Established October 1895 Restaurants to open this Sunday PAGE 6

Friday March 19, 2021 $2 VAT Inclusive STRICTLY MEDICINAL By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste unlike other jurisdictions where every- everything in place as everyone would is satisfied with the fact that there is a thing is rolled into one. like it…but I believe this is an ongoing commitment to improving the industry CEO of the Barbados Medicinal “We are strictly regulating the me- conversation and one that we will as time progresses. Cannabis Licensing Authority dicinal cannabis industry, but there is learn.” Additionally, Dr. Munro-Knight said (BMCLA), Dr. Shantal Munro- provision under the Sacramental Act She believes that much like the con- that in the context of Barbados, the in- Knight, is stressing that her as well,” she said. sideration for the Sacramental dustry is under dual heads – one of organisation is strictly advocating “I also want to indicate that we have Act emerged out of a conversation that them being the Ministry of Agriculture, for the use of medicinal cannabis. tried as much as possible to have an in- happened during talks about where they currently sit. She highlighted this during a recent clusive conversation. We are building the Medicinal Cannabis Industry She revealed that they are also work- ‘BAJCAN Connect: Processor Forum’, out an industry at the start, as I said. Act, the industry will grow out of the ing very closely with the Ministry of and added that the Act and regulations We opened in January so the conversa- discussions that will be had in the Health so that products that are in- are for medicinal cannabis only. tion will continue as the industry will future. tended for local use within the medical She went on to note that there is also roll out and grow as we learn. So at the The CEO stated that while some peo- market are able to get approval through a Sacramental Act, which was separate, upfront, we may not be able to get ple may say the Act is not perfect, she that ministry. PSV sector anticipating talks with Transport Minister STAKEHOLDERS in the local public should be enacted, so that you get the ul- service vehicle (PSV) sector are looking timate output in terms of what the is- forward to talks with current Minister of land can afford at this time. There are a Transport, Works and Water Resources, number of problems which permeate the Ian Gooding-Edghill, to get an update transportation sector and this new on the plans and initiatives he has Minister, Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill, for the industry, given a few announce- sees it as an imperative and therefore he ments made in this week’s Estimates is very futuristic in his thinking and he's debate. coming with these new initiatives to be Following reports that government rolled out. But before these initiatives will likely not be able to continue to are rolled out, it would be prudent for heavily subsidise public transportation, him to meet with all of the stakeholders and will instead be looking to private in an effort to ensure that everyone un- operators to be largely responsible for derstands what the government intends transporting commuters across the is- to do, so that we all will be amenable to land, as well as announced plans to es- what he puts on the table,” Haynes tablish a Mass Transit Authority, the added. Alliance Owners of Public Transport “We have always held the view that (AOPT) says it is willing to work with there are many things that can be government to help transform the trans- changed so that everyone benefits – that portation sector, but some discussion on is the commuters and the operators and various matters is needed first. all involved – so we shall await what the Mark Haynes, Communications and Minister puts on the table before we can Marketing Officer of AOPT stated, “No officially respond to every single thing. doubt, given Barbados’ current trans- But of course, like I said earlier, a discus- portation system, there are a number of sion is an imperative. So the minister changes that would have to be made in should not move forward unless he sits Barbados to revolutionise the trans- down with all of the stakeholders, so we portation sector. all can have a national discussion, “I think therefore that the government because this requires a national discus- sees this as an imperative and against sion,” Haynes maintained. this backdrop, has decided that it would He further noted, “The idea of the take the route of looking at revolutionis- Mass Transport Authority is something ing the industry, so that it caters to that would be new to us, so we would what the needs of Barbados should be. have to understand the concept, and un- And as it stands, government has not derstanding the concept can only be met with us to discuss these new initia- [done] when the Minister outlines very tives, but we are prepared to work with articulately what he intends to do, so government in an effort to improve that everyone understands it, and he Barbados’ transportation system,” he will get the national buy-in from the PSV noted. sector and from Barbadians, which will “So the Minister, having made those include the commuters, the operators pronouncements in Parliament (re- and all involved. So we think the cently), sends a signal that it would not Minister means well. So we look forward be business as usual.We think that any- in short order for him to come and sit thing that will redound to the benefit of down with us so we can have this na- Mark Haynes, Communications and Marketing Officer of the Alliance Owners of the transportation sector in Barbados tional discussion.” Public Transport. 2 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 3

Roads and bridges in Scotland District to get some attention A NUMBER of roads and Resources, Mark Cummins about the poor state of “I would certainly expect Works and Water Major road works will bridges will get some at- revealed the above during their roads, will start to get to see some work com- Resources, Ian Gooding also be undertaken in tention soon in this island’s continued debate of the major relief very soon. He mencing on those bridges has meanwhile noted that parts of St. Joseph, St. environmentally-troubled Estimates this week. said the design and con- within not only this finan- roads to be fixed include John, St. Thomas and St. Scotland District. He stressed that resi- struction plans for four cial year, but most cer- those at Hillaby,Haggatts, Peter under a $230 million Permanent Secretary in dents of the Scotland major bridges on arteries tainly within this calendar Greenland, Greg Farm, loan now being finalised the Ministry of Transport, District who have been into the Scotland District, year,” Cummins remarked. Swan/Turner’s Hall and with the Chinese govern- Works and Water complaining for years have been completed. Minister of Transport, Mose Bottom. ment.

Investment in electric Land Tax buses saving money payment MINISTER of Minister Gooding- no debt related to the Transport, Works and Edghill said that currently ownership, and as a Bar- deadline Water Resources, Ian there are no problems badian he is proud of the Gooding-Edghill in re- with the buses, and he did fleet. He said that there sponse to a query this not understand any per- was a recommendation by at month week about the appro- son saying that the type his ministry for the pur- priateness of the elec- of electric bus purchased chase of an additional 14 tric buses in the was inappropriate for the buses because they are end Transport Board fleet, local roads. In fact, the working well. said that the invest- minister said that he was The minister also high- THE Barbados Revenue ment had helped to part of the delegation lighted that the mainte- Authority is reminding save a significant which went overseas to nance cost of the diesel taxpayers that the dead- amount of money. spec the buses before the buses is high, including line for the payment of the Gooding-Edghill, a for- acquisition in order to en- the changing out of brakes 2020-21 Land Tax is mer head of the Transport sure that they conformed, every couple weeks, but Wednesday March 31, Board, defended the pur- and all the charging and the installation of electric 2021. chase of the buses during electrical infrastructure engines has also helped to Failure to pay by this the second session of the required could be done re- save money. date will result in a Budget Estimates earlier garding them. “I can also tell you now Minister of Transport, Works and Water Resources, penalty of five per cent this week. He said that the “We procured the buses, that even the power train Ian Gooding-Edghill. plus one per cent interest process of purchasing we brought them to units, with the new elec- per month. buses was a long and te- Barbados, we had the elec- tric engine that we put in the Transport Aug- and we are going to make The Authority is en- dious one where there was trical infrastructure, the to help enhance fuel effi- mentation Programme the Fairchild Street couraging taxpayers to a checklist which had to buses are being charged ciency, they too have [TAP] is a good example Terminal available, but utilise the online payment be covered. and they are saving us a worked extraordinarily of a public-private part- they will pay their own facilities available via “You go through, you substantial amount of well. Not only in diesel nership initiative and electric bill,” he said. EZpay+ at ezpay.gov.bb, spec the bus, you look at money even though we costs, but also in parts some of the private opera- He explained that a the Cave Shepherd Card the different angles, you pay for electricity on from changing out brakes tors expressed interest in bay would be provided for Mobile App, SurePay check everything. It is a diesel. We have reduced and brake drums every acquiring electric vehicles. the operators to install Online at www.surepay- very long list that we go our diesel and overall op- four to six weeks. But after “Some operators have and use the charging sta- billsonline.com or the on- through. We do that not erating costs per bus, and the first change of the indicated to us that they tion which would help line banking platforms for only because we have to that is a fact,” he con- powertrain unit, we went want to move into the keep operations efficient First Citizens, Scotiabank protect the integrity of our tended. six months before the realm of electric buses and without vehicles having to or First Caribbean. roadways, but we also Gooding-Edghill added need to change brakes,” we applaud them for that. leave the area to seek a Property owners within have to protect the in- that the buses are fully explained Gooding- We have had meetings charging station else- or outside Barbados can tegrity of the bus,” said the owned by the government Edghill. with two entities with where. view their bill amount minister. of Barbados and there is The minister stated that electric units in Barbados (AS) and pay directly on EZpay+, the government’s online payment platform. Simply log in, add a serv- ice account, select Land Payne asks for transparency in awarding of contracts Tax and enter your Map FORMER Housing then we have to make sure said developers were nancial rules. I have never need to be able to make Reference Number. This Minister George Payne that we follow the rules granted a licence of land been asked or encouraged sure they go quickly in the option is especially useful wants to know why gov- and that the Auditor “in exchange for their fi- to break them…I can as- interest of the economy, to those persons who have ernment is seeking to use General does not have to nancing so they could put sure the House I intend to and in the interest of put- not yet received their bills one large contractor to come to the Public in infrastructural develop- follow the rules very ting people to work as the due to the delays of inter- construct 275 homes in Accounts Committee in the ment. closely.” unemployment rate is still national mail associated Chancery Lane, Christ next year or so for some ex- “We are currently still in Saying 18 companies re- extremely high. But it will with the COVID-19 im- Church rather than sev- planation as to how these discussions with Preconco sponded to the tender no- be done, if I am at the min- pact. The Map Reference eral small ones. contracts were awarded,” in advancing that project,” tice on the housing project, istry, in accordance with Number can be found on Questioning his succes- stressed Payne, who was he outlined. he stated these were eval- the Financial Rules previous bills or receipts. sor Dr. William Duguid on removed from the helm of However Payne pressed uated by officials of the …Preconco was approved Additionally, overseas the matter earlier this the housing ministry further by questioning Ministry of Finance and in accordance with the owners can request a copy week in Parliament, Payne during the last Cabinet what were the conditions the National Housing same Rule 2-39. As a mat- of their 2020-2021 Land stated, “There are a num- reshuffle. leading up to the decision Corporation, before being ter of interest, there are Tax bill at any time, by ber of small contractors in Speaking during the to engage Preconco, and submitted to Cabinet for several projects in the submitting a Change Barbados during the previ- Estimates debate, he also asked for transparency in consideration. pipeline for refurbishment of Land Tax Mailing ous BLP administration asked about the 18 other the details, insisting he “I know that all of the 18 and rejuvenation of Crown Address form to landtax- where we had over 2 000 builders expressing inter- wanted to protect the min- companies were approved properties where in the in- [email protected] form housing solutions…and we est in the joint venture ister and the ministry from for submission of joint terest of speed and in the is available for download did not have no one or two programme. being placed under the mi- venture arrangements. interest of survival of the on the Authority’s website contractors.” Outlining the 2002 pol- croscope as had happened Those companies include country, we have to move bra.gov.bb. “It is not a criticism, but icy allowing government to to the former Democratic Preconco,” he added. quickly and so Rule 2-39 Should further assis- I am only saying that if associate with private sec- Labour Party administra- “I am not an economist will be sought for the tance be required, the these particular entities tor entities on joint ven- tion. or accountant, but I am Cabinet to approve mat- Authority’s contact centre are to be allowed to carry tures, Permanent Secre- Maynard stated, “I do persuaded that we need ters via that process,” he is available at 535-ETAX out this type of work, well tary Timothy Maynard not intend to breach the fi- those projects going and we added. or 535-3829. 4 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Timely donation Police need public’s help to St. Alban’s in accident Primary School investigation POLICE at Oistins Police FORMER students mobilise some funds – Station are carrying out have stepped up to each pulling our pockets – investigations into the cir- offer some financial as- and I am here today to cumstances surrounding sistance to their alma make this presentation of a fatal accident which oc- mater, St. Alban’s a cheque to the school,” curred about 5:35 p.m. on Primary School, in Wilson said, also express- Friday March 12, 2021, these challenging ing the group’s desire to along Maxwell Main times due to COVID- assist again in the near Road, Christ Church in- 19. future. volving a motor car and a On Wednesday, John “We are hoping to do pedal cyclist. Wilson presented a this again. I believe this is The pedal cyclist who cheque for just over act one, scene one; we are received head injuries was $4 000 to Information hoping that some time transported to the Queen Technology Coordinator this year we can help Elizabeth Hospital by Curtis McConney,who ac- again. And there are ambulance where she suc- cepted the funds on the some other persons cumbed to her injuries. school’s behalf. that we would have iden- Former student of St. Alban’s Primary School John Wilson presents a cheque to Investigations into the The collaborative effort tified who would have Information Technology Coordinator Curtis McConney to assist with the school’s collision are ongoing. by several former stu- attended St Alban’s that efforts. Any person who may dents was coordinated by we plan to approach,” he have witnessed or may Rodney Husbands, who stated. way to help the children have that fundraiser last pay a lot of attention to have any information sur- currently resides in the Principal, Wendine and the upkeep of the year, and definitely it will the school’s environs, and rounding the circum- United States. Prince said that St. Weston, St. James school not be held this year,” she we are in dire need of one. stances leading up to this “Last year we decided Alban’s, for the second grounds. expressed. Also, we are going to collision is asked to con- that we would give year, will have to post- “This donation by our “We are going to use the try and assist children tact the Oistins Police back to St Alban’s be- pone fund-raising activi- former students is really money to purchase a tele- with devices and Mr. Station at telephone num- cause we recognised ties because of the pan- appreciated. Our main vision for a teacher who McConney is going to be ber 418-2612, Police that since COVID many demic. She therefore fund-raising effort at St uses technology in her tasked with finding out Emergency at 211, Crime schools are in dire need. thanked the former Alban’s is the PTA’s an- classroom. We are also those children who would Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS So we connected with the students for the donation nual fair during Easter going to purchase a weed still need a device,” she (8477), or the nearest principal and decided to which will go a long and we were unable to wacker because we try to said. police station. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 5

Seniors urged to be careful Efforts on to keep By Marsha Gittens businesses which resumed everything went “very operations for the first smooth” and all COVID- country clean THIS island’s senior time since closing on 19 protocols were ob- citizens are being February 2. served. MINISTER of Environ- urged to continue to “I would advise our sen- “The opening went as ment and National Beau- exercise caution as iors to continue to be care- smooth as we had antici- tification, Adrian Forde, they go from location ful, follow the protocols, pated, simply because says his Ministry is on a to location now that and as far as possible stay BARP members can pay mission to make Barbados more businesses have inside because COVID has their membership via the cleanest and most been permitted to re- not disappeared. So we their banks online. They beautiful country in the open. need to stay in a state of can also pay via the post Western Hemisphere. President of the alertness. We need to be office or Sure Pay because According to Forde, as Barbados Association of alert and recognise that as of last year, we made part of that effort his Retired Persons (BARP), COVID is very much with all our accounts accessible ministry is undertaking Marilyn Rice-Bowen, gave us, ” Rice-Bowen warned. via online because we a Clean and Green this advice when she “Let their children and recognised that we needed Programme, installing spoke to The Barbados their grandchildren, let to more or less protect the community refuse hubs, Advocate earlier this the younger ones assist seniors. And if you are se- putting measures in place week. Monday saw a fur- them, but try to stay as rious about protecting to curb dumping and will ther easing of restrictions safe as possible,” she them, then we had to open be implementing legisla- in the country following added. more opportunities for President of the tion to get Barbadians to the National Pause, and On Monday, BARP’s of- payment options for them Barbados Association of take better care of their Minister of Environment hairdressers, barbers and fice also reopened its and the major one being Retired Persons (BARP), properties. and National Beau- aestheticians were among doors. Rice-Bowen said an online presence.” Marilyn Rice-Bowen. He spoke to these and tification, Adrian Forde. other initiatives when his Ministry’s 2021/2022 across the island, explain- Budget took centre stage ing that plans are on during the third day of the stream to remove those Gov’t has not forgotten debate on the Estimates skips and replace them of Revenue and Expen- with community refuse about White Hill diture for the upcoming fi- hubs. Those community nancial year. refuse hubs, he said, will Turning his attention to have doors and will be THE COVID-19 pandemic and facilitate that within unkempt lots, Forde re- painted in bright colours. has contributed to some of two weeks’ time. We will vealed that legislation will “We are going a little bit the delay in getting the definitely arrange that be coming soon to deal further because we are collapsed road at White tour for you to share your with disused or idle land. going to be having bulk Hill in St.Andrew fixed, as views with us,” he an- He made the disclosure waste collections in key equipment needed is nounced. while telling the House of every single community presently overseas. Permanent Secretary Assembly that the time is across Barbados.We have Philip Tudor, Deputy (PS) Mark Cummins also ripe for his ministry to started this project in Chief Technical Officer in acknowledged that he had start having conversa- seven communities, with the Operations Section of in the past traversed the tions with Barbadians most of the backbenchers the Ministry of Transport, area with Payne, and offi- about the need to keep the thus far, and they can Works and Water cials did benefit from the land which they own speak about the response Resources acknowledged institutional knowledge of clean, and that there is to the community and the the above during this persons who lived in the a “level aesthetics in transformation this Clean week’s Estimates debate, area for some time. Noting Barbados”. and Green Project has also noting that there has that a report was submit- “So we will be bringing made to communities, and been some differing views ted to Cabinet after a legislation to enforce and the expression of interest amongst geotechnical en- geotechnical study was to ensure that landown- across Barbados as it gineers about how to go carried out on the area by ers take care of their prop- relates to beautifying about repairing the road, a qualified geotechnical erty.We have a unit in my biological conservation, and this too has been a engineer, he admitted ministry that will be re- ecosystems management problem. however that there are sponsible for assessing because that is all part of His comments came differing engineering Philip Tudor, Deputy Chief Technical Officer in the these disused lands and this cleaning exercise,” after Member of Parlia- views about how to treat Operations Section of the Ministry of Transport, hopefully with a ticketing Forde stated. ment for St. Andrew, to the matter. Works and Water Resources. system. The paper is at His comments came as George Payne, stressed Philip Tudor,who spoke the Attorney General's of- he urged Barbadians to be that residents at White after Cummins, reiterated would have cost in excess $6 to $7 million may be fice as I speak, where if mindful that a community Hill have been made to this point. of $20 million and would needed on the project, government has to reme- skip is to serve a specific suffer, living in horrible, have only been a tempo- which would serve as a diate, that we will be able geographical area and are dilapidated conditions for Differing views rary solution. more permanent solution. to be compensated,”he not to be used by truckers a number of years, while “Initially, as the PS al- He however noted, “We However,Tudor said the stated. to offload refuse that is technocrats and other offi- luded, there was a peer re- didn't think it would have drilling rig for borehole Forde maintained, “I supposed to be landfilled. cials drag their feet in get- view and based on that, been good money well testing is currently in have had enough talking With that in mind, he also ting the matter of the col- there were quite differing spent, spending $20 mil- Grenada and due to the on this issue, the time for told persons not to engage lapsed road addressed. opinions of the two or lion dollars or $30 million lockdowns on account of talk is over. This is the ac- in illegal dumping, warn- Pointing out that he had three engineers who had dollars on a temporary so- COVID, there has been a tion plan now,not the plan ing the public that his worked with the previous given a review of the area. lution.” delay in getting the equip- of action, and I’m saying ministry has erected cam- Transport Minister to This was primarily be- Tudor stated that two ment to Barbados. Once it that Barbadians are duty eras at undisclosed loca- come up with a solution, cause there were no bore- weeks ago, another geot- arrives in another two to bound to care and have tions across the island to he called on the present hole tests done specifically echnical consultant was three weeks, the testing pride in their properties.” try to crackdown on this one to give some attention for White Hill. There was engaged and it was deter- will be done and based on Referring to the Clean problem. and urgency to the plight a solution that was mined where boreholes the results, the Ministry and Green Programme, he “It is a programme of those in White Hill. brought forward, whereby would be needed along the will be in a better position said this national clean- called ‘The Minister is Present Minister of we would go along the corridor or area of the slip, to determine the final so- up is the largest such ini- Watching’... I will be able Transport, Works and brow of the hill from the to determine the type of lution forward for White tiative that has occurred to see those persons…who Water Resources, Ian Hillaby side, down to the soil underneath, so that a Hill, as it relates to the re- in this country and will continue to disregard the Gooding has meanwhile other side. There was a decision on the type of construction of the road, seek to beautify entire principles of keeping promised to tour the area plan to lower that whole road structure or solution where the road will go, communities. He also Barbados clean and the with Payne soon. section and remove about that is needed could be de- and what will be needed to spoke about the garbage whole notion of cleaning “Of course we will be 60 to 70 feet of hill,”Tudor cided on. It has been esti- have a more permanent skips that have been and greening,” he stated. happy to join you on a tour explained, noting that this mated that not more than structure. placed in communities (JRT) 6 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Lack of housing for persons with disabilities a concern THE matter of housing the issue, asking Minister “We know that the White that any political adminis- with disabilities, in terms not being provided for of Housing, Lands and paper, followed up by tration, either then or sub- of their vulnerabilities – persons with disabili- Maintenance, Dr. William a Green Paper 20 sequently,has been able to their hearing impairment, ties, who can be cate- Duguid, whether he had years ago almost – 2001, fulfil that role, but again, it their visual impairment – gorised as some of the given any consideration to 2003 – under a previous was a noble policy and con- and I am wondering if that most vulnerable per- providing housing to dis- Barbados Labour Party cept to try to accommodate is still the policy sons in society, was abled persons, as the for- government led by the very some of the most vulnera- of your Ministry and brought to the fore mer Barbados Labour Hon. Owen Arthur would ble persons in this society,” whether your Ministry in- during this week’s Party administration did have as a matter of policy Hinkson remarked. tends to ensure that it is MP for St. James North Estimates debate. some years back, under the indicated that 10 per cent He added, “It would not only the policy,but it is Edmund Hinkson. St. James North leadership of the late for- of housing should be re- mean obviously that the implemented as well, be- Member of Parliament mer Prime Minister Owen served for persons with dis- housing identified would cause…we owe it to people be given to the matter. Edmund Hinkson raised Arthur. abilities. I am not so sure be retrofitted for persons with disabilities to have “I do appreciate the need such a policy in place.” for the disabled (to have Minister Duguid mean- housing to suit their needs) while noted that while it is and it is something that I not a policy that is being must admit, having to deal pursued at present, it is with the tremendous something that his amount of work to be done Ministry can look at going at National Housing forward. Corporation just to meet Stressing that as former the basic needs for the av- Minister of Transport, erage person, the fire vic- TENDER NOTICE Works and Maintenance tims and the person who he ensured that electric has been suffering abuse, URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION buses bought for Barbados has really taken the focus, FAIRCHILD STREET MARKET VILLAGE could accommodate per- but I will recalibrate and sons with disabilities, he look to see what we can do gave the assurance that for disabled people as well,” 1. Tenders are invited from competent contractors for the Construction of The Butchers & Fish Vendor Block forming part of the some consideration could Duguid indicated. (RSM) re-development of the Fairchild Street Market required for this project.

2. The project comprises the building of a single storey structure to house nine individual butcher’s stalls and one fish vendor stall. No shortage of second The work will include the electrical, plumbing, refrigeration and air-conditioning services. doses of COVID-19 vaccine 3. Tender documents including the Bills of Quantities, Form of Tender, Specifications, and Design Drawings, can be collected from the Urban Development Commission, 1st Floor NSR Building, Bridge Street, Bridgetown, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 BARBADIANS have been sons who already had their p.m. commencing Monday, March 8th, 2021. Please note that a non-refundable fee of One Hundred and Fifty ($150.00) assured that there are first shot. Major Clarke dollars is charged for each set of documents collected. Payment must be made in cash. enough second doses of the further pointed out that Oxford-AstraZeneca vac- health officials are cur- cine available to inoculate rently only using available 4. Tenders on the appropriate Tender Form should be submitted in sealed envelopes, marked Tender for CONSTRUCTION OF everyone who already re- first doses as they contin- BUTCHER’S AND FISH VENDOR’S BLOCK – FAIRCHILD STREET MARKET and should be addressed to: The Chairman, ceived their first dose. ued the vaccination pro- Urban Development Commission, 1ST Floor, NSR Building, Bridge Street, Bridgetown, to reach on or before but no later than 3:00 Co-coordinator for the gramme. p.m. on Wednesday 31st March 2021 National Vaccination The roll out for the ad- Programme (Logistics), ministration of the second Major David Clarke, ex- dose of the vaccine is 5. The successful tenderer will be required to provide a surety for the due performance of the contract by way of one of the plained that people need expected to start from following methods: not worry since the second April 17, 2021. Based on doses for the first phase scientific information, the a. By way of a deposit with The Commission, a sum of money or approved securities to the value of not less than 10 per of the vaccination pro- second dose is best given centum of the contract price. gramme were placed in 10 to 12 weeks after the storage. They will be ad- first to achieve greater ministered to those per- efficacy. b. By way of a bank or an accredited Insurance Company whose liability shall not be less than 10 per centum of the contract price. The cost of obtaining such a surety shall be the responsibility of the contractor, unless his tender has been accepted; or Restaurants to c. By way of satisfactory personal sureties. open this Sunday 6. TENDERERS SHOULD BE AWARE THAT THE LABOUR CLAUSES (PUBLIC CONTRACTS) ACT CAP 349 SHALL IN SO RESTAURANTS will be that restaurants are per- FAR AS IS APPLICABLE TO THE TENDERER APPLY TO ANY CONTRACT MADE IN RESPECT OF THE TENDERER. FULL allowed to open this mitted to open “for regular DETAILS OF THE CONDITIONS OF THE ACT, CAP 349 MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE CHIEF LABOUR OFFICER, Sunday, March 21. service from Monday to WARRENS OFFICE COMPLEX, WARRENS, ST. MICHAEL. The Emergency Sunday,between the hours Management (COVID-19) of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. (Curfew) (No. 6) Directive, and may only serve alco- 7. ALL TENDERERS must submit a Certificate of Incorporation as well as their V.A.T Registration Number. Failure to provide at No.6 states:“On Sunday holic beverages with the Certificate of Incorporation and the VAT Registration Number will render the tender void. All certificates must be the the 21st day of March, meals”. name of the tenderer. 2021, only the following However, restaurant nonessential services shall owners must ensure that 8. No tender will be considered unless it complies with the conditions set out in this notice. be permitted to open in the there is six feet of separa- manner specified” and at tion between tables and 6(f) it continues: “hotels, set-ups. 9. Requests for further information should be directed to the Engineering Firm as indicated in the tender package. villas and other rental Fast food restaurants accommodation, for the shall open only for drive- 10. The Urban Development Commission does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any tender. entire day, including through, curbside pickup restaurants”. and off-site delivery of The Directive also states meals. (BGIS) The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 7

Xi: Promote web economy’s healthy growth A KEY meeting presided over by Communist Party of China Central businesses undergoing unregulated property rights system for data must be President Xi Jinping recently Committee, chairman of the Central growth and faced with various risks, strengthened, and Internet platforms outlined steps to bolster oversight of Military Commission and the head of the according to a summary of the meeting. It must do better in assuming their the economy supported by Internet committee. also highlighted the problem of the responsibilities for data security. platforms, which includes tech He urged steps to create an government system not being able to meet The government must improve its giants and e-commerce sites, while environment for innovation, solve requirements for oversight of the sector. capacity and level in conducting oversight underlining the need to enable the prominent problems in the sector and It is important to establish and improve and strengthening its anti-monopoly healthy growth of private businesses enable its growth in a regulated, healthy a governance system for the platform capabilities, while ensuring that all in the sector. and sustained manner. economy and clarify the rules and bottom financial activities are brought under the The meeting of the Central Committee The meeting highlighted the line before stepping up oversight and scrutiny of financial regulators, the for Financial and Economic Affairs also increasingly important role of the enabling the orderly growth of the sector, summary said. mapped out a host of measures that would platform economy in overall social and the summary said. At the meeting, the important role of the help China to peak its carbon emissions economic development, noting that the The meeting reiterated the need to platform economy in promoting high- by 2030 and attain carbon neutrality by sector has helped raise efficiency in the promote fair competition, fight monopolies quality growth and high-quality living 2060. allocation of resources, promote the and guard against the unregulated standards was stressed. It also urged With China’s platform economy at a transformation of technologies and expansion of capital. businesses in the sector to assume their crucial stage of growth, it is important to industries and improve national It urged improving rules and the responsibilities in guaranteeing food strengthen weak areas in the sector in governance. system, with accelerated steps to improve security, protecting the rights to data and both the long and short terms, said Xi, However, the sector is challenged with related laws and regulations and close the privacy of users and ensuring the who is also general secretary of the some striking problems, with some loopholes in rules. The development of a labour rights of workers. Education ministry Calls grow for gyms designed for elderly residents releases new PHYSICAL training professionals and taking short walks, doing simple Beijing, said many people believe seniors seniors are calling for more gyms to be calisthenics or exercising on free fitness should only undertake mild and evaluation standards constructed with older people in mind as facilities installed in their communities. “peaceful” sports. the need grows for improved fitness Many older people are looking for more Despite that, scientific research shows LOCAL governments should not require among the group. interesting, scientific and systematic that regular, long-term, systematic primary and secondary schools to meet Wen Wen, deputy chairman of the fitness programs, and the forms of training can not only lower the risk of certain enrollment targets to higher-level Chinese Veterans Sports Association, said exercise should be much more diverse seniors falling ill, but can also improve schools or evaluate schools, principals older people want more opportunities as and personalised, she added. their balance and reactions, he said. and teachers solely based on the they are no longer content with just Hao Jiaqi, a trainer at a fitness club in “Compared with outdoor sports, which enrollment rate, according to a often pose more risks to older people’s new evaluation standard released safety, exercise undertaken in indoor yesterday. venues, such as fitness clubs, and under The evaluation standard for the guidance of professional coaches is compulsory education, jointly issued by safer,” Hao said. the Ministry of Education and five other "The small, enclosed spaces also provide departments, required county-level more opportunities for interaction and governments and schools conduct self- communication.” evaluation based on the standard, while However, the training schedules and the municipal, provincial, and national operating models of most fitness clubs in governments should re-evaluate all China rarely meet seniors’ needs. county governments and schools every Guo Yuxia, a 62-year-old from three to five years. Guangzhou, Guangdong province, said Per the new standard, local she had considered going to a gym, but governments and schools should not was deterred when she discovered that publish or sensationalise high-scorers at most were oriented toward younger the high school entrance exam and the people in terms of decor, accessories or national college entrance exam. training sessions. There should be no key schools or key “I’ve been to several gyms. The music classes for compulsory education, and all was loud, and I couldn’t find any students should be admitted based on equipment that suited me,” she said. the proximity of their home to the school “Also, the staff members kept urging without taking any entry tests. me to buy expensive training sessions without considering whether they were suitable for me or not.” Seniors exercise at a health center designed for older people in Xingtai, Hebei She hopes to see some more Xi urges joint province, in December. seniors-only fitness clubs set up, she said. efforts to advance China, ‘Cooling-off ’ period cooling off divorce rates

Guyana ties THE 30-day “cooling-off” period before finally decided to give up on the decision, The news report also said the marriage divorce proceedings are finalised is the report said. registration office in Wuchang district in BEIJING – President Xi Jinping said playing a critical role in reversing some The “cooling-off” period stipulated in Wuhan has set up a psychological recently that China and Guyana should couples’ decisions on splitting,Hubei Daily the Civil Code and which came into effect guidance program for couples who apply take the 50th anniversary of their reported recently. in January is designed for couples to avoid for divorce. diplomatic ties next year as an Statistics from the civil affairs bureau of making impulsive decisions and enables By taking part in surveys and with opportunity to push for more co-operation Wuhan, capital of Hubei province, showed them to think it over after handing in counsellors’’ intervention, the couples results and lift bilateral relations to that in January, the bureau accepted their divorce papers to the civil affairs receive professional assistance in their higher levels. divorce applications from a total of 3 096 department. marriage. In a telephone conversation with couples. After the 30-day “cooling-off” During the period, either party can As of March 10, at least 1 150 people Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, Xi period and another 30 days for the bureau withdraw the application. who had handed in their application suggested that the two countries to review and process the applications, as After 30 days, if both parties still insist participated in the survey, which found earnestly respect and accommodate each of March 5, only 1 309 couples completed on divorce,they should proceed to the civil that the top three “killers of marriage” other’s core interests and major concerns, their divorce procedures and officially affairs department in person and ask for were differences in personal promote Belt and Road co-operation, and broke up. the issuance of their divorce certificates. characteristics, trivial matters in daily life expand win-win collaboration in such That is to say about 58 per cent of the Otherwise, they will be treated as having and the lack of communication, the report areas as energy and infrastructure. couples who originally applied for divorce withdrawn the application. said. 8 • Friday March 19, 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 Alarm as peace summit held with just one Afghan woman Dengue fear KABUL – As envoys leads Afghanistan’s the few women involved high priority for the Biden gathered in Russia’s Independent Human in the peace process, in Administration,” the LIVING in the Caribbean means that we have capital for a shake up of Rights Commission, said favour of traditional male spokesperson said. been exposed to information about Dengue the Afghan peace process, it was unacceptable that political figures. A spokesman for Fever from a young age. There are Afghan women wondered only one woman attended In many cases, the Afghanistan’s presidential advertisements on television and radio, – what about us? the meeting. regional powers owe their palace did not colourful notices in print and social media. Just one woman, rights It was also a worrying influence in Afghanistan immediately respond to Information on Dengue has been so ingrained advocate and politician sign for the future: “It’s to ties with warlords who request for comment. into our everyday life that sadly it had become Habiba Sarabi, was on the setting the tone for things held sway throughout four During their 1996-2001 easy to ignore, like background music, part of 12-member delegation of to come in terms of decades of conflict, all of rule, the Taliban enforced life’s soundtrack. This is especially true where Afghan government and inclusivity,” she said. them men. an interpretation of there are several other things happening to political leaders attending The Moscow summit “A number of our Islamic law that was distract from its presence such as the persistent yesterday’s summit in was the start of a series of colleagues in the among the harshest threat of Covid-19. Luckily the Government has Moscow. The ten-member international meetings international community towards women’s rights on noticed the monotony in the Dengue public delegation sent by the reflecting a shift in focus are going to... the same earth. Women were health messaging and has created new and Islamist Taliban had none. by Washington, as a May 1 leaders, who ruled required to fully cover interesting public service announcements such Yesterday, Sarabi deadline for the Afghanistan twenty years their bodies and faces in a as the radio ad where a mosquito can be heard addressed a vast circular withdrawal of US and ago,” said Fauzia Koofi, burqa, and barred from grieving for her lost family and complaining table of male counterparts other foreign troops looms, one of just four female education or work, or from about not being able to eat when people wear at a Moscow hotel, calling and negotiations between negotiators among the 42 leaving the house without insect repellent. Although the advertisement is for a ceasefire. the government and representing the Afghan a male relative. The comical it sends a clear message of the things we “Why should (I) be the Taliban in Doha have been sides in Doha. Taliban say they have must do to get rid of mosquitoes. only woman in the room? stalled. A spokesperson for the changed but many women Dengue fever is still a serious illness and We have not been part of Diplomats say US State Department said remain sceptical. severe cases can lead to a need for extreme the war, we can certainly Washington wants Washington wished there Since the Taliban were medical intervention such as blood transfusions. contribute to peace,” she support from regional had been more than one driven from power in 2001 A diagnosis for dengue requires a blood test said, according to a tweet powers to push Afghans to woman in the Moscow by US air strikes, the however certain symptoms may be sufficient to from a fellow negotiator form a power-sharing delegation. The United international community suggest to medical practitioners that a patient that she shared. government. At the talks States would advocate for has poured billions into has Dengue, especially if the person is living or “Fifty-one per cent of in Moscow, the United “meaningful Afghanistan’s working in an area where other persons have people should not be States was joined by participation” by women development. Gains for contracted the disease. A little-known fact is ignored.” Russia, China and in upcoming gatherings. women and girls in access that there are four types of the Dengue Virus. With just six weeks left Pakistan in calling for an “Women, girls, and to education and public The body can develop immunity to each type before a deadline for Afghan ceasefire. minority groups in life are repeatedly touted individually as it recovers from infection but a foreign troops to withdraw Women’s rights activists Afghanistan have made as one of the major person would still be susceptible to becoming from Afghanistan, fear that the shift will extraordinary gains... and successes of two decades infected with the other types. Multiple infections Shaharazad Akbar, who further dilute the role of preserving those gains is a of foreign involvement. lead to a higher risk of severe dengue developing. Mosquitoes that have bitten a person already infected with the Dengue virus would become Vaccine jabs top 400 million carriers of the virus and be able to spread it from person to person. Although rare, Dengue can PARIS, France – More starting under the free population. outshining its also cause complications during pregnancy. than 400 million doses of Covax programme. Out of 13 of the poorest competitors. According to the US Centres for Disease vaccines have been given Israel is still leading the countries which have Although low cost, it is Control (CDC), the symptoms of Dengue include around the world as of race by far, with nearly started their vaccination being widely used in fever, headache, rash, and pains such as eye yesterday,according to an three out of five of its campaigns, nine started in richer countries such as pain, muscle or joint pain. One important matter AFP tally. population having early March using the UK and the EU as well to note about Dengue is that it is widely advised Despite the suspension received at least one dose. vaccines delivered for free as in poorer countries, that persons treat the disease with medicines of the AstraZeneca shot in Around a half of Israeli under the Covax scheme thanks to the Covax such as paracetamol instead of the class of more than a dozen have received a second launched by the World scheme. medicines known as Non-steroidal anti- countries, vaccination dose. Health Organisation, the It is also being inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include campaigns against The United Kingdom Gavi vaccine alliance and administered in India, brand names such as Advil and Aleve. These COVID-19 continue to (38 per cent), the United the Cepi coalition. where it is also made. medications can increase the risk of bleeding pick up speed, the count Arab Emirates (between Only 0.1 per cent of the The Swedish-British from the disease. based on official sources 35 and 70 per cent), Chile doses injected around the vaccine has however been This knowledge can be life-saving as it found. (28 per cent), the United world were given in these dogged by problems, after appears that such complications can cause the In a sign of how the pace States (22 per cent), poor countries, home to blood clots were observed disease to be even more deadly. Severe Dengue is picking up, the last 100 Bahrain (22 per cent) and nine percent of the global in a number of vaccinated was previously called Dengue hemorrhagic fever million people vaccinated Serbia (16 per cent by population. people. But the EU which has symptoms such as bleeding under got their jabs in 11 days – March 12) are also doing In contrast, the richest regular said yesterday the skin, abdominal pain, and vomiting. The six times faster than it well. countries – which have 16 that it was not linked to World Health Organisation suggests that it is took to give the first 100 In terms of pure per cent of humanity – an increased risk of blood when the fever breaks that an infected person million. numbers, the US is way have had 58 per cent of the clots. may begin showing signs of severe dengue. By Thursday at 11:30 ahead with 113 million doses. The vaccines produced Earlier this year there were some chilling am (Jamaica time) at least jabs given before China More than a quarter of by US-German Dengue deaths that caused some concern which 402.3 million doses had with 65 million (as of all doses given so far (28 Pfizer/BioNTech – which escalated when the Minister of Health and been administered in March 14), India (39 per cent) were in the US. is being used in more than Wellness Lieutenant Colonel Jeffery Bostic more than 158 countries million) and the UK with The vaccine developed 70 countries – and the stated that one of the deaths was in a person around the world. 27.6 million. by AstraZeneca and American Moderna, used with no predisposing conditions. The While rich countries European Union Oxford University has in more than 40, are more Government’s steps to include a press have fared best, countries have given 54.4 already been expensive and harder to conference on the current Dengue situation in vaccination in the poorer million doses to 8.5 per administered in some 100 store. They are mainly their presentations to the public at that time countries is at last cent of the bloc’s countries or territories, used in the rich countries. was a clear sign of the severity of the situation. Let us not become complacent, focusing only on Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes Covid-19 lest we fall victim to other diseases E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen which have been around for much longer and Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan have already claimed many lives. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: [email protected] AstraZeneca vaccination is extremely safe EUROPEAN govern- advice which they must dence in those vaccinated AstraZeneca said on many thousand! delay the achievement of ments appear to have have received. even if they were NOT Sunday that of the 17 It is obvious that the herd immunity and the been guilty of a remark- The fact is that throm- given a vaccine is likely to million people vaccinated handful of thromboses desperately sought end to ably naïve, mass panic boses and emboli occur be at least 2 or 3 per thou- in the EU and the UK, and emboli reported are the pandemic. reaction in response to with an incidence of sand per year. 17 million there have been 15 events irrelevant to the vaccin- Please, political leaders a handful of reports of about 1 in a thousand people over 45 years of of deep vein thrombosis ation, and one wonders and our population – thrombosis and emboli population every year for age NOT vaccinated and 22 instances of pul- if apart from the trite do not be deceived by following AstraZeneca adults over 45, rising rap- would be expected to ex- monary embolism, as per phrase used to justify mischief makers or bad vaccination. It does not idly with age to a five-fold perience between them data received until March with-holding the political decisions in appear that political lead- greater incidence of 5 in a between 17,000 and 8. That is a total of 37 in- AstraZeneca vaccine – Europe. The vaccine is ers have understood the thousand by age 80. With 51,000 such incidents in cidents over more than “out of an abundance of infinitely safer than basic epidemiological priority given to older a year, or between 8,500 six months, give or take a caution” – if there are any COVID-19. Do not put facts or listened to well persons and those with and 25,500 over six few that might not have other political or commer- yourself, your family and informed public health chronic disease, the inci- months. been reported … NOT cial issues causing this friends at risk. apparent panic reaction among leaders. It is to- SIR HENRY tally illogical and only FRASER, MB, ChB, serves to encourage the PhD, FACP, FRCP The UWI must set itself free bizarre conspiracy theo- Professor Emeritus of rists and anti-vaccine Medicine and Clinical CATERPILLARS trans- Bryan’s report. Bryan’s ers in the Secondary It now must climb new lobbyists, which will Pharmacology, The UWI form from a tree-clinging report reflects a culture of school system, who be- hills in order to grow. pest into a majestic flying the internal struggle of came professors; a group Reducing the cost of uni- butterfly.This is a fantas- institutions.The UWI has of knowledge seekers versity education is one of tic mechanism of nature. now joined rather than led whose financial empty them. In Barbados, clus- Gag orders, fear factor, Yet,observing this organic an island culture of resig- pockets thwarted the ters of secondary sixth- process doesn’t tell the nation. In Barbados, the Mona trip, and who form schools exist. Their truth and justice complete story. cry for reform is a stillborn grabbed the opportunity collective physical re- Understanding the inside voice of hot air.Several re- with heads and hands. sources are superior to the THE entire population Sadly, there is a subtle story reveals the truth. ports on reorganisation The wings of the butterfly Deep-water Harbor site, of Barbados should be underground fear factor That internal digestive are in file thirteen: edu- were strong and its where The UWI Cave Hill proud of Ms. Marsha existing in pockets of the mechanism enables the cation, the economy, the colours shone in the sun. began. They are shared Hinds-Layne. Barbadian society that caterpillar to become a public service, and gover- The Bryan report is fertile spaces awaiting She must also be must be eradicated if butterfly.That tough leap nance. Read but not di- more than a critique of eggs and nurturing. Two- highly commended and we are to make positive of change sets free the but- gested and internalised. performance, leadership, year sixth-form College- fully supported for her strides and the progress terfly that then assumes a Still, loud claims and and maintenance. Growth accredited UWI pro- role and stance as a we so desperately seek. new role in nature’s king- promises of intention and and contribution are dy- grammes will reduce stu- member of the advisory The fear factor embold- dom. Institutions are but- sounds of the public build- namic, not static. Success dent economic costs and Board of the ens gag orders and is a terflies in the waiting. But ing’s clock, abound. and achievement are al- save governments money. Government Industrial hindrance to the achieve- it is the satisfied internal In 1948 the university ways incomplete, always The separation of The School (Girls). ment of desired goals. hunger that triggers free- was a medical idea, the or- seeking unexplored and UWI from its work will Holding true to the Noted religious and dom. Not the billboards ganic response of a com- unfamiliar landscapes begin to resolve the uni- mantra, “If you see some- political leader of the of external success and missioned report. The and seascapes; always versity’s internal struggle. thing, say something”, Nation of Islam, Louis achievement, personal ac- Mona campus was ugly: a breaking rules.The Bryan It will be leadership by Ms. Hinds-Layne has Farrakhan, once de- claim, or legacy. Freedom reclaimed army head- report confronts under- example. Ultimately, the broken the proverbial clared, “There really is self-led – an internal, quarters. Money and standing of the internal success of Caribbean gov- sound-barrier and has can be no peace without not an external motif of resources were scarce. technology of The UWI. It ernments and institutions created a sonic boom justice. There can be no change. The idea clung to the begs answers to the ques- is the fairest measure of that is reverberating justice without truth, The University of the University of London for tion what are the current The University of the West across various media. unless someone rises up West Indies is about sev- sustenance and fresh air. needs, not the glory of yes- Indies. Only free and inde- It is one thing to pro- to tell you the truth.” enty-three years old. It That caterpillar trans- terday’s dead labour? pendent institutions can claim and protect the May all Barbadians knows the struggle of ef- formed and became a The University of the lead a free Caribbean.The rights and the privacy stand in solidarity with fort and the glory of suc- butterfly,flew East across West Indies is an exem- UWI must now set itself of children, it is a com- Ms. Marsha Hinds- cess. Understanding lead- the Caribbean. When it plar of using what free. pletely different matter Layne and the support- ership, management, and laid its eggs in Barbados you have within the to institute any gag order ing Youth Groups in relationships are within in 1963, a caterpillar Caribbean experience. It WALTER EDEY that will cover up wrong- their quest for Truth, the University’s grasp and fed on the tree leaves of did so by building relation- Retired Educator doing and injustice – the Justice and what is experience. Consequently, Barbados: the buildings ships, by the humility of and graduate of two can easily and con- Right. what is unsaid is the only left from the Deep-water effort and not the arro- The University of flictingly overlap creat- way to assess Sir Ken Harbor project; the teach- gance of academic success. the West Indies ing chaos. MICHAEL RAY

LET GOD QUOTES FOR TODAY WORDS OF SPEAK TO US WISDOM Sir Vivian Richards Marsai Martin “May the God of hope fill you Former West Indian cricketer American actress & YOUR WORDS with all joy and peace as you executive producer trust in him, so that you may “The next generation did not Your words are heard overflow with hope by the seem to be smart enough to realise “It doesn't matter if you're with the ears, power of the Holy Spirit.” that you have to work to be at the 4 or 84; there's no age limit But understood with top and to stay at the top. You to what you can do.” the heart. – Romans 15, vs 13 (NIV) can have talent, but if you do not work hard it's not going to hap- pen.” 10 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Husbands: Take a regional approach WITH projections that She has told the House tribute trillions of new Parliamentary colleagues Ministry of Foreign Affairs Grenadines or Grenada trillions of dollars of Assembly where debate dollars to global gross do- – MPs for St. James and Foreign Trade to look will never have enough are being generated on the Estimates contin- mestic product. Central and for Christ at dialoguing across the space that won’t be a prob- from converting waste ued, that the way this Arguing that there Church West Central – to CARICOM Single Market lem to someone at some into new products, a country manages waste ought to be a regional ap- continue on the theme of and Economy (CSME) to time. Barbados Government disposal can lead to signif- proach to the process, Ms. working together on their see where as a region we “So I think we take a re- Minister does not want icant economic benefits. Husbands, who is the MP policy where waste is can work together to iden- gional approach to this be- this country to be left Ms. Husbands said that for St. James South, said taken and converted into tify potential production cause it can generate jobs behind. changing how production that Barbados needs to go new products, and subse- spots for taking the waste and significantly change Minister in the Ministry is done and how waste is that route because it can quently generating jobs of the region.” the course for a number of of Foreign Affairs and managed will lead to the generate significant jobs for Barbadians. She reasoned that every countries, cause all of us Foreign Trade, Sandra development of enter- and change the course for According to Husbands, small nation has that would benefit from proper Husbands, believes that prises, and new products a number of countries in “Therefore, I would want problem and that small waste management and there is potential for gains and jobs across the world the Caribbean. to encourage that the countries like Barbados disposal,” Ms. Husbands from this for Barbados. that can actually con- She urged two of her dialogue with us in the or St. Vincent and the added. ‘Speed, Safety and Convenience’, the goal of Sagicor’s new Drive-Thru service SAGICOR continues to and restrictions on move- add to its list of convenient ment and physical opera- options for clients to tions towards the end of conduct their business 2020 and particularly in with the insurance and January of this year, put a financial institution. halt to those plans,” said The company recently Inniss. launched a new and inno- “With businesses now vative “Drive-Thru” serv- being given permission to ice at its Collymore Rock re-open on a phased basis, complex, affording clients we wanted to provide the opportunity to “pull up as many safe options as and pay” and complete possible, to preserve the various transactions with- health and safety of our out the need to leave the clients and our valued comfort and safety of their team members.” vehicle. For the remainder of Paul Inniss, Executive the month of March in Vice President and the first instance, clients PULL UP AND PAY! Sagicor recently debuted their Drive-Thru payment service. Here, Sagicor CSR Deborah General Manager for will be able to use this Bowen (left) shows appreciation to customer Nkwa Daniel for being the first customer to use the service. Sagicor Life Inc., said the service to make payments, introduction of this option thereby reducing the Inniss expressed confi- physical ailments; along have the latter present, ness with us,” said Inniss. had been on the cards for amount of foot traffic into dence that this option with senior citizens, who without having to help Sagicor also rolled out some time and the com- the branch, which has would be appealing to a are expected to be the them in and out of the upgrades to its Sagicor Go pany is excited to finally been the goal of every cus- specific, but large group main users of this service,” vehicle, or up and down mobile app, as well as bring it to market. tomer focused initiative in- of individuals. he said. “It also makes life stairs.” launched WhatsApp for “We had been exploring troduced by the company “We all have time con- easier for individuals who “The ‘Drive-Thru’ serv- Business, both of which the use of this system for a since the onset of the straints, and this will go a are responsible for helping ice follows the introduction allows clients to virtually number of months, how- COVID-19 pandemic. long way towards helping their parents or grandpar- of several other alternative request quotes, submit ever, the re-introduction of As it relates to the pro- our clients and individu- ents carry out their busi- channels through which claims and have their strict COVID-19 protocols jected use of the service, als with disabilities or ness, as it allows them to clients can conduct busi- queries answered. New president named for The Barbados Bankers Association THE Barbados Bankers Mr. Clerk is a career Business, and a Diploma over the Presidency, Ms. transformation during her commitment, along with Association Inc. (TBBA) banker with more than a in Banking from the Wellington expressed her tenure. other members of the as- announces the election decade of experience at Institute of Banking and appreciation for the oppor- She said:“I will continue sociation, to ensure that of Mr. Anthony Clerk, the Senior Management Finance of Trinidad and tunity to have served in to champion that cause consumers continue to Managing Director and Level and has served in Tobago. Mr. Clerk is a this position for the last and will give the new benefit from a healthy, Chief Executive Officer, various capacities at member of the Council of five years. President my full sup- stable and competitive Republic Bank (Barbados) Republic Bank including the Barbados Chamber of She noted the mile- port.” banking industry. Limited, as its new Regional Corporate Commerce and Industry. stones achieved during As such, she anticipates Mr. Clerk notes the President. Manager, Corporate He has also served as a her term, including the her continuing service as unique economic national In addition to providing Business Centre Non-Executive Director debt restructure, the es- the TBBA representative and international circum- leadership of the East/Central, General on the Board of National tablishment of the Credit in some capacities. stances as he begins his Association, as President Manager, Credit, Republic Enterprises Limited, Bureau and the continu- In accepting the tenure and said: “As the of TBBA, Mr. Clerk will be Bank (Grenada) Limited; Trinidad and Tobago. ing effort to mitigate the Presidency, Mr. Clerk ac- country seeks to recover its main spokesperson to Corporate Manager and Mr. Clerk succeeds economic impact from the knowledged the signifi- from the grave impact communicate the banking Corporate Business Ms. Donna Wellington, COVID pandemic not only cant role the TBBA has of the COVID pandemic industry’s perspective to Centre North, Trinidad Managing Director – on business and banking played over the years and and to grow in the future government, regulators and Tobago. He holds a Barbados & Eastern operations, but also on thanked Ms. Wellington years,TBBA anticipates a and stakeholders, inclu- Master of Business (MBA) Caribbean, CIBC the customers. She also for her sterling contri- modern and vibrant bank- sive of the media and the from the Arthur Lok Jack FirstCaribbean Interna- lauded the progress of the bution as President. He ing sector playing a criti- public. Graduate School of tional Bank. In handing industry towards digital pledged his continuing cal role in the process.” The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 11

Nike misses quarterly revenue estimates on temporary store closures NIKE INC. fell short of slump in sales at brick- Europe and ensuing re- Low shipping container sales at major apparel Nike’s net income rose Wall Street estimates and-mortar stores dur- strictions affected sales at availability and congestion sellers. to $1.45 billion, or 90 cents for third-quarter rev- ing the COVID-19 pan- retail stores in the quarter, issues at major US ports The company’s shares per share, in the third enue on Thursday, as demic. even as Nike and its rival have also been limiting fell 4% in extended trading quarter ended Feb. 28, from higher online demand Rising COVID-19 in- Adidas double down on the flow of goods into the after gaining about 40% in $847 million, or 53 cents failed to make up for a fections in Canada and their online channels. United States, affecting 2020. per share, a year earlier. Tribute to the late Sir Courtney Blackman OUR nation has been and is blessed in many and significant ways. Among them is the high sense of enduring vision embodied and exemplified in ser- vants of exceptional dis- tinction and worth to whom the duty falls to lead. It is in the pursuit of such duty that often un- questioned integrity is es- tablished and institutions of the greatest conse- quence are birthed. Such Bishop Joseph Atherley institutions constitute lasting memorials unin- ilege so to follow as we tentionally self-con- grow our nation and our structed; silent testa- national architecture from ments of individual hon- seeds so planted. our which speak far more Thank you, Sir loudly in the interests and Courtney, for your service of the national labours. community. Sincerest condolences Servants such as to his widow, Gloria, and the late Sir Courtney children, from the Leader Blackman march through of the Opposition. their time leaving humble imprints in the golden Bishop Joseph J. S. sands of civic commitment Atherley J.P, M.P. and stellar accomplish- Leader of the ments. Others is the priv- Opposition BANK RATES Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of business yesterday by the Central Bank of Barbados. Valid for March 19, 2021

Notes: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 Canadian Dollar 1.57617 1.62279 East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 Euro 2.33298 2.43122 Pound Sterling 2.72650 2.84130 United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 Demand/Sight: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.58514 1.62136 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.36721 2.41613 Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 Pound Sterling 2.76650 2.82367 United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 Telegraphic Transfer Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.58814 1.62136 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.37167 2.41613 Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 Pound Sterling 2.77171 2.82367 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 0.00943 Jamaica Dollar 0.01369 T&T Dollar 0.29705 12 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline March 18, 2021 INSURANCE CORPORATION OF BARBADOS LIMITED 3426 2 1.99 2 0 BARBADOS FARMS LIMITED 1 0.68 0.68 0.68 0.28 Four securities advanced and four traded firm as 3,433 shares traded on the Regular Market, with a total value of $6,858.71. Insurance CAVE SHEPHERD AND COMPANY LIMITED 1 4.1 4.1 4.1 0 Corporation of Barbados Limited was the volume leader trading 3,426 shares at a high of $2.00 and a low of $1.99 before closing firm FIRSTCARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK 1 1.8 1.8 1.8 0 at $2.00. They were followed by Barbados Farms Limited and Cave Shepherd and Company Limited which traded 1 share each, EPPLEY C’BEAN PROPERTY FUND SCC - DEV FUND 1 0.16 0.16 0.16 0 respectively. EPPLEY C’BEAN PROPERTY FUND SCC - VAL FUND 1 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.01 GODDARD ENTERPRISES LIMITED 1 2.2 2.2 2.2 0.05 ONE CARIBBEAN MEDIA LIMITED 1 2.2 2.2 2.2 0.04

BARBADOS STOCK EXCHANGE Fixed Income Market BARBADOS STOCK EXCHANGE Security Volume GOB Series B 135249.33 SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Deposit Receipts Thursday March 18, 2021 Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $21.41 $21.55 $0.14 DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE

ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.02 $0.30 8,080 10,498

BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 70 - INDICES Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES March 18, 2021 March 17, 2021 Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - Local 2,454.38 2,444.02 9.36 Cross-list 1140.86 933.43 207.43 Barbados Farms Limited 18-Mar-21 1 0.68 0.68 $0.40 0.68 $0.28 $0.35 $0.68 1,000 25,341 Composite 601.13 595.77 5.36 Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 18-Mar-21 1 4.1 4.1 $4.10 $4.10 0 $4.00 $4.10 72 1,099 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) FirstCaribbean International Bank 18-Mar-21 1 1.8 1.8 $1.80 $1.80 0 - - $1.80 14,250 TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES March 18, 2021 March 17, 2021 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 18-Mar-21 1 0.16 0.16 $0.16 $0.16 0.16 - $0.16 - 5,065 Local 4,933.50 4,914.68 18.82 - Dev Fund Cross-list 145.67 119.19 26.49 Composite 5,079.17 5,033.87 45.31 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 18-Mar-21 1 0.57 0.57 $0.56 $0.57 0.01 $0.56 $0.57 40000 999 1,000 -Value Fund MUTUAL FUND March 18, 2021 Goddard Enterprises Limited 18-Mar-21 1 2.2 2.2 $2.15 $2.2 0.05 $2.10 $2.20 17,805 3,475 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV CHANGE Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 18-Mar-21 3426 2 1.99 $2.00 $2.00 0 $1.78 $2.00 78 19274 12-Mar-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.2348 0.0206 12-Mar-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2592 0.0011 One Caribbean Media Limited 18-Mar-21 1 2.2 2.2 $1.80 $2.20 0.4 - $2.20 - 999 12-Mar-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.67149 -0.0005 05-Mar-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.4913 6.4913 6.4913 -0.0965 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 05-Mar-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.0953 0.0019 05-Mar-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0200 0.0009 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - -- $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - 28-Feb-21 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.6018 5.6018 5.4998 0.0320 West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Mar-21 - - - $31.25 $31.25 - $31.35 - 100 - 28-Feb-21 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 1.0369 1.0369 1.0162 0.0128 28-Feb-21 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUND m 1.6427 1.6427 1.6098 -0.0002 Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $20.94 $21.28 $0.34 $30.00 - 50 - 12-Mar-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.783 0.05 12-Mar-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.70 0.05 3433 12-Mar-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.98 0.00 TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS * = Security is Trading X-Div ENTRY COSTS. m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly *+* = Security is Suspended

** = Rights Issued Fixed Income Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size GOB Series B 15-Mar-21 $60.00 $60.00 $60.00 42,899 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 NOTICES GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 $70.00 19,617 Emera Incorporated - Directors have fixed March 22nd, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders NEWS entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on May 20th, 2021. BICO Limited – Notice is hereby given that the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Annual General Meeting of the FedEx profit soars Shareholders of BICO Limited is scheduled to take place on April 13th, 2021 at the Company’s registered address: Harbor Industrial Park, Bridgetown, BB11145 at 5:00 p.m. with pandemic-fuelled West India Biscuit Company Limited – Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders of West India Biscuit Company Limited, originally scheduled on February 12th, 2021, is now set to take place on March 26th, 2021 at the Hilton Barbados Resort, Needhams Point, Bridgetown at 11:00 a.m. delivery demand US delivery firm FedEx Memphis-based company BSE NOTICES Corp on Thursday said soared 153% to $939 million, quarterly profit jumped or $3.47 per share, versus the COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE more than expected on year-earlier period. Analysts higher prices and surging expected earnings of $3.23 Kindly note that effective March 15th, 2021, the offices of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. (BCSDI) remain closed in accordance with the recommendations contained in volume from pandemic- per share, according to Directive No. 6 issued by the Government of Barbados for the period March 15th, 2021 to March 26th, 2021. fueled home e-commerce Refinitiv data. deliveries. Revenue for the quarter Kindly note, however, that while our physical offices will be closed, all trading, clearing and settlement operations will FedEx shares have more ended February 28 grew 23% remain fully operational as staff will all be working remotely during this period. While our offices are closed, we remain than doubled in price since to $21.5 billion. easily accessible via email. For Stock Exchange related queries, kindly email us at [email protected] and for the pandemic forced The results came after Shareholder related queries contact us at [email protected]. government officials to severe winter weather in We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding and trust that all and sundry remain safe during this time. shutter businesses and issue February affected operations stay-at-home orders a year at key facilities including at TRADING SUSPENSION ago. hubs in Memphis, Yesterday they jumped Indianapolis and North The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject 4.3% to $274.84 in extended Texas. to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks trading after founder and FedEx and rival United Holdings Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. Chief Executive Frederick Parcel Service hiked prices Smith said he expected to shelter profits after the The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados demand for the firm’s e- pandemic hammered its Dairy Industries Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. commerce and international high-margin shipments express services to “remain between businesses and The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement very high for the foreseeable unleashed a flood of effected by way of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and future”. deliveries of online orders – outstanding shares in Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the Fiscal third-quarter including bulky items like security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. adjusted net income at the exercise bikes and sofas. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 13

Protesters stage jail break Demonstrations rack Haitian capital PORT-AU-PRINCE – murders as gangs have gained the officers had been detained. Trainee police officers joined government of not sufficiently Protesters freed four police power, turning ever more areas Lawyers for the officers said in in the jail break while citizens equipping the police to confront officers from behind bars in of the capital and other cities a statement they were victims took to the street for a fifth day gangs, even if it has slightly Haiti’s capital on into no-go areas. of the politicization of Haiti’s to block roads with vehicles, raised its budget for the police Wednesday, local media Masked, heavily-armed police force and the failures of debris and burning tires, also this year. reported, as demonstrations members of the Fantom 509 its justice system. vandalizing a car dealership. They also accuse it of over a botched police raid group, who describe themselves The Fantom 509 members President Jovenel Moise fostering gang activity either by on a gang stronghold and as disaffected police officers and said they were also protesting declared on Wednesday a state design, to intimidate opponents, anger at state authorities ex-officers, told local media they the fact authorities had not of emergency in the worst gang- or simply by inaction. Gang roiled the city for a fifth day. believed their colleagues had recovered the bodies of four controlled areas for one month leaders or even former A deepening economic and been unjustly detained in a policemen who died last Friday in order to allow state security government officials implicated political crisis in the poorest Port-au-Prince police station. in a botched attack on a gang forces to regain control of the in massacres in opposition country in the Americas has led The police had no immediate stronghold where kidnapping situation. strongholds have not been to a surge in kidnappings and comment on the incident or why victims are often held. Critics accuse the arrested. China to assist Trinidad with COVID vaccines TRINIDAD – China is stepping in to assist Trinidad and Tobago’s access to COVID-19 vaccines. The China-made vaccine manufactured by Sinopharm is currently awaiting the World Health Organisation (WHO) approval but access to it was discussed during a virtual meeting between Prime From left: Minister of Health Terrence Deyalsingh, left, Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Dr Amery Browne, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and Minister Dr Keith Rowley, Minister of National Security Stuart Young and Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister Maurice China President Xi Jinping on Suite listen to the call between PM Rowley and China President Xi Jinping via teleconference at the Diplomatic Centre, St Wednesday. Ann’s, on Wednesday. Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Amery Browne was also present Browne said President Xi future.” Qiu, had ”been an excellent and friendship enjoyed by the two at the meeting and said the thanked Prime Minister Rowley “Prime Minister Rowley proactive partner in working Heads of Government over the discussion was very productive. “for our provision of a reaffirmed the critical with us to organise and years,” he said. “The meeting also included consignment of PPE to China importance of equitable access coordinate this important He said both leaders also specific dialogue on COVID-19 early in the year 2020” and to approved COVID-19 vaccines meeting.” acknowledged the longstanding and on ongoing efforts by both “took the opportunity to for the people of our nation and “This morning’s discussions bonds between T&T and China, nations to control the infection indicate that China would region and across the globe,” were enhanced by our strong “and explored opportunities to and keep our respective respectfully assist our national Browne said. history of good relations with further advance our bilateral populations safe,” Browne told efforts to access approved Browne said China’s the People’s Republic of China, cooperation across a range of Guardian Media. COVID-19 vaccines in the near Ambassador here in T&T, Fang and further enhanced by the sectors.” United States agency lowers Bermuda’s COVID-19 risk assessment HAMILTON,Bermuda – Health Bermuda remains moderate – the US Consulate recommended government health agency people have died. Ministry officials announced six however, the CDC currently caution when travelling abroad increased Bermuda’s rating to A total of five of the latest cases new COVID-19 cases in recommends avoiding non- because of the “unpredictable” “high-risk” level 4 after a surge in were on-island transmissions Bermuda after the island essential travel,” a consulate nature of the pandemic. COVID-19 cases in December.In with known contacts. received an upgrade boost from spokeswoman said. “As conditions evolve, the CDC late October,when the island had One case, a resident with links the United States Centres for “The US Consulate continues and Department of State will recorded fewer than 200 cases, to earlier cases and no travel Disease Control (CDC). to engage with the CDC and regularly update advice to US the CDC gave Bermuda a “very history in the last 14 days, is Bermuda, which has recorded State Department, providing travellers,” she said. low” risk assessment. under investigation. more than 700 cases of the updates on Bermuda’s status Premier David Burt said last The latest six cases, taking the There are now 19 active cases disease, was moved from level 4 during the pandemic, safety month the island’s low number of island’s total of confirmed cases with 18 being monitored by to level 3, the US Consulate here protocols and testing regime for cases deserved a level 2 grade in the past 12 months to 713, public health officials. The other said on Monday. residents and visitors.” from the CDC. were found in a batch of 1,385 is in hospital, but not in intensive “The COVID-19 risk in The spokesperson added that The Atlanta-based test results, officials said.Twelve care.

Mostly sunny

High Tide (First) 6:42 High tide (Second) 19:59 London 10 Overcast / Light Rain Yesterday: 0.0 mm Boston 08 Overcast / Rain Low Tide (First) 0:37 For the month: 14.5 mm Max: 29.1 °C Montreal 06 Fair Low tide (Second) 13:45 For the year: 189.6 mm Min: 23.6 °C Toronto 06 Overcast New York 07 Overcast/ Light Rain / Mist Miami 28 Cloudy 6:03 am 12:09 pm 14 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate CARICOM, Kenya move to strengthen ties with first Kenyan Ambassador THE Caribbean Community (Caricom) yesterday accredited the first Ambassador of Kenya to the region, marking a further step in their rapidly growing relationship. Caricom Secretary- General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, in receiving the credentials of Anthony Mwaniki Muchiri, said the occasion added a new chapter to the 2019 milestone year when Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta paid visits to Jamaica and Barbados, and the Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley paid a reciprocal visit to Kenya. Caribbean Community During President (Caricom) yesterday Kenyatta’s visit, he also accredited Anthony had discussions with the Mwaniki Muchiri, the then Caricom Chairman, first Ambassador of Prime Minister Allen Kenya to the region. Chastanet of Saint Lucia, and the Caricom and a Caricom and Africa Kenyan foreign ministers Summit in 2020 had to also engaged each other. be put on hold because of “One of the positive the COVID-19 pandemic, outcomes of the visit and but Caricom Heads of those discussions is the Government have also provision by Kenya of agreed to seek office space in Nairobi to collaboration with the accommodate Caricom African Union (AU) to co- representation,” sponsor a proposed Ambassador LaRocque Summit with European said in the accreditation Heads of Government on ceremony. the issue of Reparations. “Prime Minister The secretary-general Mottley accepted the also noted Caricom’s generous offer during her appreciation for the visit and arrangements African Union’s offer for are being finalised so it to participate in the that the office could be African Medical Supplies occupied in the near Platform (AMSP), which future. I look forward to would give the region signing the tenancy access to vaccines at agreement in the coming affordable prices. weeks,” he added. He said member states Caricom and Kenya are putting the are also actively arrangements in place to considering a draft benefit from ‘this gesture Memorandum of of African-Caricom Understanding for the solidarity’. establishment of a Caricom would also Consultation and welcome Kenya’s support Cooperation Mechanism in its call on the World between the two sides. Health Organization This in recognition of (WHO) to convene a the significant scope for Global Summit to stronger collaboration address the inequity in and cooperation, vaccine access and particularly in the distribution, he said. areas of trade and Ambassador Muchiri investment, people-to- stated his commitment to people ex-changes, and continue advancing his sustainable country’s efforts to help development. confront the challenges Plans for Kenya to host facing the two regions. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 15

OECS heads of government to Paraguay lawmakers meet with WHO Director-General vote down CASTRIES, St Lucia (OECS) – The Organisation of Eastern impeachment Caribbean States (OECS) Commission announces the convening of the 6th Meeting bid against of the OECS Authority, to be held under the chairmanship president of Roosevelt Skerrit, prime minister of the Commonwealth of Dominica. Over Government’s The meeting will be held today, and will receive the director- handling of pandemic general of the World Health ASUNCION – Paraguayan Organisation (WHO) Dr Tedros opposition lawmakers lost a bid Adhanom Ghebreyesus and his on Wednesday to impeach team. President Mario Abdo over the Director-General of the OECS, government’s handling of the Dr Didacus Jules, is anticipating coronavirus pandemic in the a productive outcome with the South American country. WHO and hopes that this Abdo’s conservative meeting will help bridge the government has faced fierce vaccine gap for OECS Member protests in recent weeks as a States. surge in COVID-19 cases has “The special meeting of the left hospitals on the brink of OECS heads of government with collapse and out of drugs, while WHO is critical for two main Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit (left) Director-General of (WHO) Dr Tedros the country has been slow to reasons: it will allow the OECS to Adhanom Ghebreyesus (centre) and Director-General of the OECS, Dr Didacus Jules. secure vaccines. join with director-general Tedros Opposition lawmakers in the in advocating for more equitable support of the WHO through honoured to work side by side invaluable partner to the OECS lower house of deputies put access to vaccines and unlocking the Access to COVID-19 Tools with OECS heads of government and CARICOM, facilitating access forward the motion to impeach supplies for developing states. (ACT) Accelerator. in fighting the pandemic and am to African medical supplies Abdo and his vice-president. This Special Session will give the The Pan-American Health committed to ensuring equitable platforms and brokering Fifty-three votes were OECS Authority an opportunity Organisation (PAHO) director,Dr access to vaccines, diagnostics and donations of personal protective needed for the motion to pass to explore approaches to filling Carissa Etienne, as well as the treatments to support Caribbean equipment (PPEs) to the and in the end, the president the gap between vaccines executive director of the communities. Collaborating with Caribbean region. Shortly after was thrown a lifeline by a accessible through the COVAX Caribbean Public Health Agency partners through the Access to his appointment to the director- voting bloc within the ruling Facility and bilateral sources,and (CARPHA) Dr Joy St John, will COVID-19 Tools Accelerator and general, Dr Tedros held a meeting Colorado Party led by former highlighting the health needs of join the discussion to speak to its COVAX Facility, WHO is with the ministers of health of the President Horacio Cartes. our Member States. Finding a critical public health concerns working to ensure vaccines are OECS in Geneva in 2018 to “Just because you have a timely solution is critical from a related to combat the pandemic. distributed as rapidly and understand the health sector majority does not always mean public health standpoint but will Ahead of the meeting, Dr Tedros equitably as possible, to help challenges of the region. In that you are right,” said opposition also provide the building blocks to said: “Many Caribbean States bring the pandemic under control same year in Grenada, the WHO deputy Edgar Acosta during resuscitate, repair and rebuild the have led the way in protecting in the Caribbean and held the 3rd Global Conference the plenary session. “They may economies across our region.” their populations from COVID- globally.” on Climate Change and have won the political trial but Another key point for the 19 with careful implementation Throughout the COVID-19 Health alongside the OECS 5th they lost the citizen’s trial.” Authority will be to explore the of public health measures. I am pandemic, the WHO has been an Council of health ministers. Those who argued against the motion said the country needed stability to move forward with the purchase of US Coast Guard transfers smugglers and over vaccines and medicine critical to address the COVID-19 crisis. US$6.6 M in seized cocaine in C’bean Sea The failed push will nonetheless pile further SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The Force (OCDETF) and High Caribbean Air and Marine pressure on Abdo’s United States Coast Guard has Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Branch maritime patrol aircraft government, which has been transferred custody of three (HIDTA) programs, and the detected a suspicious go-fast forced to shuffle several suspected smugglers and an Caribbean Corridor Strike Force vessel in international waters ministers, including the health estimated US$6.6 million in (CCSF), the US Coast Guard just off Mona Island. minister and chief of staff, to seized cocaine to US federal said. “The Coast Guard Cutter help calm public anger. agents at Coast Guard Base San “This successful interdiction is Valiant diverted in pursuit and, Shortly after the result came Juan, following the interdiction the result of the strong with the assistance of the through, police dispersed of a drug smuggling vessel in the partnerships and excellent cutter’s small boat, successfully stone-throwing protesters with Mona Passage, near Mona coordination achieved daily interdicted the suspect go-fast rubber bullets and water Island, Puerto Rico, in the between Department of vessel,” it said. cannons near the congressional Caribbean Sea. Homeland Security and Following the interdiction, headquarters in the historic The US Coast Guard said on Department of Justice law more than 236 kilograms of center of Asunción. Tuesday that the suspected enforcement agencies combating cocaine was seized. A smaller group of protesters smugglers are males,Dominican transnational smuggling “The crew of the Cutter Captain Gregory Magee, attacked the headquarters of Republic nationals, who now face organizations in the Caribbean,” Valiant embarked the three men Sector San Juan Commander the ruling party, starting a criminal charges by US said Captain Gregory Magee, from the go-fast vessel and later small fire in part of the Department of Justice Sector San Juan Commander. transferred them, along with the Puerto Rico “focusing on building which was later prosecution partners in the US “These efforts serve to protect seized contraband, to the Coast Caribbean and South American- brought under control by police Attorney’s Office for the District the nation’s southernmost Guard Cutter Reef Shark for based Transnational Criminal with no major damage or of Puerto Rico. maritime border and our fellow transport and offload in San Organizations involved in the injuries reported. The interdiction resulted from citizens in Puerto Rico and the Juan, Puerto Rico, where CCSF maritime and air smuggling Paraguay’s health ministry multi-agency efforts in support US Virgin Islands from this federal agents received custody,” shipments of narcotics from reported a record daily high of of US Southern Command’s nefarious threat.” the US Coast Guard said. Puerto Rico to the Continental 2,540 COVID-19 cases on enhanced counter-narcotics The US Coast Guard said the It said the CCSF is a multi- US and in the laundering of drug Wednesday, bringing the total operations in the Western bust occurred Tuesday night, agency Organized Crime Drug proceeds using bulk cash number of infections in the Hemisphere, the Organized after the aircrew of a Customs Enforcement Task Force group smuggling and sophisticated landlocked Latin nation to Crime Drug Enforcement Task and Border Protection operating in the District of laundering activities”. 185,888 and 3,588 people dead. 16 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Atlanta police search for motive in spa murders as Asian Americans decry attacks ATLANTA – Atlanta police on former President Donald Trump, started Thursday were considering all mo- calling the coronavirus the “China virus”, tives including hate crime in the “the China plague” and even “kung flu”. fatal shootings of Asian women at President Joe Biden ordered that the two spas in the city as a US law- US flag be flown at half-staff at the maker said the Asian-American White House to honour the victims of community was “screaming out for Tuesday’s rampage. He and Vice help” to combat discrimination. President Kamala Harris will visit Robert Aaron Long has been charged Atlanta today to offer support to the with murdering four people at the spas Asian-American community. in Atlanta and four more in a spa in Hampton said Long patronised the two Cherokee County about 40 miles (64 km) Atlanta establishments he is accused of to its north on Tuesday.Six of the victims attacking using a 9mm gun. Authorities were women of Asian descent. are not ready to release the names of the “Our investigation is looking at every- victims, he said. thing, so nothing is off the table for our Captain Jay Baker of the Cherokee investigation,” Atlanta Deputy Police County Sheriff’s Department said on Chief Charles Hampton told a news Wednesday that Long had confessed to conference in response to a question the shootings and indicated he had a sex about whether police were looking at the addiction and “wanted to eliminate” the killings as hate crimes. Flowers and a poster are left outside Gold Spa following the deadly shootings in temptation the establishments repre- Long, a 21-year-old white male, sug- Atlanta, Georgia, US on March 17, 2021. sented to him. gested to investigators that a sex addic- A former roommate who spent several tion led him to violence. Lawmakers and pain and for the last year we’ve been Francisco. months living with Long in a halfway anti-racism advocates have speculated screaming out for help,” Democratic Hate crimes against Asian Americans house for recovering addicts told Reuters the killings were motivated at least in Representative Grace Meng, who is of rose by 149% in 2020 in 16 major cities Long had been treated for sex addiction, part by anti-Asian sentiments. Taiwanese descent, told a House of compared with 2019, according to the was “deeply religious” and would become In Washington, US lawmakers, profes- Representatives subcommittee. Center for the Study of Hate and “very emotionally distraught that he sors and actor Daniel Dae Kim said the The Georgia killings have prompted Extremism. frequented” spas for “explicitly sexual Asian-American community was reeling police departments across the country Civil rights advocates have connected activity”. from a year of heightened anti-Asian to step up patrols and visibility in Asian- the rise in incidents to the COVID-19 Long was headed for Florida when he attacks. American communities around New pandemic, which originated in China. was apprehended, perhaps to carry out “Our community is bleeding, we are in York City, Chicago, Atlanta and San Some Americans, including Republican further shootings, authorities said. US to share 4 million doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine with Mexico, Canada WASHINGTON – The United States The so-called “releasable” vaccines plans to send roughly 4 million doses should be ready for use once they of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine arrive in Mexico and Canada. Under that it is not using to Mexico and the deal, the United States will share Canada in loan deals with the two doses with the two countries now with countries, bowing to pressure to share the understanding that they will pay vaccine with its allies. the United States back with doses in Mexico will receive 2.5 million doses return. The official said that would of the vaccine and Canada is to receive take place later this year. 1.5 million doses, White House spokes- Psaki said the United States had woman Jen Psaki said. access to 7 million releasable doses of “It is not fully finalised yet but it is the AstraZeneca vaccine but had no our aim,” she told a daily briefing. plans to share the vaccine with other The Biden administration has come countries at this time. under pressure from countries around “We ... have a number of requests the world to share vaccines, particu- from a range of countries around the larly its stock of AstraZeneca, which is world and certainly we’ll continue authorised for use elsewhere but not those conversations,” she said. yet in the United States. Asked why Mexico and Canada were AstraZeneca has millions of doses chosen, the administration official made in a US facility, and has said said: “They are our neighbours, they that it would have 30 million shots are our partners.” ready at the beginning of April. The company’s shares rose slightly after ‘More work to do’ Reuters first reported the news. Mexican President Andres Manuel The deal to share the vaccine does Lopez Obrador had requested the not affect President Joe Biden’s plans vaccine previously. The official said to have vaccine available for all adults the countries were in touch about the in the United States by the end of May, vaccine loan. “We’ve been working a senior administration official said, through the diplomatic channels,” and it does not reduce the supply of he said. available vaccine in the United States. “We’re having positive conversations Two officials said the vaccine would with the US. Those conversations are be delivered in “short order” once the fairly advanced but there’s more work deal was completed, but they declined to do,” a senior Canadian government to give a more specific timetable. source said. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 17

Eleven jurors seated for Minneapolis ex-police officer’s trial TWO women on nates, will weigh what is The first of the two police brutality. Thursday became the seen as a landmark case women seated as jurors The juror, described in 10th and 11th jurors concerning how US law on Thursday was ques- court records as a white seated in the trial of enforcement polices tioned for an hour woman in her 50s, said Derek Chauvin, the Black people. by Hennepin County she was a registered former Minneapolis Chauvin, 44, has District Judge Peter nurse who lived alone. police officer charged pleaded not guilty to Cahill, Chauvin’s lead When asked by in George Floyd’s second-degree murder, lawyer and a lawyer Chauvin’s lead lawyer, deadly arrest last year, third-degree murder and working for the Eric Nelson, if she a process complicated manslaughter charges Minnesota district attor- thought it was acceptable by the city’s announce- arising from Floyd’s ney’s office to assess her to sometimes “second ment of a $27 million death, and faces up to 40 impartiality during a guess” a police officer’s settlement with years in prison if con- process known as voir judgement, she said yes. Floyd’s family. victed of the most serious dire. “They are human,” she The two women, one charge. The woman, as with said. white and one Black, Chauvin, who is white, virtually all potential ju- The judge has prom- joined a group of jurors placed his knee on rors screened, told the ised all jurors anonymity Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police offi- diverse in race and age, Floyd’s neck for about court she had seen some for the duration of the cer facing murder charges in the death of George drawn from in and nine minutes as Floyd, a of the video showing the trial. Floyd, is introduced to potential jurors during jury around Minnesota’s 46-year-old Black man in arrest, which prompted Chauvin, dressed in a selection in his trial in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US, largest city. The jury, handcuffs, begged for his protests in many US suit and tie, took exten- on March 15, 2021 in this courtroom sketch from a which will consist of 12 life during an arrest on cities and in other coun- sive notes on a yellow video feed of the proceedings. jurors and two alter- May 25, 2020. tries against racism and legal pad. EU’s drug regulator backs ‘safe and effective’ AstraZeneca vaccine AMSTERDAM – The France, Germany and should continue to be AstraZeneca vaccine in France, the reputation in older people. EU’s drug watchdog said Italy, have stopped ad- rolled out. France and Germany of the AstraZeneca shot News reports of strong on Thursday it is still ministering the shot Even before the scare were lower than for those was dented by a decision side effects among front- convinced the benefits of pending the review. over blood clots a YouGov developed by Pfizer and to initially authorise the line workers also slowed AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 The suspensions were poll published on March its partner BioNTech and vaccine only for people take-up in Germany, vaccine outweigh the the latest blow to the 7 showed perceptions Moderna. aged under 65 due to a causing doses to go un- risks following an investi- European Union’s inocu- of safety for the In Germany and lack of data on its efficacy used. gation into reports of lation campaign, which blood clots that prompted has lagged the United more than a dozen na- States and former EU tions to suspend its use. member Britain. European Medicines Many governments Agency (EMA) director have said the decision to Emer Cooke said the pause inoculations was watchdog could not defin- out of an abundance of itively rule out a link be- caution. But experts have tween blood clot incidents said political interference and the vaccine in its in- could undermine public vestigation into 30 cases confidence in vaccina- of a rare blood clotting tions as governments condition. struggle to tame more in- But she said the “clear” fectious variants. conclusion of the review Some scientists said was that the benefits in the agency’s endorsement protecting people from should be enough to allay the risk of death or hospi- EU governments’ con- talisation outweighs the cerns. possible risks. The issue “I hope that any con- deserves further analy- cerns about potential sis, the EMA said. links between the “This is a safe and ef- Oxford-AstraZeneca fective vaccine,” Cooke COVID-19 vaccine can told a briefing. now be discarded given The agency will, how- the positive verdicts ever, update its guidance delivered by the EMA, to include an explanation the WHO and the for the patient about the MHRA,” said Royal potential risks and in in- Pharmaceutical Society formation for healthcare Chief Scientist Professor professionals, she said. Gino Martini. “If it were me, I would Since the agency’s en- be vaccinated tomorrow,” dorsement, Germany, Cooke said. France, Italy and Spain The EMA has been are among countries that under growing pressure say they will resume to clear up safety con- using the vaccine. cerns after a small num- The AstraZeneca shot ber of reports in recent was developed with weeks of bleeding, blood Oxford University, and clots and low platelet Oxford’s vaccine trial counts in people who chief welcomed the state- have received the shot. ments by European and At least 13 European British medical regul- countries, including ators that the vaccine 18 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Tanzania’s president dies aged 61 after COVID rumours TANZANIA’S President He died on Wednesday on state television. lating about his health. firmed. John Magufuli has died from heart complications Mr. Magufuli had not Opposition politicians Mr. Magufuli was one of aged 61, the country’s at a hospital in Dar es been seen in public for said last week that he had Africa’s most prominent vice-president has an- Salaam, Samia Suluhu more than two weeks, and contracted COVID-19, but coronavirus sceptics, and nounced. Hassan said in an address rumours had been circu- this has not been con- called for prayers and herbal-infused steam ther- apy to counter the virus. “It is with deep regret that I inform you that today... we lost our brave leader, the president of the Republic of Tanzania, John Pombe Magufuli,” Vice-President Hassan said in the announcement. She said there would be 14 days of national mourn- ing and flags would fly at half mast. According to Tanzania’s The 61-year-old presi- constitution, Ms. Hassan dent died from heart will be sworn in as the new complications on president within 24 hours Wednesday. (PHOTO: AFP) and should serve the re- mainder of Mr. Magufuli’s “To spread rumours that five-year term which he he’s sick smacks of hate,” began last year. Mr. Majaliwa said at the Mr. Magufuli was last time. seen in public on 27 Mr. Magufuli was de- February, but Prime clared president on his Minister Kassim Majaliwa 56th birthday in October insisted last week that the 2015. He was elected for a president was “healthy second term following a and working hard”. disputed poll last year. He blamed the rumours He was hailed for his of the president’s ill-health anti-corruption stance on “hateful” Tanzanians during his time in office, living abroad. but he was also accused of But opposition leader cracking down on dissent Tundu Lissu told the BBC and curtailing certain free- that his sources had told doms. him Mr. Magufuli was His critics agree that Mr. being treated in hospital Magufuli contributed to for coronavirus in Kenya. Tanzania’s development. When COVID-19 ar- He invested in large infra- rived in Tanzania, structure projects such as Mr. Magufuli called on a standard-gauge railway people to go to churches to connect the country and mosques to pray. with its neighbours, major “Coronavirus, which is a highways, and a bus sys- devil, cannot survive in the tem in the commercial hub body of Christ... It will of Dar es Salaam. burn instantly,” he said. He also increased elec- He declared Tanzania tricity production, reduc- “COVID-19 free” last June, ing the need for power saying the virus had been rationing. eradicated by three days But it is his approach of national prayer. to COVID-19 that many He also mocked the effi- analysts say will define cacy of masks, expressed his legacy. doubts about testing, and teased neighbouring African leaders pay countries which imposed tribute health measures to curb Some African leaders have the virus. come out to pay tribute. “Countries in Africa will Kenya’s President be coming here to buy food Uhuru Kenyatta said: in the years to come… they “I have lost a friend, col- will be suffering because league and visionary ally,” of shutting down their and declared a seven-day economy,” he said, accord- period of national mourn- ing to the Associated ing in Kenya. Press. Former Nigerian Tanzania has not pub- President Goodluck lished details of its coron- Jonathan called Mr. avirus cases since May, Magufuli a “partner in and the government has democracy” and a “patriot refused to purchase vac- who loved his country”. cines. But Tanzanian opposi- On Monday, police said tion leader Tundu Lissu they had arrested four peo- told the BBC that Mr. ple on suspicion of spread- Magufuli’s “politics, poli- ing rumours on social cies and COVID denial- media that the president ism” had “driven the coun- was ill. try towards disaster”. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 19

Biden restores climate change page to EPA website, reversing Trump WASHINGTON – The Biden and Republican ex- of this crisis, it’s critical attended his first Biden US Environmental President Donald Trump that Americans have administration climate Protection Agency re- on climate change that is access to information and change task force meeting stored a page contain- likely to result in sweeping resources so that we can on Thursday led by former ing key climate change policy changes in the com- all play a role in protecting EPA Administrator and information to its ing years to tamp down on our environment, our Biden’s national climate public website on planet-warming emissions health, and vulnerable adviser Gina McCarthy. Thursday, four years from vehicles, power communities.” In January 2017, the after the Trump admin- plants, and industry. Regan is expected to Trump administration istration had removed “Climate facts are back play a key role in carrying had instructed EPA’s com- it as part of a strategy on EPA’s website where out Biden campaign prom- munications team here re- to downplay global they should be,” EPA ises of decarbonizing the move the agency website’s warming threats. Administrator Michael US electricity sector by climate change page, The move reflects the Regan said in a statement 2035 and steering the which contains links to massive gulf between provided to Reuters. economy to net zero emis- climate data, emissions Democratic President Joe “Considering the urgency sions across by 2050. He information and global warming programs. Trump was a vocal cli- Putin offers Biden public talks after US mate change sceptic and was seeking to maximise US fossil fuel production. president says he thinks he is a killer His two EPA administra- MOSCOW – President Wednesday that do it live, online, without tors – Scott Pruitt and Vladimir Putin said on prompted Russia to any delays but in an Andrew Wheeler – re- Thursday he and US recall its Washington open, direct discussion,” voked key climate regula- A screenshot shows the climate change web page of President Joe Biden ambassador for consul- Putin said, asked in a tions for power plants, the Environmental Protection Agency website, that should hold talks in tations, Biden said “I do” television interview drillers, industrial facili- was relaunched on March 18, 2021. In January 2017, coming days that would when asked if he be- about Biden’s comments. ties and vehicles during the Trump administration removed the agency’s ded- be broadcast live, after lieved Putin was a killer. The two leaders last their tenures. icated climate change web page, which contained Biden said he thought Putin said he had spoke by telephone on The Environmental links to scientific global warming research, as well the Russian leader was a last spoken to Biden by Jan. 26 soon after Biden Data & Governance as detailed data on emissions and other resources. killer and bilateral ties phone at the US presi- took office. Initiative (EDGI), which (PHOTO: EPA/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS) sank to a new post-Cold dent’s request and that Putin said he was tracked federal agency War low. he now proposed they ready to discuss bilateral websites’ mentions of Trump, found that the almost 40% between 2016 Putin, speaking on had another conver- relations with the climate change under use of the term decreased and 2020. television earlier on sation, on Friday or United States as well as Thursday, scathingly Monday, to be held by other issues such as re- responded to Biden’s re- video-link and broadcast gional conflicts “tomor- marks with the comment live. row or, say, on Monday”, that it takes one to know “I want to offer adding that he will be one. President Biden to con- having a break some- In an ABC News tinue our discussion but where in Russia’s Taiga interview broadcast on on the condition that we over the weekend. France locks down Paris as third wave forces tougher curbs in some areas PARIS – France’s prime where the incidence rate ordering a nation-wide minister on Thursday im- surpasses 400 in every lockdown, though the posed a month-long lock- 100,000 inhabitants. Paris region is home to down on Paris and parts of Prime Minister Jean nearly one fifth of the pop- the north after a faltering Castex told a press confer- ulation and accounts for vaccine rollout and spread ence France was now in one third of economic ac- of highly contagious coro- the grip of a third wave. tivity. navirus variants forced “The moment has come A nation-wide nightly President Emmanuel to go further,” he said. curfew in place since mid- Macron to shift course. The lockdown will kick December remains in Since late January, in from Friday at mid- place, though it will start when he defied the calls night on the 16 hardest- an hour later, at 7 p.m. of scientists and some in hit departments in the The government had no his government to lock the greater Paris region, the regrets about not locking country down, Macron has northern Hauts-de- down earlier in the year, said he would do whatever France region, Seine et Castex said. it took to keep the euro Marne and the southern “It was the right deci- zone’s second largest econ- Alpes-Maritimes zone. sion in January.We would omy as open as possible. Schools will stay open have had a three-month However, this week he and people will be allowed lockdown. We did well not ran out of options just as to exercise outdoors to do so.” France and other within a 10 km (6.2 miles) Castex said France European countries sus- radius of their homes. would resume inocula- pended use of the People living in these tions with the AstraZenca vaccine. areas will not be allowed AstraZeneca vaccine after The rapid spread of the to travel to other parts of the European Medicines variant first detected in France without a com- Agency said it was safe, Britain, now accounting pelling reason. and that he would get the for three quarters of all Shops selling essential shot today. cases in France, has filled goods and bookstores will “I am confident public intensive care wards, no- stay open. trust in the vaccine will be tably in the Paris region Macron stopped short of restored,” he said. 20 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Stars condemn violence The evolution of Fenty against Asian Americans By Krystal Penny Bowen Rihanna, first black Caribbean icon AT AGE 33, Rihanna is following Atlanta shootings making waves beyond her to dominate black beauty industry CELEBRITIES have My heart breaks for the Asian music. In 2019, the pop condemned violence against community. Sending prayers icon was America’s richest Asian Americans following a to all affected by yesterday s female musician earning shooting in the US state of tragedy. 570 million dollars through Georgia which left eight My heart breaks for the Fenty Beauty 2018, an people including six women of Asian community. Sending amazing feat for a young Asian descent dead. prayers to all affected by brand. Robert Aaron Long, 21, has yesterday’s tragedy. Her story is incredible, as been charged with eight #StopAsianHate the Barbadian left these counts of murder after pic.twitter.com/KfUvtqmgTp shores to start her music allegedly opening fire at three J anet Jackson career just sixteen years ago. massage parlours in the (@JanetJackson) March 17, She is one of the most Atlanta area. 2021 recognised artistes of the Police said Long, who is century as a young, Afro- white, told them he had a Filmmaker Ava DuVernay Caribbean female and now a sexual addiction and have not shared tips for tackling anti- mogul in the beauty and confirmed whether Tuesday’s Asian hatred beyond social fashion industry. attack was racially motivated. media. The shootings come amid a She said: Examine Early Black Innovators rise in attacks on Asian people stereotypes you hold about Paved The Way in the US. Asian people. Work to But her ability to dominate Advocacy group Stop AAPI dismantle that within this industry would not be Hate said it received more yourself. Raise your voice possible without the early than 2,800 reports of hate anywhere that anti-Asian pioneers in Black haircare, incidents involving Asians in sentiment is present. skincare, and fashion. The America last year, with Normalise calling it out. irony is, the first to recognise activists saying the attacks the needs of black women for are often linked to rhetoric Chat show host Jimmy cosmetics was Anthony blaming victims for the spread Fallon tweeted: There is no Overton who opened Overton of Covid-19. place for racism, violence, Hygienic Manufacturing Co. Following the shootings in prejudice, or misogyny of any in Kansas in 1898 (Racked). Georgia, celebrities shared kind, towards any one. My The lawyer with a chemistry messages supporting the heart is with the victims and background was able to Asian community and their families. capitalise on an untapped and condemning violence against mostly ignored demographic them. Soul singer Dionne Warwick of black and brown people. By A post shared by badgalriri wrote: How much longer are the start of the 20th century, (@badgalriri) we going to tolerate, a word I his company expanded its Rihanna said: What never use, this madness of product line to hair creams happened yesterday in Atlanta hate to continue!? and eye makeup as well as was brutal, tragic, and is How much longer are we producing makeup for lighter certainly not an isolated going to tolerate, a word I to darker skin tones. But incident by any means. never use, this madness of Rihanna would not have the AAPI hate has been hate to continue!? opportunity to dominate the rampantly perpetuated and #StopAsianHate black beauty market if it was it’s disgusting! I’m Dionne Warwick not for a black opera singer, heartbroken for the Asian (@dionnewarwick) March 17, Anita Patti Brown. She used community and my heart is 2021 her celebrity to market her with the loved ones of those cosmetics in the early 20th we lost yesterday.The hate Rapper and actor Common century. must stop. said an attack on one Since the late 1980s into She added the hashtag community is an attack on all 2010s celebrities placing their #ProtectAAPILives. AAPI of us and added: We’re brand on products often stands for Asian Americans Stronger Together. proved lucrative but short- and Pacific Islanders. lived. Most modern singers Lana Condor, the and music performers are Daniel Dae Kim, the South Vietnamese-born American selling their brands, using Korea-born, American star of actress, urged fans to check in their names to sell items from Hawaii Five-0, said: The race on their Asian friends. marijuana to headphones. of the person committing the Wake up... your Asian Rihanna who has produced From the beginning, the Barbadian songbird Rihanna has crime matters less than the friends and family are deeply multi-platinum songs and always emphasised the need to target all bodies, skin types simple fact that if you act with scared, horrified, sick to their albums throughout her career and genders. hate in your heart, you are stomachs and wildly angry. originally started on her path part of the problem. Please please please check in to businesswoman through brand earned 150 million emphasised the need to target And to those with the power on us, please please please her perfume line. This dollars. all bodies, skin types and to help and yet sit idly by, your stand with us. Please. Your occurred in 2011 when genders. This was evident in silence is complicity. Asian friend needs you, even if partnering with international Creating Inclusivity, Evolving her social media #StopAsianHate they aren’t publicly grieving beauty brand, Parlux. to Fenty Black Hair Line advertisements and on her https://t.co/0QaLoXhtP0 on social media. In six short years will come Today, the biggest beauty fashion runways. Daniel Dae Kim Lana Condor to Fenty Beauty and then company is Procter & Gamble This month, international (@danieldaekim) March 17, (@lanacondor) March 17, 2021 Fenty X Savage with an followed by L’Oréal. But even media reported that Rihanna 2021 emphasis on diversity and these two companies have filed for a trademark for a And Star Trek actor George inclusivity in the lingerie realised after insensitive Fenty Black hair product line. Oscar-winning actress Takei said: The best thing you department. Both ventures marketing and advertising If this is true, Rihanna would Gwyneth Paltrow said: I send can do today is to speak out have been successful even campaigns that they must have again broken another deep love to the Asian- against violence toward with the closure of the latter become more inclusive not record by successfully American community today. Asians in this country, by LVMH or Louis Vuitton in only by race but body types launching her music career You make our country better, especially if you yourself are February 2021. In 2020, sales and gender. From the and also making strides in the we love you. not Asian. Thank you to all for Fenty X Savage were up by beginning, the Barbadian black and American cosmetics, who use their platform to 200 percent and in 2019, the songbird has always hair, and beauty industry. Singer Janet Jackson wrote: spread support and love. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 21

Chatting with music producer Behind The Riddim premieres Shawn Layne about “Trident Pride” he first episode of Behind Behind Music a desire to attend the digital audio work software, technical coordinator, Shamar the Riddim was During the show, the virtual Combermere School. At the Pro Tools which he noted was Coombs to create the Tpublished on YouTube on audience learned five start of the programme, Layne the industry standard. With programme. March 13, the anniversary of unknown facts about Shawn also disclosed that during the hundreds of views on YouTube The musician explained in its creator, Randy Eastmond. Layne. He told Eastmond that pandemic and lockdown he so far, the feedback on the February’s interview that The show featured musician he has been a crocheter for the finished an e-book which is a programme has been positive through Quantum Shawn Layne of Front House past two decades. Layne also compilation of original and encouraging. Productions, the new Entertainment who dissected revealed that he is a National compositions for large In late February, Eastmond programme will showcase how he produced and arranged Independence Festival of ensembles featuring full spoke to The Barbados stories, tips, tricks, and the song, Trident Pride Creative Arts (NIFCA) orchestra and wind ensemble. Advocate about the locally techniques of local producers featuring local talents Nikita awardee in visual arts and At the end of the show, produced show. He explained and allow the audience to and Jamal Slocombe. The song music, a trained Cub scout Eastmond challenged Layne to that “Behind The Riddim” is learn more about the talented was written by Kevin leader, met Phantom of the make a beat in five minutes. expected to reveal the men and people working behind the ‘SluggyDan’ Watson. Opera’s British composer, Sir The episode lasted a little women behind our local and scenes. He hopes to expand Andrew Lloyd Webber during over 47 minutes and included regional music. Eastmond is and feature regional producers Learning About The Man his visit to Barbados, and had a presentation of Layne using working closely with the on the show.

Producer, musician and host of online show Behind the Riddim, Randy Eastmond (right) interviews colleague, Shawn Layne during the first episode over the weekend. Sean Paul releases monumental dancehall album ‘Live N Livin’ highlighting collaboration over confrontation “DANCEHALL is alive and cornerstone of the genre. With genre, and visits the island of to the Caribbean for feel-good well. Check the pulse. This a collection of traditional and Jamaica. It was clear to me music through Dreamstage’s album is one I hold very dear fresh sound of dancehall LIVE when he stated he wanted to superior hi-def visual virtual to my heart for many reasons. N LIVIN captures the essence be a part of this project I could concert stage that brings It’s the first album of mine of dancehall and the unity, not say no” says Sean Paul. dancehall ambassador Sean being released off my own which exists within the “Live N Livin is loaded with Paul and surprise musical label, Dutty Rock Productions, culture. collaborations demonstrating guests into homes where fans and a body of work which has Dancehall has recorded to the world the versatility and can dance like no one’s allowed me to work so closely tremendous success over the excellency of Jamaican watching in unison with with artists I revere in my years, with amazing fusion dancehall music. And most others. genre,” said Sean Paul. offered by the likes of Rihanna, important, it demonstrates He will perform live from the Grammy® Award-winning Justin Bieber, Sam Smith, and that unity can be achieved. sandy beaches of Jamaica on global megastar, genres like Reggaeton and Sean Paul could easily leaned Saturday,April 10. philanthropist, Sean Afro Beats. The genre has back and collect, but he chose www.dreamstage.live Paul release his seventh studio continued to impact the world to fight for the genre he loves album – LIVE N LIVIN – and Sean Paul aims to and address important issues Live N Livin album tracklist available on all digital highlight the significance of that have stopped dancehall 1. Buss A Bubble Remix - Sean Paul platforms on Friday, March dancehall while collaborating from reaching the top – where ft. Sotto Bless, Looga Man, Ras Ajai, Chi Grammy® Award-winning 12th. LIVE N LIVIN is with different talented artists. it belongs,” – Riddim Ching global megastar, produced by Dutty Rock The 16-track album was Magazine. Ching philanthropist, Sean Paul Productions and distributed by produced with a collaboration With over one year at home, 2. Boom - Sean Paul ft. Busy Signal ONErpm. over confrontation undertone, due to the pandemic, like 3. Space Ship – Sean Paul ft. Suku 11. Lion Heart – Sean Paul LIVE N LIVIN features 15 collabs and one single from many artists, Sean Paul has Ward 12. Guns of Navarone – Sean Paul ft. collaborations from 22 reggae Sean Paul. In the midst of this been unable to hit the stage 4. Real Steel – Sean Paul ft. Intence Jesse Royal, Mutabaruka & and dancehall powerhouses great body of work and tour vigorously as he is 5. The Plug – Sean Paul ft. Chi Ching Stonebwoy (Remix) like Buju Banton, Damian “Jr highlighting dancehall from used to. Using his time to Ching 13. Danger Zone – Sean Paul ft. Gong” Marley,Agent Sasco, Jamaica, Ghanian dancehall record two albums, ‘LIVE N 6. Dem Nuh Ready Yet – Sean Paul ft. Bugle, Scotto Bless Mavado, Busy Signal and artist Stonebwoy is also LIVIN’ & ‘Scorcha’ Sean Paul Left Side 14. Life We Livin – Sean Paul ft. newcomers such as Govana, featured on the album on the has partnered with 7. Crazy – Sean Paul ft. Buju Banton Squash Chi Ching Ching, Intence, “Guns of Navarone” remix. Dreamstage and is set to 8. Schedule – Sean Paul ft. Jr. Gong 15. I’m Sanctify – Sean Paul ft. Skillibeng and several other “Stonebwoy, very talented perform virtually for his fans and Chi Ching Ching Mavado & Agent Sasco (Remix) artistes that play a pivotal role artist from Ghana who always Live from Jamaica. Fans are in 9. Money Bags Sean Paul ft. Govana 16. Everest – Sean Paul ft. Masicka and whose sound remains a pay homage to the dancehall luck as they will get to teleport 10. Protect Me – Sean Paul ft. Serani and Skillibeng 22 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Yaphet Kotto: James Bond villain and Alien actor dies at 81 YAPHET Kotto, best 1977 movie Raid on father, a good husband interviews waiting and immigrant father and a known for playing a Entebbe. and a decent human you have movie offers like US Army nurse, and villain in 1973 James His TV career also being, very rare to find. G.I. Joe and the movie of studied acting from the Bond movie Live and Let included roles in the A- One of the best actors in Tom Cruise and others. age of 16. At 19, he made Die, has died at the age of Team and Law and Order, Hollywood, a Legend. Rest You still have plan to his professional theatre 81. and he played Lieutenant in Peace Honey, I’m gonna release your book and debut in Othello, and later The actor also played a Al Giardello in seven miss you everyday, my build a religious performed on Broadway crew member in 1979 sci- series of the gritty best friend, my rock.” organization. in The Great White Hope. fi movie Alien, and starred Homicide: Life on the I’m saddened and still Tributes came from His first few film in US TV police drama Street, for which he also in shocked of the passing Hollywood figures projects included Nothing Homicide: Life on the worked as a scriptwriter. of my husband Yaphet of including Ava DuVernay, But a Man in 1964 and Street. He died on Monday in 24 years. He died last who said he was “one of The Thomas Crown Affair Kotto’s other credits the Philippines, his wife night around 10:30pm those actors who deserved in 1968. included the 1980s action Sinahon Thessa said on Philippine time. more than the parts he Kotto drew plaudits for films The Running Man Facebook. “You played a This is a very painfall got”, and fellow director his role as the first black and Midnight Run. villain on some of your moment for me to inform Edgar Wright, who Bond villain Dr Kananga Kotto as Dr Kananga He also received an movies but for me you’re a you all fans, friends and described him as “a – an evil Caribbean giving Roger Moore’s Emmy nomination for real hero and to a lot of family of my husband. brilliant magnetic diplomat masquerading James Bond a grilling playing former Ugandan people also,” she wrote. We still have a lot of presence”. as a New York drug lord – in Live and Let Die. President Idi Amin in the “A good man, a good plans honey that we Kotto was born in New in Live and Let Die, discussed you have a lot of York to a Cameroonian starring Roger Moore.

Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter and seven others died when a helicop- ter crashed in California last year. Kobe Bryant widow sues LA police over ‘graphic images’ of helicopter crash he widow of Kobe the officers shared with a saying that the Bryant has bartender, photos of Kobe department would wait Tpublished the Bryant’s body and the for a court to decide the names of Los Angeles others distributed outcome of the case. County police officers who “gratuitous photos of the Bryant alleges that at she said shared graphic dead children, parents, least eight officers took photos of the scene of her and coaches”. pictures of the crash site husband’s death in a The Los Angeles Times for their personal use, and helicopter crash last year. newspaper reported in claims that one took Vanessa Bryant is suing February last year that an between 25 and 100 the Los Angeles County internal police photos. Sheriff’s Department for investigation found In February safety negligence and invasion of officers shared photos of investigators said the privacy. victims’ remains. helicopter pilot, Ara Basketball star Bryant She claims the pictures, Zobayan, may have died with his daughter including those of her 13- become disoriented in fog and seven others in the year-old daughter before the aircraft crash. Gianna, were taken and smashed into a hillside. On Wednesday Vanessa shared “for no reason The US National Bryant, 38, posted on other than morbid Transportation Safety Instagram the names of gossip”. Board said the main four sheriff’s deputies. Last week a judge cause of the crash was She says they took rejected an attempt to most likely the pilot’s graphic pictures of the stop publication of the decision to keep flying in nine people who died in officer’s names, allowing inclement conditions the crash close to Bryant to disclose them. “which resulted in the Calabasas, California, in LA County Sheriff Alex pilot’s spatial January last year. Villanueva responded on disorientation and loss of She alleges that one of Twitter to Bryant’s post, control.” The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 23

Marvel’s ‘Falcon’ promises action, explores race, patriotism hen Steve Rogers chase scenes. The series journey of whether it’s Unlike the mostly in 2011’s “Captain they can get.” handed Sam launches today. even appropriate to deal insular “WandaVision,” America: The First Spellman, who was a WWilson his While “Endgame” with the symbol, the Stars the first Marvel series Avenger.” In comics, producer and writer on Captain America shield at appeared to promise a and Stripes, to me, felt launched after Barnes has also taken up the hit series “Empire,” the end of Marvel’s quick transition for super, super relevant and “Endgame,” “Falcon” Cap’s shield, lending an says he’s looking to deal massive 2019 event Anthony Mackie’s Falcon timely.” promises a larger scope of inherent tension to the with potentially hot- “Avengers: Endgame,” to take up the Captain So will there be a Black globe-trotting adventure series titular pairing. button subjects honestly Wilson tried it on for a America mantle, as he has Captain America by the with implications for Stan says “Falcon” without alienating the beat. “How does it feel?” in the comics, the creator time the final credits roll multiple characters in allowed the two actors to audience. The story, the wrinkled Rogers of “Falcon” promises only in April? Mackie, steeped upcoming series and find new shadings to their featuring the return of asked. “Like it’s someone complications. Malcolm in Marvel’s renowned films. roles, even after so many Daniel Brühl as Zemo and else’s,” Wilson responded. Spellman said the series secret-keeping after Spellman drew film appearances, by Emily VanCamp as That reluctance and will explore “the conflict playing Falcon since inspiration from race- “honoring the things that Sharon Carter, also skepticism is front-and- for a Black man 2014’s “Captain America: conscious “buddy two- we have understood about introduces a character center as Wilson’s story confronting those stars The Winter Soldier,” will handers” like “Lethal them so far in the movies named John Walker, continues in “The Falcon and stripes.” only say this: “I’m very Weapon,” “48 Hours” and and then also staying played by Wyatt Russell. and the Winter Solder,” a He said the happy with the end of “The Defiant Ones,” open to taking them down In the comics, Walker new six-episode Disney+ Wilson/Falcon character is ‘Falcon,’ and I feel like I highlighting the warm a new path and finding becomes U.S. Agent, a series that promises an set to “emerge from this have one of the most chemistry between the middle ground sometime antagonist to exploration of patriotism story as a hero of the unique, coolest characters Mackie and Sebastian between those things.Of Captain America who and race alongside its times and a hero of the in all of comic book Stan, who joined Marvel course, the more time you twists American shootouts and soaring people today.And that movies.” movies as Bucky Barnes have, the more interesting patriotism to darker ends. Fueled by fans, ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ hits HBO Max ZACK Snyder never #ReleasetheSnyderCut really believed that his banners were flown over cut of “Justice League” the Warner Bros. lot in would see the light of day. Burbank and during the It has technically existed 2019 San Diego Comic- since January 2017, but it Con. They even leased a wasn’t in any shape to be billboard in Time’s released. It was four Square. Over the years, hours, in black and white, the hashtag became so had storyboards where ubiquitous, it even turned visual effects were into a bit of a joke. Why supposed to go and an on earth would a studio unfinished score. pay for a redo of an epic “When I finished it, I disaster? said, oh well, no one will Well, a few things ever see this movie,” he happened: There was a said. change of leadership at Although he’s officially the studio and suddenly credited as the director of everyone was in search of the DC superhero content for their new mashup with Gal Gadot’s streaming service HBO Wonder Woman, Ben Max. Warner Bros. Affleck’s Batman and Pictures Group chair Jason Momoa’s Aquaman Toby Emmerich that hit theaters in the asked the Snyders if they This image released by HBO Max shows, from left, Ben Affleck as Batman, Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman summer of 2017, he and could release what they and director Zack Snyder on the set of “Zack Snyder’s Justice League.” Deborah Snyder – his had. wife and producing “We were like, it’s really wasn’t the same thing.” improvement over the were some of the main A lot of times with mental partner – had stepped rough,” Deborah Snyder The fans were a crucial original’s 40%. architects of the modern health, there’s such a away from the film said. But they saw an component. For HBO “It’s the journey of the DC universe going back stigma and people are months earlier. Relations opportunity to finish Max, it meant possible team coming together. To to 2013’s “Man of Steel” afraid to talk about it or had strained with the what they started, and subscriptions. And the be able to explore each and behind the casting of embarrassed,” she said. studio, and the pressure she got to work putting Snyders got the go-ahead member of that team and people like Gadot and “Through that journey was getting to be too together a pitch. It was to finish the score, add who they are and what Momoa, they are moving with Autumn, we very much, especially after the somewhat familiar some 2,650 visual effects their struggles are in this on to different things, like many times felt the same suicide of their 20-year- territory for the former and film an additional format? We wouldn’t have Netflix’s “Army of the way.” old daughter Autumn. So advertising executive but scene with Jared Leto’s been able to do that (for Dead,” which comes out in What they didn’t ever the Snyders walked away, also in many ways Joker. It even proved theaters),” Deborah May. And the DC world is expect was that the fans and Joss Whedon was entirely unprecedented. beneficial that everything Snyder said. “Now we going on without them. would also jump on that hired to revamp and “I think the biggest shut down because of really get this really The Snyders remain cause. In the end, fans finish “Justice League.” challenge was to convince COVID: It freed up the immersive journey that immensely grateful for contributed some The result was both a HBO Max that it was visual effects houses that we get to go on with the the fans, but not just US$500,000 to the ASFP. critical and financial worth the money to do are usually booked up characters. And I think at because of their passion “That I think touched letdown, and, according to it...at the end of the day, years in advance. the end it’s more for getting the Snyder us more than anything cast members like Ray for them, it’s a business The result, “Zack fulfilling. We care about Cut released. After their else,” she said. “At the end Fisher, who plays Cyborg, deal. And they if they’re Snyder’s Justice League,” them more because you daughter’s death, they of the day, you know, a toxic environment too. going to spend X, they debut on HBO Max see where they’ve come decided to be public about ‘Justice League’ is a The Snyders had want to make sure they’re yesterday. It’s not just a from.” the fact that it was movie. It means a lot. And mostly disconnected from getting a return on that director’s cut. It’s a whole Deborah Snyder said suicide and to support the the characters mean a lot the whole ordeal, but fans business,” she said. “And new movie. And, it seems, that it “still doesn’t feel American Foundation for to a lot of people. But wouldn’t stop asking for with a movie that had even critics have gotten super real.” It’s mere Suicide Prevention actually helping The Snyder Cut. And already come out we on board. As of weeks since they’ve (ASFP). people...especially people their gestures kept needed to also show Wednesday, it was sitting finished it. And it’s also “We felt like we were that are struggling? To getting more and more everyone that this was a at 78% on Rotten the closing of a chapter. public enough that we me, that means so much elaborate: Planes with different animal. This Tomatoes – a vast Although the Snyders could make a statement. more.” 24 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Lawyers for Johnny Depp seek to appeal ‘wife beater’ ruling ONDON – Lawyers for Lawyer Andrew Caldecott said in Johnny Depp told Britain’s written submissions that Heard’s LCourt of Appeal yesterday claims she donated the entire that the actor’s ex-wife, Amber amount of her US$7-million divorce Heard, did not donate all of her settlement to two charities were a US$7 million divorce settlement to “calculated and manipulative lie.” charity as she claimed, part of The claims gave Heard a arguments seeking to overturn a “considerable boost to her ruling that the actor assaulted credibility as a person,” and had Heard during the couple’s “tipped the scales against Mr. Depp marriage. from the very beginning,” Caldecott The Hollywood star is seeking argued. Johnny Depp permission to appeal a High Court The couple divorced in 2016. ruling in November, when he lost Caldecott alleged that the one of rejected the arguments, saying his libel lawsuit against The Sun Heard’s supposed charitable Heard did not lie about the newspaper for labeling him a “wife beneficiaries, Children’s Hospital donations because she was beater” in an article. Depp lost the Los Angeles, wrote to Depp’s pledging to pay the sums over time. case – thought to be one of the business adviser in 2019 to say She had made “a number of biggest English libel trials in recent Heard had not made any payments already in pursuance of history – following a three-week payments. these pledges,” said Adam trial in July. “It’s a false plus to her and a false Wolanski, representing News High Court Justice Andrew Nicol minus to him,” he said yesterday. Group Newspapers. ruled that lawyers for Sun Caldecott also argued that Nicol, Wolanski added that “even if the publisher News Group Newspapers the High Court judge, unfairly judge had had the fresh evidence proved during the trial that the rejected evidence unfavorable to and decided it did demonstrate that allegations against Depp, made in a Heard during last year’s trial. He Ms. Heard was a gold-digger,” that April 2018 article, were said the judge should have placed did not mean she had not been “substantially true.” more importance on recordings in assaulted. The judge ruled that Depp, 57, which Heard appeared to admit to Two judges at the Court of assaulted Heard, 34, on a dozen assaulting Depp when she was Appeal said they would not make a occasions and put her in fear for heard saying “I can’t promise I decision about the appeal her life three times. won’t get physical again.” yesterday, but would issue a ruling Yesterday, Depp’s lawyers argued Her “promise about future soon. During last year’s trial, the for an appeal, saying Depp did not conduct suggests that this is not judge – and the public – heard lurid receive a fair trial. Neither Depp necessarily a one-off,” the lawyer accounts from Depp and Heard in nor Heard were present for the said. which each accused the other of hearing. Lawyers for The Sun’s publisher abuse. Bridge The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 25 SPORTSSPORTS Hope smashes another half century as warm-up match ends in draw THE in-form Shai squad leading the way for The West Indies ended ready to step up should Hope continued to pile the home side. This time the first day on 103/1 someone not make the on the runs as he top- it was Roston Chase with with Hope and Bravo un- mark. scored for the West the ball as he not only defeated and 69 runs be- Mayers, who was the Indies President’s XI captained the President’s hind Sri Lanka’s first third player to score a when the two-day XI, but picked up four Innings total. half century for the match against Sri wickets in just seven On the second day President’s XI, is already Lanka ended in a overs with his offspin Bravo was dismissed for included in the squad draw yesterday bowling. 30 runs, while Hope went and has put his hand up at Coolidge Cricket Getting back into the soon afterwards without for a place in the starting Ground in Antigua. swing of the action was adding to the score. eleven. Hope, who was the Kemar Roach with two This time Shamarh For Sri Lanka, the leading run scorer in he wickets; while Anderson Brooks and Kyle Mayers bowling was led One-Day International Phillips who came into developed a partnership by Dananjaya De Silva matches with 258 runs – the ODI team for the last which amassed 76 runs with 3/26 and he was well which included two half match picked up three for the fourth wicket. supported by Lasith centuries and one cen- wickets. Brooks scored 19 while Embuldeniya with 3/69. tury – struck 68 runs off Leading with the bat Mayers scored 57 runs. The match ended in a 89 balls in the two-day for Sri Lanka was Along with Hope, draw just before 5 p.m. match. Oshada Fernando with Chase also made a strong with Lahiru Thirimanna He continues to make 47 runs, while Dinesh case for an inclusion in and Dimuth Karuna- a strong case for his in- Chandimal scored 40 as the Test squad as he rathne unbeaten on 23 clusion in the Test team, these two shared in the returned with the bat and 27 respectively, and since his return to the highest partnership for to score 52 runs and no wickets falling in their side this year after opt- their side of 53 runs. help his team to post second innings. ing out of the Bangladesh For the President’s XI, a total of 294 runs all The first Test match is tour. Hope and Darren Bravo out. slated for March 21 to 25 Sri Lanka batted first shared in a 102-run sec- This makes the first and the second one is and were bowled out for ond wicket partnership Test critical if players scheduled for March 29 172 runs, with another after Shayne Moseley wish to be selected for the to April 2, each beginning Shai Hopes continued his rich form, top scoring with player who had been left was dismissed with the second Test, as players at 10 a.m. 68 runs in the warm-up match against Sri Lanka. out of the first Test match score on nine. have shown they are (CG) India win fourth T20 vs England to set up series decider INDIA set up a series de- batting reserves proved cider with an eight-run vital as Suryakumar, who win over England in made his India debut an absorbing fourth in the second T20, shone Twenty20 in Ahmedabad. in place of that game’s Suryakumar Yadav hit star, the injured Ishan a sparkling 57 off 31 balls Kishan. in his first international Suryakumar hit his first innings as the hosts delivery for six – an outra- posted a challenging 185- geous pull off Archer – 8 on the best batting setting the tone for an en- surface of the series. thralling knock in which England struggled to he reached 50 off 28 balls. get going but were still After sumptuously firmly in contention at sweeping Sam Curran for 140-3 off 16 overs, only to six, he was dismissed in lose Ben Stokes for 46 and controversial fashion play- Eoin Morgan in consecu- ing the same shot next up. tive balls. Malan took a low catch Needing 33 to win from that was given a soft sig- the last two overs, Archer nal of out by the on-field hit two fours and a six to umpires – a decision the set up a thrilling finale, third umpire had to stick but Shardul Thakur held by after multiple replays his nerve as England proved inconclusive as to finished on 177-8. Dawid Malan has not passed 24 in his four innings in the series. whether Malan’s fingers The first victory by the were under the ball. side batting first in this statement win spect starts while their ing Hardik Pandya to order with too much to do Rishabh Pant, who series means it is tied at Had England managed to Indian counterparts at- deep mid-wicket to leave as India’s fine bowling per- made 30 off 23 balls, and 2-2 going into the final chase their target down, it tacked from the off. England 66-3 in the ninth formance showed winning Shreyas Iyer, with 37 off game at the same venue would have ranked as one Dawid Malan is the over. the toss is not always a 18, continued the momen- on Saturday. of their most impressive world’s number one T20 Jonny Bairstow and guarantee of victory. tum. India captain Virat wins under Morgan, espe- batsman for good reason, Stokes also started watch- Although England spent the last few overs of cially given the T20 World but his tendency to play fully before starting to find Suryakumar shines checked it slightly late on the game off the field be- Cup will be held in India himself in proved costly the fence, with all-rounder With both openers falling – Stokes took a stunning cause of an “upper core” in October. here as he made 14 off 17 Stokes hitting three cheaply and Adil Rashid one-handed catch to dis- injury suffered in the field, While Archer’s late on- balls before being bowled mighty sixes before he having Kohli stumped off miss Pandya, and Archer but he said it was “nothing slaught made it close, round his legs by leg-spin- picked out long-off. a googly for only one, it struck twice in a superb serious” and expects to be England’s performance ner Rahul Chahar. The canny Thakur then seemed India might again last over to finish with 4- fit for the series finale. shows they have some is- Jason Roy found some removed Morgan, who put fail to set an imposing 33, his best T20 figures for sues to address, with most fluency after a scratchy himself down the order to total. England – India had England fall short of batsmen making circum- start but fell for 40, hook- six, leaving the lower But the depths of their enough. 26 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Arsenal lose but progress to Europa League quarter-finals

ARSENAL were given a scare by Youssef El-Arabi’s shot found the net via managed the remainder of the tie with a profligacy in attack. Olympiakos but had enough from a deflection off Gabriel to give the visitors adequately to progress, helped by a red Pepe could have settled the tie for good the first leg to beat the Greek side on hope of repeating last season’s shock – card shown to Ousseynou Ba for dissent after beating the onrushing keeper but aggregate and reach the Europa when they knocked the Gunners out of late on. saw his subsequent finish from an angle League last eight. the Europa League in the last 32 by They will discover their quarter-final deflected just wide by a covering Leading 3-1 from the game in Greece, scoring in the final minute of extra time opponents when the draw is made in defender. the Gunners were comfortable at Emirates Stadium. Switzerland at 12:00 GMT on Friday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, recalled throughout the first half in London. However, Olympiakos were unable to Arsenal have developed a habit of after being left out of Sunday’s north Some nerves began to show after build on El-Arabi’s goal as Arsenal making life hard for themselves under London derby win over Tottenham for Mikel Arteta. breach of “pre-match protocol", could Once again, they were their own worst have had a hat-trick and certainly should enemies at Emirates Stadium with a have taken at least one of the numerous tame and occasionally sloppy second-leg good chances that came his way. display that offered the incentive to their Arteta has called for his side to opponents. demonstrate better game management – Thankfully for the Gunners, most of and while the Spaniard was visibly the heavy lifting for this win had been angered by some of the choices his side done in the first leg in Pireas, where late made after the deadlock had been goals from Gabriel and Mohammed broken, he can take some satisfaction Elneny made amends for some poor from the fact they were able to draw the defending which allowed the Greek side sting out of the Greek champions after to briefly regain parity in the tie. El-Arabi scored. That frailty at the back resurfaced The fight had already drained again in London, though, with Dani somewhat from Olympiakos, but Ba’s Ceballos’ loose pass allowing the Greek dismissal – courtesy of a second yellow side to set up El-Arabi for his goal. for throwing the ball down in disgust The Morocco striker could also have following a foul – eradicated it. scored before then to offer an earlier It was a far from perfect display but incentive to the visitors, but Bernd Leno’s more than enough to ensure that the save made amends for the lax defending Gunners remain in the hunt for a that allowed him to get within sight of European trophy and the sought-after the target from a long ball. prize of a Champions League place that The poor Gunners defending was allied comes with it.

Youssef El-Arabi’s 20th goal of the season briefly gave Olympiakos hope of a shock at the Emirates. Tennis-Sinner confident Italian tennis is on the up JANNIK SINNER said Italian tennis is in completed his first top-ten career win great shape and has predicted a bright against Argentine Diego Schwartzman in future for fellow 19-year-old Lorenzo Acapulco, Mexico, before defeating Musetti after the pair notched up wins at American Frances Tiafoe to reach the last ATP 500 events this week. eight. While Matteo Berrettini and Fabio “Everyone is different, has different Fognini led Italy to the final of the team- styles, so I think that’s very exciting,” based ATP Cup last month in Melbourne, Sinner told reporters in Dubai. 2019 Next Gen ATP Finals winner Sinner “Musetti is a big, big talent. He can do has also made a name for himself as one everything with the ball already, so he’s of the brightest prospects on the circuit. already physically strong. I think he’s a Sinner last month became the youngest great player ... He’s serving big and going player to win two ATP titles since Novak for shots. Djokovic in 2006 by claiming the Great “I’m excited for Italian tennis and I Ocean Road Open after his win at the think everyone can do well in every Sofia Open at the end of 2020. tournament.” Sinner reached his maiden On Wednesday, he took down Spain’s Grand Slam quarter-final at last year’s former number nine Roberto Bautista French Open and spent his 14-day Agut 6-4 3-6 7-5 to reach the quarter- isolation in Adelaide ahead of the finals in Dubai. Australian Open in Melbourne as Rafa A day earlier, qualifier Musetti Nadal’s hitting partner. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 27

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Mercedes expect to FOR A DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST start new Formula Institution: Inter-American Development Bank Country: BARBADOS

1 season slower Project: National Tourism Program than Red Bull Sector: Tourism

MERCEDES say they “The result of that is Abstract: To engage the services of a Digital Marketing Specialist to co-ordinate, supervise and manage expect to start the new across the season and the execution of activities under Component 2 – Strengthening Digital Marketing. These Formula 1 season next across different types of activities will pertain to outputs such as: Tourism Digital Information Ecosystem/Data weekend with a slower track layouts, I am sure Management Platform; Digital Marketing Platform Design, Evaluation and Quality Review; car than Red Bull. you will see us move In pre-season testing forwards and backwards Training Programmes in Data Analytics and Programmatic Advertising; Commercial Advertising last weekend, Mercedes relative to them, but I to the Private Sector with Search Engine Marketing and the development and deployment of a struggled, with their new don’t believe we are going Mobile App. The Specialist shall ensure that these activities are executed in accordance with car apparently lacking into this particularly the provisions of the Loan Contract for the National Tourism Program and other pertinent pace and stability. finding all the documentation. “There are a lot of performance that is unknowns,” Mercedes missing or being ahead of strategy director James them.” Loan No. 4342/OC-BA Vowles said. “No-one up Vowles said the team and down the paddock can “don’t have the answers” Contract/Bid No.: NTP – 3.1.1.11 pinpoint exactly where as to why the car was not they are. behaving the way “But there are a few Mercedes would have Deadline: March 26, 2021 trends that have come out. liked. I’d say Red Bull are ahead “The car was handling The Government of Barbados has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), towards the cost on performance. They are poorly,” Vowles said, “and of the National Tourism Program (NTP), and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services. the class act.” conversely the Red Bull in Mercedes have won the fact looked what we would past seven consecutive call planted, but it was a The services include, but are not limited to: evaluating system designs; assisting to ensure that all procurement activities world championship very stable car especially are conducted in strict accordance with the procurement guidelines of the Inter-American Development Bank and the doubles and this year through the last sector of Government of Barbados; supervising, monitoring and controlling all activities to ensure that all works are carried out in Lewis Hamilton is bidding the lap. strict conformity with the pre-approved designs and specifications; having responsibility for all closeout, handover, for a record eighth drivers’ “It was visible to the title. outside and I would say testing and commissioning activities upon completion of the works to the full satisfaction of the terms of the Contract(s); However, Hamilton the lap times mirrored managing, supervising and co-ordinating all required tasks to ensure that all project stages are completed in accordance admitted after the test that as well.” with the terms and conditions of the Contract(s); conducting and leading regular meetings including kick off meetings, that the car was “just not Trackside engineering progress meetings, trouble shooting, completion and hand over, and final sign off meetings and reviewing and reporting on quick enough”, adding director Andrew Shovlin the progress of work. that the team had “lots of added: “The wind made it work to do – it’s going to be tricky. When the wind is The implementation period is from May 2021 until April 2022, with the possibility for an extension of the contract. tough”. behind the car, you lose a Vowles, speaking in a lot of downforce because The Ministry of Tourism and International Transport now invites eligible individuals to indicate their interest in providing video released by effectively the air speed is the Services. Interested individuals should submit their Curriculum Vitae demonstrating that they have the required Mercedesexternal-link reduced. qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services. analysing their “So, some corners where performance in pre- the wind was behind, it season testing, said: “Are was prone to doing that, The Digital Marketing Specialist will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American we going to have a close and then also the tyres are Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development season? I would say so. quite easy to overheat on Bank GN-2350-15, Section V. This Request for Expressions of Interest is open to all eligible bidders as defined in the “Red Bull are a fierce that circuit and if you Policies. Only individuals who are citizens of one of the IDB’s 48 member countries are eligible to participate. adversary, they’ve got a start sliding, you tend to strong package and lose grip and it gets worse. clearly came out of the box So, there are a few A Specialist will be selected on the basis of their qualifications for the assignment as set out in the Bank’s Policies. very, very quick. problems. A copy of the Terms of Reference for the Digital Marketing Specialist and any related information, can be obtained by submitting an e-mail to [email protected].

Curriculum Vitae must be submitted by e-mail no later than March 26, 2021 to:

Ministry of Tourism and International Transport Attn: Mrs. Nicole Alleyne, Project Co-ordinator, NTP 4th & 5th Floors One Barbados Place Warrens St. Michael BB12001 BARBADOS, W.I. Telephone: (246) 535-7500 Email: [email protected]

Applications that do not comply with the conditions set out in this Notice will not be considered. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Applicants will be advised of the results of their applications in due course. Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, pictured in the gravel, said Mercedes were ‘just not The Government of Barbados reserves the right to accept or reject any applications received. quick enough’ during recent testing in Bahrain. 28 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

REAL ESTATE Tokyo Games creative head quits over ‘Olympig’ insult TOKYO Olympics’ discomfort with such His resignation came creative chief has content.” shortly after weekly resigned after Naomi Watanabe is one magazine Shukan suggesting that a of Japan’s most well- Bunshun reported his TEL: 247-4469 female comedian known comedians remarks on Wednesday. Cel: 253-6319 could appear as an Ms Watanabe, 33, is one Organisers have said 828-4800 “Olympig", in the latest of Japan’s most famous that current Games Email: setback for the Games. comedians, and is known president Seiko caribbeanpropertiesltd @gmail.com Hiroshi Sasaki said for her celebrity Hashimoto plans to plus-size entertainer impersonations and body address the matter at a PROPERTIES Naomi Watanabe could positivity advocacy work. news conference wear pig ears at the In recent years she has yesterday. Kirtons, St Philip opening ceremony. spearheaded a body Former Olympian and 3 bedroom plus He later apologised and positive movement called Japan’s ex-Olympics 2 bedroom apt 4,790 sq ft admitted his remarks “pochakawaii", which minister Ms Hashimoto $685,000 were “a huge insult” to translates to “chubby and was appointed Games her. Ms Watanabe has yet cute", and in 2014 she president last month Amity Lodge, Ch Ch to respond. started one of Japan’s after Mr Mori sparked 3 bedroom plus REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE The incident comes first brands to offer plus- backlash when he said 1 bedroom apt Bushy Park, St. Philip after ex-Games president size clothing. that women talk too 6,646 sq ft $650,000 17,000 sq ft $170,000 Bagatelle, St. Thomas Yoshiro Mori was forced Mr Sasaki, 66, who is in much. He also said that 62000 sq ft into 2 lots to quit for making sexist charge of the Olympic meetings with many Gibbons, Ch Ch Inchcape, St. Philip $520,000 each, or remarks. opening and closing female board directors 3 bedroom plus 4355 sq ft $ 96,000 $1M for both “There was a very ceremonies, had made the would “take a lot of time". 2 bedroom apt inappropriate expression suggestions involving Since taking on the 9,835 sq ft Belle, St. George Marley Vale, St Philip in my ideas and Watanabe last year via a role, Ms Hashimoto has $675,000 (reduced) 4 acres $400,000 21,780 sq ft $275,000 remarks,” Mr Sasaki said group chat on messaging pledged to make gender in a statement released app Line. The proposal equality a top priority at Breezy Hill, St Philip Haggatt Hall, St. Michael Sandford, St Philip through the Games was immediately rejected the Games, adding 12 3 bedroom, 2 bath 6336 sq ft $126,000 16,356 sq ft $300,000 reduced to $298,000 organising committee. “I by his colleagues, who female directors to the Under Offer sincerely apologise to her told him it was organising committee’s Black Rock, St Michael and people who have felt inappropriate. executive board. Cane Garden, St. Thomas COMMERCIAL 3 bedroom, 1 bath 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft 6732 sq ft $360,000 Private entrance. Mount Standfast, St James From $187,681 Two properties on Enterprise, Christ Church 22,714 sq ft. Up to ten Russians can 3 bedroom, 2 bath Ragged Point, St. Philip Asking $1,200,000 5062 sq ft 8,267 sq ft $166,000 $390,000 (reduced) Black Rock, St. Michael Rolling Hills, St. George Warehouse/Storage compete in track and The Belle, St George 12,000 sq ft 4000 sf space 23,861 sq ft Plantation style House $310,000 (negotiable) $900,000 (reduced) Standing on 4 acres $1.1M Ocean City, St. Philip Foul Bay, St. Philip field events as neutrals 6150 sq ft $123,000 Approved for condos, Frere Pilgrim, 39,242 sq ft $1,600,000. UP to ten Russian track suspended over further The Authorised Neutral Christ Church Fortesque, St Philip and field athletes will be violations. Athlete scheme, which 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Agricultural Land Dover, Christ Church able to compete as Russia has been banned covers further two bedroom apartment. 494,500 sq ft $1,100,000 Hotel 18 rooms fully neutrals at the Tokyo from competing as a international athletics 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 operational $2,950,000 neg Olympics this summer, nation in athletics since events as well as the Silver Sands, under offer Hanson Heights, St George World Athletics has 2015. Olympics, depends on Christ Church 8321 sq ft $595,000 confirmed. In 2019, the World Anti- Russia meeting deadlines 7,129 sq ft $160,000 Dalkeith, Christ Church Athletics’ world Doping Agency (Wada) and targets set out in the 17,371 sq ft approved for Ealing Grove, governing body has banned the nation from all plan. Bushy Park, St. Philip shops and offices Christ Church reinstated a scheme major sporting events for Twenty-nine 24,000 sq ft $190,000 $495,000 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths allowing Russian athletes four years but that Authorised Neutral who meet anti-doping sanction was reduced to Athletes from Russia 9320 sq ft $565,000 Roebuck Street, Apes Hill, St. James criteria to compete under two years in December competed at the 2019 31,000 sq ft upward Bridgetown LOTS FOR SALE a neutral flag. 2020. World Athletics Large lots at $15 per sq ft Shopping Mall/Office space $8,100,000 negotiable The Authorised Neutral Earlier this month, Championships in Doha. Boarded Hall, Mount Wilton, St. Thomas Athlete scheme was World Athletics approved They won two gold Christ Church 15,500 sq ft and 22,066 sq ft Batts Rock, St Michael announced in March Russia’s 31-page plan for medals, three silvers and 10,429 sq ft $157,000 $300,000 and $220,000 Guest House, 12,078 sq ft 2020, but was then reform. one bronze medal. $2,850,000 negotiable Westbury Road, St Michael Union, St. Philip 2,520 sq ft $45,360 7560 sq ft Cane Garden, St Thomas $150,000 3.6 acres approved Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Goodland Gardens, Roadfront Christ Church Thorpes, St. James $1,650,000 negotiable 9,605 sq ft $145,000 11,376 sq ft with structure Prix to be fastest street track $235,000 Fitts Village, St James THE inaugural Saudi average lap speed will be free-flowing areas that Nursery Road, St Philip Guest House, 4 Suites 9,266 sq ft $139,000 Arabian Grand Prix will 155 mph, among the will create fast speeds and Cottage, St George 6,135 sq ft take place on the sport’s highest on any F1 track. overtaking opportunities. 5000 sq ft $750,000 negotiable Lashley Road, St Philip fastest street circuit, F1 managing director The setting is incredible, $110,000 (negotiable) 5,839 sq ft, $150,000 claims Formula 1. Ross Brawn said the track on the Red Sea.” Mason Hill Street The City The track will be on the should “provide exciting The race weekend is Morningside, St Philip 26,500 sq ft with buildings Salters, St George coast about seven miles wheel-to-wheel racing for scheduled for 3-5 4567 sq ft $133,000 $4,000,000 negotiable 2 lots 32,760 sq ft, $230,000 north of Jeddah and will our fans". December.The circuit will be the second longest on Brawn added: “The have 27 corners and Jupiter Gardens, St Peter All enquiries to Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy the F1 calendar, at 6.175 design brings out the best has a combination of 7312 sq ft (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 14,876 sq ft. $110,000 $133,000 (negotiable) or (246) 247 4469 km (3.84 miles). of a modern street circuit high-speed S-bends and Simulations suggest the but also has fast-paced chicanes. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 29

Sorry Tottenham stunned by Dinamo Zagreb in Europe League exit TOTTENHAM were knocked out of the Europa League as a sublime hat- trick from Mislav Orsic completed a remarkable second-leg turnaround for Dinamo Zagreb. Leading 2-0 after a one-sided first encounter in London seven days earlier, Spurs – who made seven changes – paid the price for a desperately poor performance against the Croatian champions. Orsic deservedly curled the hosts ahead on the night with a wonderful strike from the edge of the box and swept home Iyayi Atiemwen’s cross to bring the tie level in Zagreb. He added a superb third at the start of the second period of extra time, driving at a terrified Tottenham defence before firing another fine finish into Hugo Lloris’ bottom corner. Tottenham twice almost snatched salvation and progress at the end of both normal and extra time but Harry Kane was thwarted on each occasion by superb saves from Dinamo keeper Dominik Livakovic. Spurs piled on the pressure in the Spurs have conceded in 13 of their past 14 away games in the Europa League. closing stages but Dinamo held out to earn a fully merited place in Friday’s accused of relying too much on Kane in damage was already done. It would have made by manager Jose Mourinho, five quarter-final and semi-final draws. recent years, particularly when they have been harsh on dynamic Dinamo had the were substituted. Their emotional celebrations at the struggled during his spells out injured. visitors’ late flurry denied them an "If I forget the last minutes of extra final whistle, as players raced around They now have to deal with the absence historic triumph. time, where we did something to get a wildly and were embraced by scarcely of the equally influential Son Heung- Had they produced the type of different result and go through, in the 90 believing coaching staff, were a stark min, who has a hamstring injury. creativity that was seen in the closing minutes and first half of extra time there contrast to the Spurs stars sat on the Their collapse in Croatia mirrored stages in normal time, this was one team that decided to leave pitch in despair. Sunday’s derby defeat by Arsenal when embarrassment could have been avoided. everything on the pitch,” Mourinho told Tottenham have frequently been Spurs only really got going after the It was telling that of the seven changes BT Sport. 30 • Friday March 19, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Soccer outpost transformed into powerhouse TUCKED in a narrow valley That’s the correct way to develop the between mountains, the remote sport.’” county of Zhidan was one of the Ding took his friend’s advice and poorest parts of China when United waited at the gate of the county education States journalist Edgar Snow department for two weeks before he ventured across the Loess Plateau in finally met its head, who approved his the country’s northwest in 1936. school soccer programme. Today, although still less developed Under Ding’s programme, soccer was than coastal regions, Zhidan in Shaanxi included in compulsory education in province is well-known nation-wide for Zhidan. Professional coaches were hired its success in grassroots soccer to teach in primary and high schools, and development. gifted players were made available to When China qualified for the FIFA professional teams. World Cup for the first and only time 20 In 2010, Zhidan was included as one of years ago, just 60 people played soccer on the pilot counties in a national the dusty grounds of Zhidan. Today,that programme to promote soccer among number has risen to 6 000, and 32 students. The next year, the county artificial turf pitches have been built in government allocated an annual budget the county, which is home to 160 000 of 100 000 yuan ($15 400) to the Zhidan people. Football Association, with that grant All these achievements could not have increased to three million yuan in 2014. been made without Ding Changbao, The abundant financial support means president of the Zhidan Football all Zhidan students can receive free Association. With his help, 246 students Students participate in a soccer training camp during their summer vacation in soccer training. from rural Zhidan have signed with Liuba county, Shaanxi province, in August. [PHOTO/XINHUA] In 2015, the county’s soccer team won professional clubs or are playing for a provincial tournament. The success university teams, leading to some shock to me. I wanted to help China Ding realised the major hurdle to the boosted Ding’s confidence and he was so parents dubbing him “Ding the good become strong in the soccer world,” Ding development of the sport in China was a in demand that one day he received more man". said. lack of players. His friend Zhang Lu, a than 600 phone calls from parents and To achieve what he has today, Ding His dream was clouded early on. Ding well-known footballer and sports potential players. started with a much bigger dream to started his club in 2003 and it played commentator, told him the solution was The 41-year-old put his personal health establish a soccer club as great as the provincial competitions with scant to boost soccer’s popularity. to one side. He postponed surgery to Spanish giant Real Madrid on the Loess success on the field. “In 2007, I wrote a letter to Zhang. In remove a steel plate from his spine until Plateau. “Only around 60 people played soccer his reply, he suggested setting up a last year during the COVID-19 outbreak. "China’s embarrassing exit from the in the entire county, and half of them county soccer association,” Ding said.“He To date, about 20 000 students have 2002 FIFA World Cup after losing all were children,” said Ding, reasoning told me ‘Give up being so ambitious. Be received soccer coaching at 23 schools in three matches in the group stage was a that’s why their results were poor. practical. Make children love football. Zhidan. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 19, 2021 • 31

P R O HOROSCOPES S A ARIES (March 21-April 19). Conversations with N someone who was born in a foreign country will have D a big impact on you. Your opinions about an ethical dilemma will be very different. You understand and C respect there are different ways of looking at this O issue. At the same time you cannot be expected to do N anything that goes against your conscience. S TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Your stubbornness could be causing problems. You have a tendency to insist on doing everything in your own way. This could work against you in more ways than one. Someone else has an easier approach that will save you time and money. Take their advice. Apologise for rejecting their help when it turns out to be what you needed to move you forward. Z GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Small lifestyle changes I can make you feel better about yourself. Have you T fallen into the habit of neglecting your body? Forcing S yourself to be more active or making a small change to your diet will make you more aware of how you want to look and feel. Walk, dance, swim, laugh and be happy. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Keep conversations light to avoid misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Steer clear of controversial topics. Talking about re- ligion or politics will only lead to arguments and you will wish you had never joined the discussion. What R annoys you most is when someone persistently tries E to get you to change your mind. They won't succeed. X LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Outside commitments are starting to exhaust you. Protests are being planned in M your community. Although you support a good cause, O you have other things to think about. Start making R your personal life a priority. Participating in a com- G munity activity will only add to your responsibilities. A VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Your schedule is keep- N ing you so busy you hardly have a chance to draw breath. If you keep going at this demanding pace you will burn out. Is it time to start slowing down? Someone in the family is trying to get you interested in a hobby that looks deadly dull. It could turn out to be surprisingly entertaining. LIBRA(Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You have it within you to P help uncover other people's hidden potential. You've H been blessed with considerable talent. Don't be sur- A prised if you're asked to take a class or workshop on N your favourite subject. Your enthusiasm is contagious T and will attract a large audience. Focusing on what O you enjoy most makes you a popular figure. M SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You're driving your- self too hard. Now is a good time to remind yourself that you can't do everything and it isn't wise to jeop- ardise your health for the sake of your work. If a deadline looms closer, take a deep breath and contact people who might be affected to explain that you need more time to fulfil this obligation. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You want to M make a good impression on your boss and that's why A you're coming up with new ways to add value to your R company. Acquiring new skills and developing proj- Y ect ideas are among the possibilities. If you work for yourself, build up your business by offering good W customer service. O CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You feel guilty R about having loaned a friend some money when they T are now refusing to pay it back. Your partner is giv- H ing you a hard time because of this. They warned you against making this loan and now they keep rubbing it in. You might wish you hadn't mentioned it to them. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Getting involved in an emotionally fraught situation will only make you M more anxious and uncertain. Leave it to a practical O friend or colleague to take charge. A friend who is T struggling financially would be grateful for a loan but H can you really afford it? If you have to, don't be re- E luctant to say no. R PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You're looking for something new and different to get your teeth into. G Activities and projects relating to music, art and sports O are worth exploring. If you're interested in a neigh- O S bour's hobbies, ask lots of questions. This will be a E good way too to break down the barriers between you and to make new friends. Shai Hope smashes yet another half century as warm-up match ends in draw PAGE 25

Friday March 19, 2021 Opposition Leader questions allocation process for new NHC units WITH a backlog of thousands of appli- ing currently the allocations have been cations for housing, Opposition Leader going primarily to fire victims for obvi- Bishop Joseph Atherley wants to know ous reasons. how the National Housing Corporation In terms of the plans for new units, he (NHC) will be allocating new units to said the NHC would be building quads, tenants. the first of which would be done at During the Estimates debate, he Whitepark Road. questioned whether the mechanism for “We would have had towers built at allocating the NHC’s new homes will the Grotto and at Valerie – those tend take into account those who have been to take very long and when we worked waiting years for these homes. it out per square foot, it meant that the “There are people who have been on rental that is charged versus the square the NHC register for years, in fact foot was not an equitable situation, decades, and it is one of the most whereas the cost for quads by being heart-breaking stories that you can small and not having to have an eleva- hear told by constituents that they tor and recurring expenses…we decided have applied to NHC years ago – to have the design for quads, get in almost in another lifetime – and they and build them for people,” Duguid are not getting through. New projects stated. come on board, what does that do to Also responding to Atherley’s con- the register of applications? How cerns, Chairman of the NHC Morton are these new units going to be allo- Holder said, “We would have lost some cated?” the MP for St. Michael West of our units that were to be rented questioned. based on giving back or some of those In response, Minister of Housing, individuals who would have received Lands and Maintenance Dr. William their houses through various pro- Duguid admitted that the issue of allo- grammes, so at this time as we receive cation was difficult, especially due to requests, what would happen, we will heartbreaking stories of many of those look at it because there are some due to seeking accommodation. fires, to abuse happening within the “The government cannot do all. The current location, so we have to look at government cannot build a house for it very carefully as we determine where every single person,” he admitted, say- those homes would be allocated.” Opposition Leader, Bishop Joseph Atherley. MORE VACCINES COMING NEXT week, the Pan American UNICEF and vaccine manufacturers to millions of doses to dozens of countries South American countries, including Health Organisation (PAHO) ex- organise deliveries as quickly as possi- around the world. This is a bottleneck Uruguay, Ecuador, and Venezuela. pects that many countries in the ble. Last week, COVAX and the that still prevents us from getting vac- “In the last week, Paraguay’s health Caribbean will start to see the first Revolving Fund delivered nearly cines to every country at the same time. system issued an urgent warning as COVAX shipments arrive on their 400 000 doses to the region. Earlier this But shipments will become more regu- hospitals have filled with COVID pa- shores. week, the first shipment made its way lar as more doses are available to tients,” Dr. Etienne said. Director Dr. Carissa F. Etienne also to Jamaica. Over the next few days, the COVAX in the next few months.” “Major cities like Lima and Rio de revealed that PAHO’s goal is to ensure Revolving Fund will be delivering The PAHO Chief reiterated that coun- Janeiro have imposed curfews and lock- that every country in the region of the nearly 728 000 vaccines to five coun- tries must maintain public health downs to control recent spikes.” Americas that is participating in tries. measures – hand washing, social dis- In Brazil, several areas are experi- COVAX receives their first shipment “PAHO has placed orders for more tancing, and mask wearing. Even peo- encing record-high infections and hos- before World Health Day on April 7. than 3.4 million doses so far. For all ple who have been vaccinated should pital beds are nearing capacity in more This announcement came during these countries – even those who re- adhere to the measures. than half of the states. The country is PAHO’s weekly press briefing this ceived small donations earlier this “Stopping this pandemic will require reporting the second highest COVID week. month – these COVAX deliveries will both that we limit new infections and daily death toll in the world. “The good news is that vaccine deliv- enable the start of steady vaccination that we expand access to vaccines,” she New infections are declining in the eries are picking up throughout our efforts,” she indicated. stressed. United States and Mexico; while region. Every COVAX-participating “We are happy that vaccines through “So we must not let our guard down cases are increasing in Canada, partic- country in the Americas knows exactly COVAX are being delivered but we now. Let’s keep hope alive.” ularly among young adults. Moreover, how many doses they will be receiving recognise that the need for more vac- Even as vaccines arrive, Dr. Etienne in the Caribbean, new infections before the end of May.” cines and sooner is great in the reported that COVID-19 is accelerat- are declining but many islands are re- She also said that PAHO’s Revolving Americas. There is still much work to ing its spread in about half of the coun- porting a rise in COVID 19-related Fund is placing orders on behalf of the do. Right now,we have just two vaccine tries in the Americas. deaths. region and working together with manufacturers that are dispatching The number of cases is rising in many (TL)

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