridgetown PAYNE DECEASED also as the Lakers avoided Hayes and rookie Kira UNDER OFFER Large lots at $15 per sq ft Shopping Mall/Office space known as ANSCELE PAYNE blowing a seven-point lead Lewis Jr. had 10 each to $8,100,000 negotiable DECEASED late of No. 5 Wildey with 1:40 remaining. lead the Pelicans. The Belle, St George Mount Wilton, St. Thomas Heights in the parish of Saint Michael in Barbados who died in Montrezl Harrell added Charlotte Hornets 126 - Plantation style House Land 15,500 sq ft Batts Rock, St Michael 16 points for Los Angeles, Milwaukee Bucks 114 and 22,066 sq ft Barbados on the 31st day of Standing on 4 acres Guest House, August, 2014, by Heather which snapped a two- LaMelo Ball and UNDER OFFER $300,000 and $220,000 Land 12,078 sq ft Elizabeth Cole née Payne and game losing streak. Davis Gordon Hayward each $2,850,000 negotiable Mary Patricia Farmer née Payne had missed the team’s scored 27 points and host Union, St. Philip Frere Pilgrim, his two daughters and two of the matchup in Detroit two Charlotte squandered a Land 7560 sq ft Executors named in the Will of Christ Church Cane Garden, St Thomas nights prior. Jayson 20-point lead but 3 bedroom, 2 baths with $150,000 the deceased and power is to be 3.6 acres approved reserved for his wife Heather Tatum had 30 points and recovered to defeat two bedroom apartment. Roadfront land Cottage, St George Mary Payne and his son Philip Jaylen Brown scored 28 Milwaukee. Land 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 $1,650,000 negotiable Lawrence Bruce Payne the other for Boston, which lost for Malik Monk tallied 18 Land 5000 sq ft two Executors named in the Will $110,000 the fifth time in its last points and Graham and Hanson Heights, St George Fitts Village, St James until they shall apply for a Grant seven games. Terry Rozier both finished of Probate. 3 bedroom, 2 baths Guest House, 4 Suites with 12 points for Land 8321 sq ft Morningside, St Philip Land 6,135 sq ft An Application has been Miami Heat 105 - Charlotte, which defeated $595,000 Land 4567 sq ft $850,000 negotiable $133,000 submitted to the Registrar of the Sacramento Kings 104 the Indiana Pacers a night Supreme Court on the 22nd Jimmy Butler, earlier. Miles Bridges Ealing Grove, Mason Hill Street The City day of December 2020 and any returning from a 10-game added 11 points. Ball, a Christ Church Jupiter Gardens, St Philip 26,500 sq ft with buildings person objecting to the said COVID-19-protocol rookie, had nine assists, 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths Land 7312 sq ft Application should send written $4,500,000 negotiable absence, scored 20 of his while teammate Cody Land 9320 sq ft $133,000 Notice to the Registrar of the game-high-tying 30 points Zeller hauled in 15 boards. $565,000 Supreme Court of Barbados All enquiries to fourteen (14) days from the date in the first half as host It took plenty to offset Bagatelle, St. Thomas (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 Land 62000 sq ft into 2 lots of this advertisement after which Miami defeated Giannis Antetokounmpo’s (246) 572 1452 the Registrar may proceed with Sacramento. 34-point, 18-rebound, LOTS FOR SALE $520,000 each the abovenamed application for or Sacramento had its nine-assist outing for the (246) 247 4469 Probate. Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy Marley Vale, St Philip three-game winning Bucks, who have given up Land 14,876 sq ft. Land 21,780 sq ft Dated this 1st day streak snapped despite a huge point totals in $110,000 $275,000 of February, 2021 productive night from consecutive losses. De’Aaron Fox, who had 17 Antetokounmpo shot 12- Malcolm W.E. Deane Sandford, St Philip of his 30 points in the for-19 from the field. Jrue Bushy Park, St. Philip Attorney-at-Law Land 17,000 sq ft Land 16,356 sq ft “Heritage House” fourth quarter. He also Holiday had 21 points and $10 sq ft $305,000 Pinfold Street, Bridgetown had a team-high six Khris Middleton added 18 assists. Sacramento’s points for the Bucks. The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 • 21

22 • Monday February 1, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Salah double helps Liverpool up to third MOHAMED SALAH West Ham on the back foot scored for the first time and, after exchanging in seven Premier passes with Trent League games with a Alexander-Arnold, he brilliant double at West found Salah, who made Ham United to help space for himself against Liverpool move up to Aaron Cresswell before third in the table. curling the ball past A trademark quick shift Fabianski. and curling finish from the Liverpool’s second goal Egypt striker rewarded a was even easier on the eye, bright start to the second Shaqiri receiving a cross- half from the Reds after field diagonal ball from Jurgen Klopp’s side had Alexander-Arnold before failed to find a cutting edge picking out Salah with a to their first-half first-time pass as the possession. visitors broke from a Salah capped a Hammers corner with scintillating Liverpool devastating effect. counter-attack to double Their third was every bit his side’s lead 11 minutes as impressive, as Alex later, instantly controlling Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Xherdan Shaqiri’s looping backheeled one-two with pass over the top before Firmino set the Brazilian prodding past Lukasz Mohamed Salah’s two goals were his first in the Premier League since a double in the 7-0 win at Crystal free and the substitute Fabianski. Palace. crossed for Wijnaldum to Without the injured coolly fire home. Sadio Mane and with Liverpool third before the two sides meet at display in which introduction of Curtis The goals, on the back of Roberto Firmino on the Craig Dawson steered Anfield next Sunday. Liverpool’s only effort on Jones from the bench early three at Tottenham on bench, the onus was on home a corner to hand Eyebrows were raised at target was a 20-yard Salah in the second half proved a Thursday, suggest Salah to end his mini West Ham a consolation. the exclusion of Firmino strike straight at Fabianki game-changer as the Liverpool have found their drought and he came Liverpool’s second win in from Liverpool’s starting suggested the reigning young playmaker neatly attacking verve again after through in style. London in four days cut the line-up given Senegal champions were suffering played in Salah for the going four games without Firmino came off the gap to leaders Manchester forward Mane was missing from the absence of two of opener. scoring – just in time to bench to set up Georginio City – who have a game in with a minor muscle injury. their famed front three. His surging run through breathe life into their title Wijnaldum for a slick hand – to four points before A toothless first-half However, the manager’s the centre of the pitch put defence. The Barbados Advocate Monday February 1, 2021 •23

P R O HOROSCOPES S A ARIES: Not everything will be as straightforward as it N looks. It may take a while for you to realise what’s going D on. You are gaining support from people behind the scenes who are in a position to assist you. Someone who doesn’t C want to draw attention to themselves is doing all they can O N to help you further your goals. S TAURUS: You are well aware of the benefits of being prepared. No one has to spell this out to you. When others see how you are having an easier time of it because you’ve got your life organised, they will be quick to learn from you. Youngsters in the family will follow your example.

GEMINI: Someone has some adventurous plans for the Z home for over the months ahead. If there’s even the I slightest hint of the budget being overstretched, don’t T encourage them and don’t get involved. If you do, you S could end up with a pile of bills that cannot be paid.

CANCER: You don’t have to look far for entertainment. Lively conversations will keep you mentally active. Atext message or email from an old friend will bring positive news about someone you care about. This would be a good time to respond to work and social emails that are overdue a reply. R LEO: Don’t be in a rush to agree to plans other people are E making or to commit yourself to arrangements of a long- X term nature. Asking questions and delving into different M possibilities will go down well in the workplace. You O need to fully consider what you might be letting yourself R in for. G A VIRGO: A friend will reveal they’ve signed up for a N volunteer scheme abroad or they’re embarking on a training scheme without having discussed it with anyone. As well as earning your admiration for having taken such a bold step you might feel drawn towards joining them or making changes in your own lifestyle.

LIBRA: Legal matters will go well. If you are attending P any kind of interview, don’t be afraid to sing your own H praises. You have an eye for a bargain. Don’t be surprised A if you acquire something you’ve longed to own for a long time. An online search may throw up something N wonderful at an equally wonderful price. T O SCORPIO: A gift offer or award will be so unexpected M it might take a while for the excitement to wear off. This could be a novel experience for you and there will be moments experienced today, you will treasure forever. Teaming up with a creative colleague will be lucky for you.

SAGITTARIUS:Afriend or neighbour has a few words M of advice for you. Even if this is something you don’t need A to hear, they will voice their thoughts and these thoughts R sound very judgmental. They may think they are doing Y you a favour but you think they’re interfering. W CAPRICORN: Try not to make it all work and no play. O Job and outside responsibilities are increasing and you R may have to agree to work extra hours to fulfil current T obligations. If you make a point of taking some time off, H your family in particular will be swift to show their appreciation.

AQUARIUS:Acolleague is pursuing new ideas with an M intensity that takes you by surprise. From an easy, relaxed O state of affairs, you will suddenly have a number of T responsibilities. An important project will be offered to H you as a result of your recent achievements. You will want E to do this well. R

PISCES: You’re keen to get started on a new work or G family project. Take your time in the planning stage. O Think things through carefully, keep your goals realistic O and the month ahead should hold a lot of promise. S Someone you are introduced to will have hidden depths. E You might enjoy discovering them. Reifer, Da Silva shine on final day draw

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Monday February 1, 2021 TRACKING COVID-19 Local innovator using QR technology to protect B’dos, world MYKEL J Douglas Sr is on a mission to help eradicate one of the biggest threats to the region and ensure that Government officials are in a better position to protect its people. The only items needed are an Android or Apple smartphone and your QR code. When his innovation takes off, the world will be able to stay two steps ahead of an adaptive and contagious COVID-19. On Thursday, The Barbados Advocate spoke to Douglas Sr via the Zoom platform. The inventor who is the business owner of QR Clear Inc., discussed his newest venture, QPass.The technology will allow health officials and governments to monitor, analyse and identify infected people early before there are outbreaks. But before QPass and QR Clear Inc, Douglas Sr started his journey in Barbados.

Early education and career in Barbados A humble businessman, Douglas Sr. is a brilliant Barbadian who was born and raised on the island. The future talented innovator completed his secondary education at the Christ Church Foundation School and the Barbados Community College with a focus Mykel J Douglas Sr, the creator of QPass is on a mission to help eradicate one of the biggest threats to the region. in mechanical and electrical engineering QPass is a tracking app that uses QR coding. Douglas Sr told The Barbados Advocate that he wants to help Barbados with a minor in electronics. He started and the world stay two steps ahead of COVID-19. his career at the Barbados Light & Power Company as a substation technician for starting a new venture Bachelor’s degree in Computer States including Nextel and Hewlett three years. By 1997, a 20-year-old Douglas Sr left engineering. With his science and Packard. the island to attend Florida Tech in technology background, he worked for Attending university in the USA and Melbourne, Florida to complete his various engineering firms in the United TRACKING on Page 6 More personnel to be added to the COVID mobile team SIXTY additional persons are being members of the mobile team will visit testing.” only encourage them and we can cajole trained to be a part of government’s these persons to carry out testing. Walcott explained polling division will them but at the end of the day that is COVID-19 mobile team who will be “We already have persons who are be used to conduct the survey and “the the individual’s decision. We can’t force visiting communities over the next two trained. The training is ongoing, we are data will be going to the Ministry of you to comply but we will certainly weeks. aiming to see if we can train as much as Health and Wellness”. hope that you will accede to our Chairman of the Cabinet COVID-19 60 additional people so that we can He outlined the over 300 University request.” Sub-Committee, Senator Dr.Jerome have mobile teams… Currently, we of the West Indies students will be He further said the Chief Medical Walcott disclosed as he spoke during have mobile teams of three and four visiting homes in Barbados’ 30 Officer has power to act in situations Saturday’s televised press conference. persons and we are trying to increase constituencies. It is expected they “will that warrant it. He explained the team will be that number to see how many mobile be seeing about 24 households per “If he figures that a person is likely to working in conjunction with personnel teams we can have so that we can have student per day and the duration of the have COVID and is living in a situation who will be carrying out the COVID-19 them going all over the island. As I said, programme is expected to be 12 to 14 with other persons, is interacting with Community Evaluation Survey during the analysis to be done in a two hour days.” other persons who might then be the national shutdown. Through the basis as we get reports and we are Responding to a question about exposed to it, I believe that the Chief survey, individuals who are suspected to hoping then for the mobile teams to go person’s refusal to participate in the Medical Officer has the right under law have COVID-19 will be identified, to persons where they are and do the survey, he said “if persons refuse we can to intervene.”(MG)

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