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Monday March 22, 2021 $1 VAT Inclusive NUPW MAKING STRIDES DURING PANDEMIC PRESIDENT of the National McDowall told those in atten- The NUPW head also re- we continue to work on for our care that we will be able to push Union of Public Workers dance, “We vigorously negoti- vealed that there is now a pol- members. past this moment in our his- (NUPW), Akanni McDowall ated with government to ensure icy put forward by the union “We remain firm in our re- tory... I wish to reiterate that says the union has accom- that the BOSS program was that provides the framework for solve to fight injustices perpe- we remain focused as an objec- plished a lot, even more so voluntary and not forced as flexible working arrangements trated against our membership. tive of representing the inter- in the context of the pan- originally proposed. We have and working from at home. Because quality representation ests of our membership.” demic. been able to make some head- “High on the agenda moving for our workers is our goal, and He gave the assurance that He was delivering brief re- way in improving the lives of forward is a discussion about delivering equality for all is our as the NUPW enters its 76th marks at the St. George Parish public servants by ensuring our altering the senior public serv- defining purpose as a union.We year, it will continue to grow church yesterday as the NUPW public officers were appointed. ice posts and the implications must also continue to be each and adapt to meet the changing starts its week of activities to We are still in the process of ad- for public officers. These are a other's keepers. As we share expectations and demands of its mark the 76th anniversary of dressing who fell outside those snapshot of some of the achieve- what little resource we can. It is membership base. the organisation. specific set of criteria used.” ments and some of the matters only by this kind of collective NUPW on Page 5

Some of the individuals at the St. Philip Polyclinic on Sunday who were waiting for their number to be called to go inside to have their vaccination. Some BARVEN members step forward for vaccine SOME members of the bers of BARVEN had their first preneurs who operate from the probably be coming afterwards” they have also made the deci- Barbados Association of shot of the Oxford-AstraZeneca Fairchild Street Market and the on a different date to be vacci- sion to protect their fellow citi- Retailers, Vendors, and vaccine at the St. Philip BARVEN Outdoor Market. He nated. zens, especially the vulnerable, Entrepreneurs (BARVEN) are Polyclinic. also said outside of persons pres- “Those who have made the de- sick and elderly.” now among persons within soci- BARVEN President, Allister ent, there are other BARVEN cision to be immunized against He stated that within the or- ety who have received the Alexander told The Barbados members who have already this killer virus have made a de- ganisation, there remain some COVID-19 vaccine. Advocate that they comprised been immunised. He further cision not only to immunize members who are hesitant On Sunday, roughly 40 mem- the retailers, vendors and entre- stated “there are those who will themselves against this virus, VACCINE on Page 3 2 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 3

Private sector must lead Tougher WITH countries across the earn foreign exchange be- work to be done in that re- other partners to pay at- Caribbean ravaged by the fore COVID-19; it is the gard. The Caribbean tention to them, because COVID-19 pandemic, same now. We are ar- Export head said while it they are the ones you want anti-corruption Executive Director of the guably the most highly in- is now possible to pur- to make sure can have a Caribbean Export debted region on the chase more items online, seamless transition into Development Agency, planet; post COVID-19, many Caribbean business this new era and ease of Deodat Maharaj, says that we’re in the same situa- people still do have web- doing business,” he added. legislation going forward the private tion. Thirdly, and this is sites, which could be pro- Maharaj said that sector must play a greater vital, the State was the hibitive. Caribbean Export is doing role in regional economies. biggest employer pre- “What is going to hap- their part, where financ- In a recent interview COVID-19 and it remains pen I think, is that people ing for such businesses is needed with The Barbados the biggest employer in who are pushing the new concerned. He noted that Advocate, Maharaj said most countries in the re- frontiers of business, those just recently a direct as- SAYING that any at- sulate them, we need to COVID-19 has laid bare gion post COVID-19. But, who are going into renew- sistance grant programme tempt to modernise protect them. We need to our pre-existing vulnera- what is clear is that once ables, those who are em- funded by the European the Prevention of also let judges and others bilities as well as rein- you have one primary sec- bracing business outsourc- Union was approved, Corruption Act of 1929 integrate and understand forced the need to diver- tor that gives most jobs ing, health and wellness, where businesses, which is progressive, senior that if an attempt is sify into new sectors, new and provides most of the those new economies and apply, can receive up to lecturer in Political made, that the law in products and new mar- income, you will continue those businesses will flour- 15,000 euros on a non-re- Science at the UWI some way or the other will kets. As such, he said it is to be vulnerable, whether ish going forward and ex- imbursable basis to sup- Cave Hill Campus protect.” imperative that steps are it's a hurricane, or pan- isting businesses, if they port their business. Cynthia Barrow-Giles Barrow-Giles also ad- taken to change course, demic. I think that COVID don't embrace technology, “But I don't think that has expressed concern dressed the importance of sooner rather than later. has exacerbated pre-exist- and this new way of doing is sufficient, obviously,and that what is currently whistleblowing legisla- With that in mind, he ing vulnerabilities, but business, they will be in therefore what is really being contemplated is tion. “Now, one of the is- maintained that the pri- what it has also done is peril,” he stated. important is that across a “little timid”. sues, though, is when we vate sector has to play a sent a sharp message that Reflecting more on the the region in regional in- Her comments came think about whistleblow- central and leadership role business as usual cannot private sector, he said stitutions, such as the yesterday during radio ing, for instance, we need in the economy to generate continue,” the executive di- while the larger busi- Caribbean Development programme Brass Tacks to try to incentivise peo- jobs, and facilitate the rector stated. nesses in the Caribbean Bank, and others, they Sunday which focused on ple, because we already growth and prosperity of Additionally, Maharaj will be able to adjust and have an important role to corruption and integrity spoke about why it is Caribbean people. To that said that the pandemic adapt to the new normal, play in ensuring that pre- mechanisms in Barbados some people may not wish end, he contended that the has forced countries to em- the micro, small and cious finance for small and and the wider region. to probably get them- role of the State will be to brace technology and dig- medium sized businesses, micro businesses is really Barrow-Giles, while selves involved in, you create an enabling envi- italization, at a much which account for about 60 readily available. And of sharing a wealth of infor- know, disclosing certain ronment for business to faster rate than they percent of the employ- course, government has an mation on the topic, said: things they would have flourish and thrive. would have ordinarily had ment, will need help. important leadership role “It’s not as progressive as seen, because in the first “We were primary pro- to do, in order to compete “It is really important to play to ensure that hap- I would like it to be. And instance, they believe ducers of one export prod- more effectively. But, he for them to get support pens,” he maintained. certainly we can question that what they have seen, uct, or one main sector to said there is still more from government, and for (JRT) why the administration is and what they them- not putting certain things selves engage it is, in fact, on the book. So that I not corruption. don’t understand why in “But what I find inter- the context of 2021, still, esting about that, is that, there is this resistance to whereas the Act very im- the idea that we need to portantly provides certain tackle the issue of elec- assurances to people who tions and political party decide that look, I have financing a great deal. witnessed an act of cor- Not putting it on the ruption – of course, once table. It is absent from the they understand what Anti-Corruption Bill, corruption is – I’ve wit- which is out there in cir- nessed an act of corrup- culation.” tion, and therefore I want Additionally, the senior to disclose that act of cor- lecturer alluded to the ruption to whichever body Integrity in Public Life I want to disclose that act Act, which was rejected in to, whether it be the police Parliament. or particular hotline, or I “The Act fails to take want to go to a politician, certain categories of per- which is not advisable for sons who are in public life a number of reasons – into consideration. I am and unfortunately,that is concerned that, for in- in the act, as well – what stance, probably one of kind of incentives are we the most vulnerable insti- really giving people to tutions in relation to our blow the whistle? And national integrity system that’s a problem. I don’t is in fact the judicial sys- see that at all under the BARVEN President, Allister Alexander chatting with a member of that organisation while at the St. tem. And when you look Act.. Philip Polyclinic. at the integrity in public “And so, to me, that does life, there’s a deliberate not in itself translate to attempt to exclude people actually, deciding judges, and I guess other that, look, I have seen Some people still hesitant legal persons from the something, I’ve witnessed ambit of the law. something, and therefore “And I have concerns I’m going to go to my em- VACCINE from Page 1 lieve”. However, “we tried firmation, there are oth- March 20th a total of 902 about that and the reason ployer, or I’m going to go to spread the word and … ers who obviously are still individuals were immu- why I’m concerned is that to the police. So I’m going about being vaccinated there are about 40 who contemplating.” nised.This brings the total we know, not just inter- to go to the DPP or who- “because there are a lot of said they will be part of As recorded on the number of persons vacci- nationally, but certainly ever is the disclosing body mixed messages being the vaccination pro- Ministry of Health and nated locally to 61, 108. Of where the Caribbean is that you need to go to.So sent, fake news, all sorts of gramme expected today. Wellness’ Barbados this figure, 25, 465 are concerned, some judges of course, we need to look things and some people There have been those COVID-19 Situation males and 35, 643 are fe- have been bribed, and at that particular Act,” are not sure what to be- who have made that con- Report, on Saturday males.(MG) therefore we need to in- she said. (JH) 4• Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Access to clean water vital

(The following is a mes- tablishments. sage from Ms Audrey The difficulty of water Azoulay, Director-General access can also be meas- of UNESCO, on the occa- ured in time wasted and sion of World Water Day thus in educational and 2021) economic losses. The bur- den of fetching water is an AS is the case when it unequal one, mostly borne comes to anything hav- by women and girls. The ing to do with the envi- 200 million hours which ronment, the issue of they spend collecting water forces us to deal water every day are van- with our contradic- ished opportunities – for tions and our inability them and for society.They to accept that everyday are 200 million hours resources are both which could have been fragile and in short spent learning, reading, or supply. working. This is particularly the Ensuring universal ac- All of society suffers. From lish the World Water case with water, even cess to clean water is thus forced displacement to ris- Development Report though it is a total social crucial, particularly since ing child mortality rates, (WWDR) every year. fact and a total human reserves are limited and and from malnutrition to The publication of the fact. Not only because hu- needs are growing: nearly an increase in tensions re- WWDR is an opportunity mans cannot live without four billion people world- lated to access to re- for the Organization to drinking water, but also wide already experience sources, the crisis is a highlight the most sus- because water is essential severe water shortages at global one. tainable, most innovative to all our lives. least one month a year. Yet we continue to and most inclusive ways As coronavirus disease Climate change will fur- waste water, dumping to manage this all-impor- (COVID-19) has reminded ther aggravate global some 80% of untreated tant resource. The value us, water is also matter of water stress. If we stand sewage into the environ- of water is far from being Ms Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. health. by idly,by 2030, humanity ment. merely monetary. Access to clean water is will be lacking 40% of the Greater awareness is As Benjamin Franklin meant to be a call to ac- multifold value of water vital to hygiene, yet in the water it needs. necessary if we are to put said: "When the well's dry, tion. Responsibility lies and take action to con- middle of a pandemic, peo- The consequences of a stop to this crisis. we know the worth of with all of us. serve this basic resource, ple are unable to wash such a situation are incal- This is the reason why, water." We should not wait Governments, associa- the resource which gives their hands in two out of culable.As water reserves in conjunction with the for the well to run dry. tions, private partners: we our planet its unique every five healthcare es- dwindle, so does society. UN-Water family,we pub- World Water Day is must all recognize the colour. The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 5

Bostic outlines several plans for health ministry GOVERNMENT in- at David Thompson. So gramme, which is being the cancer plan, as well tends to advance its that is also included in spearheaded by the as the nutrition policy plans to implement the our estimates for the next Queen Elizabeth going forward. That for us 24-hour system at an- financial year,” he stated. Hospital. And I men- is significant because the other of the island’s Outlining additional tioned these three things, intent here is for us to be polyclinics. plans of his ministry, along too with a draft of able to save lives, and in That’s the word from Bostic indicated that they child nutrition policy, cases where it is not a Health and Wellness will also be putting which we've been able to matter of saving lives, we Minister, Lt. Col. Jeffrey greater focus on the fight put together with support want to be able to afford Bostic. During the against non-communica- from PAHO [Pan people the opportunity to Estimates Debate in the ble diseases (NCDs), as American Health live a better quality of life, House of Assembly on NCDs continue to be the Organisation] after con- even if they're inflicted Friday, Bostic said that major threat to health sultations and involve- with any of the NCDs,” he having started with the care in this country. ment of major stakehold- indicated. Winston Scott Polyclinic, “One of the things that ers locally. And I men- Meanwhile, on the mat- they intended, in the not COVID has clearly tioned these things to- ter of vector control, too distant future, to ex- demonstrated to me and gether, because this is a Bostic said there is a proj- tend the hours at the to any one of us in here new approach that we ect currently under dis- David Thompson Health beyond the shadow of will be adopting in the cussion, regarding the and Social Services doubt, is that we have a new financial year and eradication of the aedes Complex located in St. big problem with NCDs beyond,” he stated. aegypti mosquito. While John. in this country and it's Minister Bostic ex- not giving many details “We had some setbacks something that we will plained that Government on the project, he said it with that, obviously, be- continue to tackle,” he will be pursuing an inte- will also have a revenue cause of COVID, but early stated. grated approach to generating component. in the next financial year, In that vein, he said healthcare. He told those His comments came as Health and Wellness Minister, Lt. Col. Jeffrey we will be starting the that a new strategic plan gathered in the Lower he said the Ministry has Bostic. process of implementing for NCDs is being devel- House that that they initiated an integrated the 24-hour service in St. oped. According to Bostic, recognise that there is a mosquito management the fight against dengue. northern half and two in John, first of all by having that plan will soon be dire need for the Ministry programme and have em- “This equipment in- the southern half, along an extended clinic, which going to Parliament for to collaborate more with ployed 40 mosquito con- cludes several handheld with the handheld fog- will run from eight to approval. the private health care fa- trol aids. The minister foggers, as well as some gers, and also the person- eight daily, and that will “That includes some cilities. added that new equip- vehicle mounted foggers nel who will be trying to be followed, once we've other things like the na- “We saw it during ment acquired by the that will allow us to be identify mosquito breed- been able to analyse all tional cancer plan, which COVID and it is going to Ministry, as well as some able to deploy four vehicle ing sites so that we can the information, with the we intend to implement, be most appropriate in donated by PAHO, will mounted foggers through- really address this prob- complete 24-hour service and the cardiac care pro- terms of cardiac care, and also be utilised to assist in out the country two in the lem,” he declared. (JRT) Focus now on Artists in control By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste art galleries. “We don’t need to be so rebuilding COVID-19 may have reliant on the art gal- turned the world upside leries, right now we have down but it has allowed the power. So maybe we for artists to have more might have needed productive control of their art. COVID-19 for people to Speaking during the realise that everything Caribbean Fine Art Fair could be done online and (CaFA) panel discussion you don’t have to use the sectors that focused on Art in a art galleries,” he said. Post-Digital COVID “Not that I’m saying NUPW from Page 1 becomes relevant. To en- World, Interdisciplinary that we no longer need the sure that we grow the artist and anthropologist, art galleries but they are “This organisation is as economy and restart our Alexis Alleyne-Caputo on the brink of becoming strong and relevant as it livelihoods, we need to en- highlighted that artists of obsolete and the only rea- is because of the contin- sure that we are safe and colour have been exploited son that wouldn’t become ued faith of its members never let our guard down by world galleries in the obsolete is become people both old and new.” about protocols and past and one of her major like the experience of With the country com- safety,” he urged. concerns and fear was going to a gallery or the ing out of its second na- Rector of the St. George that these exploitative fact that you can go to a tional lockdown and ap- Parish Church Senator practices may increase as place and see the art and pearing to be moving far Reverend Dr. John Rogers a result of artists transi- that may be the reason away from the high spikes noted the NUPW repre- tioning to a digital world. that galleries remain rel- recorded this year, he sentatives in attendance “By exploitative prac- evant but the artists need challenged that it is now that they go to the negoti- tices I am referring to gal- to realise that they no time to focus on forging ating table they must do leries who are now lean- longer need to be so de- ahead with 2021 and re- so with empathy. “You ing into the work of artists pendent on galleries as be- building the country’s pro- enter the negotiating President of the National Union of Public Workers to keep the foundation fore. ductive sectors and the table, recognizing that (NUPW), Akanni McDowall. going. They are now rely- “The whole world is civil supports that enable here is a child of God in ing very heavily on available to us right now. its functioning. need of reconciliation.And wrong.” the passion with which African art and Caribbean I think right now the tides “It is as we go back out you put forward your Reverend Rogers also the union started, to look art so that their framing are about to turn and the to work in full that the point, you put forward encouraged the members out for the needs of the could stand,” she said. art galleries wont have theme for this year's con- your case in such a way of the NUPW that as they downtrodden and the op- Shadrach Burton, a the power to exploit ference “Trade Union that even though those observer the Union’s 76th pressed, to champion the well-known visual artist, Caribbean and African Resilience in the midst of around the table will year, to “look deep within cause to be a voice for the believed that artists did art, unless we allow them the COVID-19 Pandemic” know that yes, this is yourselves again, revive voiceless...” (JH) not need to be so reliant on to do so.” 6 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Opportunities for Bajan companies in Africa TRADE and investment opportuni- ble. tionships work.” fort. So, we are actively now turning our ties await Barbadians in Africa. However, he said what tends to work Director of Business Support Services attention to the Kenyan market to see Minister of International Business and against Barbadian entities being able to at the Barbados Investment and what market opportunities may exist Industry, Ronald Toppin, said that mar- capitalise on these trade agreements is Development Corporation (BIDC), Fern there as well.” ket research has already been under- often the logistics. Lewis, told the House that BIDC has a Lewis also said BIDC has been in con- taken in the West African country of “When your goods get to Africa, how do very active engagement with govern- sultation with the Ministry about efforts Ghana, and findings suggest that there they get distributed? So you need some- ment ministries, such as the Ministry of to connect with the diaspora. are opportunities for Barbadian compa- one in market to be able to give you ad- Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade as “How do we engage the diaspora mar- nies in several areas – rum, condiments, vice...You need to ensure that to get your they pursue new markets – the most re- ket... So they have been actively advising processed meats, labels, solar water goods to Africa, given the cost that you cent being with Kenya. us how we could go about maximising the heaters, among others. might have to bear,that you are involved “When we were thinking of doing mar- resources that we already have – the Toppin, who was at the time contribut- in some sort of clustering between your- ket research in Ghana, we did some con- missions, overseas reps in those mar- ing to the debate on the Appropriations self and as many companies as possible, sultation with the Ministry.Now we have kets. And we have been discussing with Bill in the House of Assembly, main- or maybe as many countries as possible recently started the market research ef- them a more formal way of being able to tained that it is in Barbados’ best inter- in the region – pooling together to ensure fort in Kenya, and we have also been in engage all our missions, wherever they est to pursue trade relationships with that they can minimise cost – share cost consultation with them to see how best are, to help us position Barbados’ goods Africa, and as many countries as possi- as much as possible to make these rela- they would want to advise us in that ef- and services around the globe.” (TL)

Barbadians took advantage of the relaxed restrictions. Open businesses crucial for economy Vendors were back out this last week in their numbers. SHOPPING from Back Page the national pause so far this year. Not only the bottom line of dollars and cents currently, as the Ministry of Health and becomes of import, but also the liveli- Wellness are trying to ensure that the ex- hoods of staff for the larger businesses plosion of COVID-19 cases like what oc- and also the smaller ones which have no curred in January, does not happen other forms of income.All of these put to- again. gether helps to keep the Barbados econ- Businesses right now need to remain omy moving as the island seeks to re- open, as many of them have survived the build and establish a more stable foot- lockdown last year and barely survived ing.(AS)

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Seek God’s talent COVID-19 update THERE were 18 new pos- The number of cases in ratory has so far com- ONE religious leader cations, those who are been under distress and itive cases of COVID-19 isolation is now 182. pleted 136,463 tests. On believes that society most attractive, the most stress due to the events recorded on Saturday, The island has recorded Saturday, 902 persons should look for the best experienced, and influen- caused by the pandemic March 20, from the 422 3,551 confirmed cases – were vaccinated as part of in God’s eyes. tial, to be in positions of globally.He added that de- tests conducted by the 1,699 females and 1,852 the National Vaccination Reverend Paul Leacock, leadership. But he argued spite the expectation to go Best-dos Santos Public males – and 3,330 people Programme for COVID- who is the pastor at First that praying for God’s back to the ways of the Health Laboratory. They have recovered from the 19. To date, a total of Baptist Church, gave this choice is critical to finding past, he said people must comprise eight men and virus since March 2020. 61,108 vaccinations have message during his ser- a leader for God’s people. look to the life ahead of ten women. Twenty-eight There have been 39 been administered - mon on Sunday. “There is no success them. people recovered and were COVID-19 related deaths. 25,465 men and 35,643 In his early remarks, he without succession,” said discharged from isolation. The public health labo- women. said too often society fo- Rev. Leacock. Find a successor cused on those who have He said this is impor- through prayer the best academic qualifi- tant as churches have To further emphasise his message of praying for a leader of God’s people, the reverend used the metaphor of the relay race and how the baton must be passed to every runner at every leg if the team is expected to win. He noted that when the baton is not passed properly, it can re- sult in disqualification and losing the race. He opined that in the Christian context when there is the discussion about leadership and suc- cession, Rev. Leacock stressed the importance of not only carefully passing the baton but doing it “prayerfully”. Using the story of Moses, Reverend Leacock highlighted that like him, Reverend Paul Leacock of the First Baptist leaders of today must Church preached the need for society to look think about who will lead for the best in God’s eyes. after they are gone. Art galleries need to upgrade By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste around us, however the questions, it just feels a galleries would have to lot more personal but NOW is the time for art step up and integrate the right now when you galleries to integrate technology with the walls just post your work technology into their op- so to speak,” she said. in a virtual exhibition it erations. “There would be many doesn’t really have that This is the view of avenues that we would same personal artist-au- artists that took part in need to go into and it will dience interaction,” he the Caribbean Fine Art be up to the galleries to said. Fair (CaFA) panel discus- really step up their offer- “But you do have the sion that focused on Art ing to the public so that advantage of having your in a Post-Digital COVID someone that would want work be more available World. to come and experience it to the audience in the Patricia Brintle, a vi- in person would be able sense that they could be sual artist who partici- to do it.” at home viewing it or pated in CaFA for many Visual artist Shadrach show it to a friend or years, highlighted that if Burton echoed Brintle’s spouse and they could art galleries were left as thoughts and added that easily access your work is, they would become ob- it was up to the galleries instead of going all the solete. to find a balance between way to the gallery.” “I don’t think people technology and the art. Burton noted that want that because we “As an artist, I really while art galleries may still want to have these love going to art galleries become obsolete if they art shows, regardless of and art openings, I love did not change, persons how extraordinary the going to the galleries and still enjoyed attending for technology will become seeing the audience in- the experience, however, we still basically will be teract with the work and he was of the firm view human beings who will walk up to the painting that it was important for need to have the interac- and observe everything art galleries to integrate tion with other human about the art and inter- technology into their beings and the world act with artists and ask daily operations. 8 • Monday March 22, 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 Pope decries shame of racism, How will the like ‘virus’ lurking in wait

VATICAN CITY – Pope Discrimination. #FratelliTutti. “Fratelli his papacy, he has US progress? Francis yesterday de- The pope likened racism Tutti” is the title of championed the rights nounced racism, likening to a “a virus that quickly the encyclical, or special of people who are it to a virus that lurks in mutates and, instead of teaching document, marginaliszed in societies, QUITE a number of positions have been put forward waiting and only to disappearing, goes into which the pope issued last including migrants. quite recently as to what the new Joe Biden emerge and show that hiding, and lurks in year in the midst of the The annual UN administration in the United States will do to assist “our supposed social waiting.” COVID-19 pandemic to commemoration on March countries in this region. progress is not as real “Instances of racism press for solidarity, 21 falls on the anniversary What is also interesting in the scheme of things or definitive” as people continue to shame us, for brotherhood and care of the day that police is that with the United States locked in global think. they show that our sup- for the environment in Sharpeville, South competition with China, then there is the belief Francis tweeted on posed social progress is worldwide. Africa, opened fire and that the US should lose no time in coming to the racism on the date that not as real or definitive In his tweet, Francis killed 69 people at a attention of this region which China is also the United Nations marks as we think,” Francis cited no particular peaceful demonstration targeting. as International Day for tweeted, adding the hash- instance of racism against apartheid laws One very significant position was sounded the Elimination of Racial tags #FightRacism or place. Throughout in 1960. by David Lewis,Vice President of Manchester Trade Limited. He said during a lecture that under the new US President, there will be new opportunities that will most likely cover foreign direct investments, Palestinians expand vaccination production and trade, and cooperation agreements. Such will be built on the historic Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) which dates back to the early 1980s when the then USA President Ronald Reagan campaign after UN shipment conceptualised the arrangement.That arrangement was a response to the tensions which were threatening to embrace the Caribbean and for GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – rival of President responsibility. But in approved its use. foreign powers to gain a further foothold in the The Palestinian Health Mahmoud Abbas based recent weeks, it has Bootsma noted that region considered as the backyard of the USA. Ministry began adminis- in the United Arab inoculated over 100 000 both vaccines “have been For its part the CBI has offered market access for tering the first doses of Emirates. Palestinian labourers in validated by WHO Caribbean goods and services, entering the Unites coronavirus vaccines it Mohammed Dahlan, the West Bank who have globally through very States, financial assistance and investments. It received from the global who has been living in permits to work inside lengthy and stringent came at a time when political tensions were COVAX initiative to Abu Dhabi since falling Israel and its West Bank process.” mounting in some Central American and Caribbean health care workers and out with Abbas in 2011, settlements. Dr. Majdi Dhair, a states, which created some worries to the US. older residents in the has secured the delivery The Pfizer/BioNTech health ministry official, The small islands making up the Caribbean were West Bank and Gaza of 60 000 shots to Gaza and AstraZeneca vac- said only 11 200 of Gaza’s hit hard by the 2009 global economic crisis which a Strip yesterday. and promised more, em- cines are the first two million residents lot of them have still not fully recovered from, and The World Health barrassing Abbas ahead distributed by COVAX in have been inoculated so are now feeling the brunt of another crisis Organization and its of Palestinian elections the Palestinian territo- far, saying the turnout in the form of COVID-19. partners running planned in May. ries. “started to grow” a month So issues like capital inflows, trade openings for the United Nations In the West Bank, At a Gaza City clinic, after the rollout of their industries, the removal of impediments to COVAX program deliv- Palestinian Prime five WHO workers and vaccines. Bootsma said international business – as in the case of Barbados ered 61 400 vaccines to Minister Mohammad five local medical the limited number of – and support for regional integration, are the Palestinian Authority Shtayyeh said the vac- workers were the first vaccines in Gaza important considerations for stimulating our on Wednesday, whereas cines would go to medical to be inoculated with prevents a mass vaccina- economies. 21 300 were shipped workers and older people. COVAX-donated doses. tion campaign. So there is certainly a case for the Joe Biden to the blockaded, Hamas- “We are here to start the “We are very proud to The Gaza Strip has administration to do something positive for the controlled Gaza Strip. preventive vaccination be here today with our es- seen at least 58 000 countries on the southern border of the US. In this The vaccine shipment drive for our people teemed colleagues” to confirmed cases of context expectations will be high when it comes is a boost to the West against the coronavirus,” promote the first arrival COVID-19 since August to the US. But how will the Americans proceed. Bank, where the PA has he said. of vaccines through and 582 deaths. The Since the last 1990s several multilateral trade struggled to obtain Even with the arrival COVAX, said Sacha West Bank has reported agreements have sprung up, notably Enterprise vaccines as the infection of the vaccines, the Bootsma, head of WHO’s nearly 163 000 COVID- Initiative of the Americas, the North American Free rate surged in recent Palestinian areas lag far Gaza office, who received 19 cases and 1 824 Trade Agreement, and the Free Trade Agreement weeks. Until now it had behind Israel, which has the first shot of vaccine deaths. of the Americas. only secured 10 000 doses vaccinated some 80% of at the event. In recent weeks, The latter which involved all the countries of Russia’s Sputnik V its adult population. She added that a Hamas authorities making up the western hemisphere with the excep- vaccine and 2 000 shots The disparity has second shipment of governing the territory tion of Cuba, was thought to be the one pact which from Israel for the drawn attention to the 57 600 AstraZeneca have eased almost all would be the catalyst for change and building a roughly three million inequities in the global vaccines is expected to be coronavirus restrictions, true integration model in the Americas. Palestinians living in distribution of vaccines delivered to Gaza by the despite warnings from However, disputes among some of the key players the West Bank. between rich and poor end of April. health officials. – the US, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico – stalled the By contrast, Gaza, countries. Some European coun- Bootsma criticised the proceedings and it is now on hold. which has been under UN officials and tries have raised safety move. But Lewis sees a big role for the private sector Israeli-Egyptian block- human rights groups concerns about the “The COVID-19 pan- since governments alone cannot be at the forefront ade since Hamas took have said Israel is AstraZeneca vaccine. demic is not over yet. We of going after opportunities, simply because they do control of the area in an occupying power with But major countries, are all still at risk not have the resources in sufficient quantities to do 2007, has received more a responsibility for vacci- including France, Italy of becoming infected, it. Many of the countries are running high fiscal than 80 000 vaccines. nating the Palestinian and Germany, have especially now that the deficits and huge debts which make governments Most of them were population. Israel says begun using the vaccine government has eased all more cautious in how they go about policy making. of the Russian variety that under interim peace again, and Palestinian the restrictions,” she The private sector has been dubbed the engine and have come from a accords, it has no such authorities have said. of growth and this is what Lewis said boldly that he expects to see. They have to seek out Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes the opportunities that become available once E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves the US administration provides the environment Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan for such. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 9

China announces new major discoveries at Sanxingdui Ruins CHENGDU – Chinese ar- they form an area in rest of the newly discov- chaeologists announced which people of the an- ered pits are still under Saturday that some new cient Shu civilisation of- excavation. major discoveries have fered sacrifices to heaven, In addition, pieces of been made at the leg- earth and their ancestors, miniature ivory sculp- endary Sanxingdui Ruins and prayed for prosperity tures, residues of silk and site in southwest China, and peace, according to textile products, car- helping shed light on the Tang Fei, head of the exca- bonised rice, and seeds of cultural origins of the vation team at Sanxingdui trees were excavated. Chinese nation. and chief of the Sichuan The discoveries have Archaeologists have Provincial Cultural Relics shown the distinctiveness found six new sacrificial and Archaeology Research of the Shu civilisation and pits and unearthed more Institute. the diversity of the than 500 items dating The pits are rectangu- Chinese civilisation, said back about 3,000 years at lar,with areas ranging be- Ran Honglin, another re- the Sanxingdui Ruins in tween 3.5 square meters searcher with the insti- Sichuan Province, the and 19 square meters.So tute. National Cultural far, archaeologists have The Sanxingdui Ruins Heritage Administration unearthed various cul- site is among China’s top This undated file photo shows ivory carving relics unearthed from a sacrificial announced in the provin- tural items from four of 10 archaeological finds of pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China’s Sichuan Province. cial capital Chengdu. the pits, including pieces the 20th century.Covering The new pits sit next to of gold masks, gold foil, 12 square km, the relics from Chengdu, is believed some 4,800 years and last- Sanxingdui Ruins under two sacrificial pits discov- bronze masks, bronze site, located in the city of to be the remnants of the ing over 2,000 years. state-level protection in ered in 1986. Together trees, ivory and jade. The Guanghan, about 60 km Shu Kingdom, dating back Authorities placed the 1988. China to continue providing vaccine Wuhan aid for global pandemic response launches A SPOKESPERSON 2021’s with China Inter- national Development Cooperation Agency first (CIDCA) said on Friday that by providing vac- cine aid, China will tourist continue to work with all parties to make new contributions to the train global fight against the pandemic of COVID-19. WUHAN (Xinhua) – CIDCA spokesperson This year’s first Tian Lin said China is pro- tourist train from viding or will provide vac- Wuhan, capital of cine aid to 80 countries central China’s Hubei and three international Province,was organisations. And for launched on Saturday, some countries that really according to local have difficulties, China transport authorities. also provides syringes to The train carrying facilitate their use of the nearly 900 tourists is vaccines.“The aid is being scheduled for the city delivered in a timely and of Xiangyang in the orderly manner.” province. Tian said the scope of During the two- vaccine aid covers 26 The first batch of Chinese-donated COVID-19 vaccine doses is unloaded from a plane at Robert Mugabe day journey, tourists Asian countries,34 International Airport in Harare, Zimbabwe on Feb. 15, 2021. can visit a popular African countries, four movie location and countries in Europe, 10 in issued emergency use per- timely access to vaccines aid, China is not a saviour, while poor countries re- other tourist destina- America, and six in mits for Chinese vaccines. for developing countries; but we are willing to be a main empty-handed. This tions, said the operat- Oceania, adding that “The COVID-19 vaccine second, the severity of the friend in need and a sin- severely imbalanced situ- ing company of the China is also providing aid is the first big-scale epidemic and the specific cere partner to help our ation has aroused deep train. vaccine aid to the African vaccine aid operation vaccine aid needs of the friends in times of diffi- concerns in the interna- “The tourist train is Union, the Arab League since the founding of the countries concerned; and culty,” he said. tional community, espe- quite cost-effective and and UN peacekeepers. People’s Republic of third, the capacity of the Since the second half of cially in developing coun- the travel arrange- The vaccine aid opera- China,” said Tian. Chinese government to last year,the international tries,” he said. ments are suitable for tions have fully demon- With the Chinese vac- provide vaccines,” he said. community has become in- “We need to make us middle-aged and strated the trust in the cines getting conditional “China’s anti-pandemic creasingly concerned efforts to promote the elderly people,” said a safety and effectiveness of market approval, China is supplies and vaccine aid about the global vaccine equitable distribution of tourist surnamed the Chinese vaccines fulfilling its promise of pri- are totally open and hon- “distribution deficit”, as vaccines globally,” he said. Wang. shown by the interna- oritising the provision of est,”Tian said, adding that vaccine research and de- He said China hopes The company also tional community, espe- vaccines to developing “our goal is to help other velopment continues to that the international plans to launch other cially other developing countries, Tian said. developing countries to advance and vaccines community will resolutely short-distance tourist countries, Tian said. “The following factors save as many innocent gradually come into use in oppose acts of profiting at train routes, along According to the are our main considera- lives as possible, without different countries. others’ expense, hoarding with long-distance spokesperson, to date, over tions when we formulate any geopolitical purpose “High-income countries and monopolising, and ones to regions outside 60 countries have ap- an aid plan: first, the ben- or political conditions.” have obtained massive firmly stand against “vac- the province. proved market access or efits of equitable and “On the issue of vaccine vaccine supplies rapidly, cine nationalism.” 10 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

New report analyses socioeconomic repercussions of COVID-19 in the Caribbean

SANTIAGO, Chile – A new, joint report “That is why it is urgently necessary to move towards a disaster risk is “systemic” and that it by the Economic Commission for Latin “generates complex interactions between America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) systemic approach to disaster risk, primarily in the human, social, political and economic and the United Nations Office for Caribbean, which is highly vulnerable to the effects of systems on the one hand, and natural Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) has systems on the other”. analysed the socioeconomic climate change, with economies dependent on foreign “The COVID-19 pandemic repercussions of COVID-19 in the tourism and heavy debt burdens.” demonstrates the extent to which a Caribbean and the urgency of moving single hazard has the potential to trigger towards a systemic approach to disaster effects of coronavirus disease (COVID- disaster risk, primarily in the Caribbean, a series of cascading effects, impacting risk. 19), combined with the possible impact which is highly vulnerable to the effects the life-support systems of societies and According to ECLAC, the special of other hazards and recent events, of climate change, with economies economies worldwide,” the report says. report also addresses challenges, threaten to damage or destroy vital dependent on foreign tourism and heavy Alicia Bárcena, ECLAC’s executive opportunities and recommendations for infrastructure and the life-support debt burdens,” it adds. secretary, said that “this crisis moving towards a “risk-informed systems of large parts of societies and The report – “The coronavirus disease underscores the need for disaster risk recovery and development model in the economies,” the report warns. (COVID-19) pandemic: an opportunity management to be incorporated into Caribbean”. “That is why it is urgently necessary to for a systemic approach to disaster risk national planning in order to guarantee “The large-scale and long-lasting move towards a systemic approach to for the Caribbean,” emphasises that a comprehensive response to disasters”. Cancer on the rise in T&T Drug shortages, malfunctioning machines, overworked doctors CANCER, this country’s second announced in 2018 the termination of leading cause of death, is on the rise the centre’s contract. and the chairman of the T&T Cancer Last June, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Society (TTSC) Dr. Asante Le Blanc Rowley said at the launch of an $84 is concerned. million Linear Accelerator Wing at the St Her organisation operates on funds James Medical Complex that his received from corporate sponsors and the Government could have spent more Government to provide screening at a money on equipment to treat cancer had reduced cost and promotes awareness to it not been for past corruption. citizens. Three years ago, their “There is a lot more work to be done. “subvention was almost taken away” but When you think of how much it costs to they were able to show the Government treat one cancer patient, just one, the the work they have been doing and “got millions of dollars for just one patient, their subvention,” she revealed. this is why the society is promoting However, the State’s funding is a drop prevention, education and screening in the bucket to the work the TTSC has because if we get early detection we will been undertaking. Every month the spend much less money and we will save TTCS screens between 300 to 500 lives,” Le Blanc said. patients for breast, cervical, prostate and Admitting the health system has faced colorectal cancers. shortages of drugs, machines Commenting on recent cancer malfunctioning while doctors are statistics, Le Blanc said based on the overworked and overwhelmed, Le Blanc TTCS’s latest data “we did not see what said no system is perfect. we wanted to see which is a decrease.” “But I can tell you honestly they have She is worried because if corporate T&T improved and they are trying,” she said. pulls its funding, it would put the society Last month, Health Minister Terrence on shaky ground. Deyalsingh said it costs the State $500 “You can’t bemoan the Government 000 to treat one lung cancer case. has a lot on their plate,” she said. Between 2013-2017, there were 641 lung Since the closure of T&T’s borders last cancer deaths. March, the TTCS has seen an uptake of As to how many new cancer cases are patients. Le Blanc said the TTCS wants detected annually, one of the country’s to undertake studies with PSA testing leading oncologist Dr.Kavi Capildeo puts and prostate cancer and are currently the figure at 4 000. Capildeo, who is doing research on the prevalence of based at the St James Medical Complex, childhood cancers in a certain part of treats 1 500 of these patients and attends Trinidad to see if environmental factors to six to seven of them every week. have been contributing to the disease. A year supply of the drug Trastuzumab Le Blanc is of the view that T&T does to treat a patient with breast cancer said not have sufficient public health care can cost the State $100 000,” he said. facilities to treat cancer patients. “There are treatments that are difficult “We have to do more when it comes to to get in the public service and there are oncology in T&T,” she said. some procedures that we can’t get locally There is a need for a centralised at all, for example, bone marrow oncology unit that can provide co- transplantation, stem cell ordination of all treatments and post- transplantations, stereotactic treatments, counselling, nutrition, radiotherapy.” acupuncture and institutionalisation. If someone has relapsed lymphoma In 2002, then prime minister Patrick and the treatment requires bone marrow Manning promised a National Oncology transplantation,“you would have to look Centre as the main treatment facility for at whether you are able to fund that in cancer. The cost of construction, initially Cuba or the US or Colombia, and then, estimated at $144 million, was put at the cost can become very much an issue”. $800 million in 2012. After spending “In the States that can hit US$200 000 $300 million on a foundation, Health and more. In Colombia, it is probably Minister Terrence Deyalsingh half that,” Capildeo said. The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 11

Tougher COVID-19 Cuba to vaccinate 150 000 front-line workers restrictions imposed in as part of final phase of clinical trial Bermuda as cases soar HAVANA – Cuba COVID-19, as the phase of a handful in the region The island of 11 million announced yesterday it three trial of this vaccine that have not started inhabitants is registering HAMILTON, Bermuda – will still end at 5:00 am. would vaccinate 150 000 is demonstrating it is very vaccinating against 600 to 1 000 new cases The Government of Burt, who said “We must front-line workers as part safe,” Foreign Trade and COVID, as it is counting each day, well above the Bermuda has introduced act now”, added that clubs of the final phase of a Investment Minister on its own candidates. scores or a handful per tougher restrictions after a and bars will be banned clinical trial of the Rodrigo Malmierca Cuba’s drug regulatory day for most of last year. surge of coronavirus cases from serving customers country’s leading COVID- tweeted. authority on Thursday Since the pandemic saw 40 recorded in the past indoors and outdoor service 19 vaccine candidate amid Soberana 2 has been in also approved a second started, the country has three days with the spread will be at tables only – with a surge in cases. the final phase of a clinical COVID-19 vaccine reported 65 000 cases and on-island of the deadlier the group size reduced to The shots using the trial for the past three candidate for late-stage 387 deaths, one of the UK variant. six.According to Education Soberana 2 vaccine will weeks involving 44 000 clinical trials called lowest rates in the world As a result, the curfew Minister Diallo Rabain, start Monday and target volunteers from the Abdala. per capita. period was lengthened and government schools may medical and other general population. Cuba is going through The government has the number of people return to remote learning if personnel at high risk, the The Communist-run its worst coronavirus vowed to vaccinate the allowed at gatherings will cases continue to rise. authorities said. Caribbean island nation, outbreak since the start of entire population this year be cut from 25 to ten. News of the increased “Cuba could immunize which has long experience the pandemic after with one of its five In making the restrictions, which will be 150 000 people with developing and opening its borders late experimental shots in announcement late in force for at least three immediately from exporting vaccines, is one last year. development. Saturday, Premier David weeks, came as 16 new Burt said that starting COVID-19 infections were Sunday, that night-time revealed by health officials. lockdown will now begin at Six cases were reported on 11:00 pm (local time) Friday following 18 on instead of midnight, but it Thursday. 15 C’bean nationals nabbed in suspected human smuggling venture off Florida coast MIAMI, United States – notified Coast Guard The United States Coast Station Miami Guard law enforcement watchstanders of the teams have interdicted suspected smuggling several Caribbean vessel at about 12:20 am nationals in a suspected (local time). human smuggling venture “Wednesday’s case off the south coast of spotlights the great work Cuba announced yesterday it would vaccinate 150 000 front-line workers as part of the final phase of a Florida. done every day by Air and clinical trial of the country’s leading COVID-19 vaccine candidate amid a surge in cases. According to Coast Marine and our DHS Guard officials, the partners,” said John suspects – two Bahamians, Priddy,Executive Director seven Jamaicans, two of the AMO Southeast Suriname airline to launch flights Haitians and four from the Region. “With our Dominican Republic, were integrated operations,we nabbed last Wednesday in get the job done and to Guyana, Barbados and Curacao a 29-foot vessel about five protect our homeland.” miles off West Palm Beach, Since October 1, 2020, GEORGETOWN, (CJIA). been building and coming been transmitted, will very Florida. the US Coast Guard said Guyana – A carrier from “Fly All Ways out of along and we want to get to well see in the very shortest “Some passengers were crews have interdicted 78 neighbouring Suriname Suriname will be operating a stage where we are possible time, all the staff, brought ashore for further Bahamians, eight is scheduled to start the Suriname route, the opened back up full blast which will include investigation of potential Jamaicans, 182 Haitians, flying to Guyana and Barbados route and for business.” immigration, customs, criminal charges by 194 Dominican other countries in the Curacao route out of the Regarding the safety of handlers and all the staff at Homeland Security Republicans compared to region in the near Cheddi Jagan staff at CJIA, Edghill said the airport being Investigations and the fiscal year 2020, October 1, future. International Airport,” he he is advocating on behalf vaccinated.” remaining passengers 2019 – September 30, This was recently said, while adding that the of the Board of Directors to Guyana signed an Open were repatriated to the 2020, in which crews announced by Public government anticipates have vaccines available to Skies Agreement with Bahamas Friday,” the interdicted 194 Works Minister Bishop that more airlines will staff since they are Suriname last December to Coast Guard said in a Bahamians, four Juan Edghill during a come on stream. frontline workers. broaden connectivity and statement. Jamaicans, 418 Haitians press briefing at the “We are happy that “So,my engagement with tap into new and existing The US Coast Guard and 1 117 Dominican Cheddi Jagan traffic at CJIA, even in a the minister of health and markets with the Dutch said a CBP AMO aircraft Republicans. International Airport Covid environment has the letter that has already nation.

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

High: 8:05 a.m. 11:08 p.m. London Temp: 09 Cloudy Yesterday: 0 mm Boston Temp: 16 Clear Low: 1:39 a.m. For the month: 19.6 mm Max: 29.2°C Montreal Temp: 09 Clear and 4:01 p.m. For the year: 194.7 mm Min: 23.6°C Toronto Temp: 14 Clear New York Temp:09 Clear Miami Temp: 26 Cloudy 6:02 a.m. 6:09 p.m. 12 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Prosecutors throw Brazil officials warn clash looms the book at money launderer between Indigenous, miners BRASILIA, Brazil – A potential clash situation only if not quoted by name, their conflicts by themselves, but this for Venezuela is looming in northern Brazil citing security concerns. time they are turning to us.” MIAMI – Federal prosecutors in Miami between the Munduruku people and The federal Public Ministry has Videos and photos show an attempt to are seeking a stiff prison sentence mining prospectors armed with requested reinforcements for federal negotiate by the two sides and also a against a US-based money manager rifles and handguns who have forces in the region, but says “nothing helicopter flying over the site. they claim is hindering their efforts to intruded into Indigenous lands in has been done so far”. There was no Prosecutors believe the aircraft is helping seize a $2.7 million home and other the Tapajós River basin of Para immediate comment from Funai, the the miners monitor for government assets he agreed to forfeit when he state, federal prosecutors warned federal agency responsible for Indigenous enforcement agents. Indigenous people pleaded guilty to laundering bribe Saturday. groups. are also pictured trying to disembark payments for a corrupt Venezuelan Officials in the Federal Prosecutor’s The Public Ministry has been receiving from boats but being stopped. official. Office in Para told the Press that the images from the Indigenous people According to one of the reports heard by Colombian-born Gustavo Hernandez Munduruku community is prepared to themselves who “are asking for help,” one AP, the Munduruku have about 80 Frieri pleaded guilty in 2019 to a single defend its land but is also asking for help. official in the prosecutor’s office said in a fighters.The number of miners, however, count of conspiring to launder money for The prosecutors agreed to discuss the phone interview. “They prefer to resolve is much larger, prosecutors said. his role in a $1.2 billion embezzlement scheme involving Venezuela’s state-run oil giant PDVSA. As part of his plea deal, Hernandez Frieri agreed to assist prosecutors in the forfeiture of assets and proceeds from the scheme. However, in their sentencing memo filed Friday night, prosecutors portray Hernandez Frieri as an unrepentant, recalcitrant defendant who “has not learned from his past criminal conduct”. Despite the lack of a previous criminal record, they are seeking a “more substantial” prison sentence than the one recommended by probation officers and near the maximum ten years allowed by federal sentencing guidelines. Prosecutors cite two instances where Hernandez Frieri allegedly failed to cooperate. In one case, without notifying the court, he allegedly manoeuvred to transfer his stake in a trust that owns a $2.7 million home in the leafy Miami suburb of Coral Gables to his ex-wife instead of forfeiting it as required. In a recent court hearing, Hernandez Frieri acknowledged living with his ex- wife and their children in the same house though the two divorced shortly after his 2018 arrest on a US warrant while on vacation in Italy. The two also Munduruku Indigenous attend a meeting with the government at the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil. share a joint defence agreement to pursue a common strategy aimed at protecting another property from seizure, prosecutors argue. Mexico probe links border governor to luxury properties Then there are the 31 traffic citations accumulated by Hernandez Frieri since 2001. MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s agency for said. persecute anyone.” “Based on his record, the defendant is curbing money laundering said Friday Garcia Cabeza de Vaca also said, “I But Garcia Cabeza de Vaca speculated not an individual who shows respect for the governor of the northern border state have no links to organised crime.” his brushes with the federal government the law and is someone who is not easily of Tamaulipas owns a large number of In February, the Attorney General’s had angered López Obrador’s deterred from committing the same luxury properties that it says don’t match Office filed a request to Congress to administration. He is among the offence more than once,” prosecutors the income from his government jobs over remove the governor’s immunity from National Action Party governors who wrote. “He should be made to the last 20 years. prosecution, equivalent to a kind of have staked out opposition policies on understand that the crime of money The Financial Intelligence Unit said impeachment proceeding. The office the coronavirus pandemic and other laundering is a serious federal offence in a report to Congress that Gov. accuses Garcia Cabeza De Vaca of issues. with serious consequences.” Francisco Garcia Cabeza de Vaca earned organised crime, money laundering and He noted that his Gulf coast state is a Michael Pasano, a lawyer for about $2 million in wages and $1 million tax evasion. leading site of wind farms, an energy Hernandez Frieri, called the unusual in other income since 2000, but acquired He has denied any wrongdoing and source that López Obrador has proposed request by prosecutors – to throw the properties worth many times that. It also says the accusations are politically reducing in favour of fossil fuels. book at someone who pledged co- mentioned properties owned by the motivated. “They must be very upset over the way operation against several co- governor or his relatives in Texas. “All of this is a political attack,” said the we publicly exposed them,” the governor conspirators and whose guilty plea The agency also said front companies governor,who belongs to the conservative said, referring to an incident in December spared a lengthy trial – “wrong minded used by the Sinaloa drug cartel had opposition National Action Party. when the federal power utility – a pet and ill-spirited”. passed money through the same The report also mentioned presumed agency of the president – acknowledged “Mr. Hernandez will contest these company that assisted in purchasing one irregularities in government contracts it had falsified a document in an effort to claims at his court hearing,” Pasano told of Garcia Cabeza de Vaca’s luxury during Cabeza de Vaca’s administration, excuse a widespread blackout that the Press. Hernandez Frieri is scheduled apartments. However, the agency did not and possible benefits to him or his family month. to be sentenced on Thursday. say it has any direct evidence of links members. The Federal Electricity Commission Hernandez Frieri, a lawyer by between the governor and the cartel. Legislators will decide whether the denied the December 28 outage was the training, pleaded guilty to helping run a In a video, the governor said the agency accusations justify putting the governor result of incompetence. Instead, it said, a false investment scheme through an used “data and speculations that are on trial. brush fire in Tamaulipas had caused a investment firm he ran with his brother notoriously false” in drawing up its President Andrés Manuel López kind of short-circuit that led to a two- and brother in-law, Global Security report. “None of the homes that were Obrador said when the accusations hour blackout that affected one-fourth of Advisors. shown in the report belong to me,” he surfaced in February that “we do not the country’s customers.

Barbados Advocate

March 22, 2021 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS FOCUS ON GROWTH SOME strategic economic Classification. The work will be sectors with high prospects done in association with the for growth will be identified Third Sector, she explained. by the Ministry of Labour To date, the authorities have and Social Relations. identified tourism, international That is according to Dr.Karen business, and construction as the Best, Permanent Secretary in three most likely economic sec- the Ministry of Labour and tors to advance economic growth Social Partnership Relations. in Barbados and to create em- She was speaking in the House ployment. of Assembly last week, where de- The economy declined last bate continued on the Estimates year and the interest is on the of Revenue and Expenditure for first quarter of 2021 to see 2021/2022. whether there will be growth. Dr. Best said that these sec- Minister Colin Jordan said tors will also be identified for the that his ministry works with as- provision of jobs during the post sisting the island’s productive COVID-19 era.Additionally,she sectors and with Government’s revealed that attention will be expanding capital works pro- placed on occupational skills and gramme, training, and social those that will be demanded by partnerships. employers going forward. “We also have a role in improv- Provisions have been made in ing competitiveness in the the Estimates for an amount of economy and speak to removing $7.2 million for the Ministry. obstacles to growth we are so ag- Dr. Best said that to pursue the gressively pursuing,” Jordan goals she outlined, the Ministry said. He told the House that will have to update the Barbados these things are being done Standards Occupational through training. Can the economy rebound? ONE very important issue for allocated approximately $65 mil- Barbados is whether the 2021/- lion in budget support for the 2022 Estimates of Revenue and island’s 17 foreign missions. Expenditure will be enough to Another hope, he said, will be cause an economic rebound in found in the Ministries of the island. International Business and This point has been raised by Industry; and Tourism and Bruce Hennis, a member of the International Transport, with Economic Team of the People’s the latter having received the party for Democracy and relatively small increase of some Development (PdP). $5.8 million. In a commentary on the Hennis said that only time will Estimates, which are being de- tell if the amounts allocated in bated in the House of Assembly, the Estimates will be enough to he acknowledged the fall in rebound the economy, and more Barbados’ GDP last year. importantly, whether they have He said that one potential been correctly allocated strategi- hope for future growth lies in the cally. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and (See Page 5 for Hennis’ full Foreign Trade, which has been assessment) Dr. Karen Best, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Partnership Relations.

Remembering Sir Courtney A closer look at the Estimates of Reset button needed for Blackman Revenue and Expenditure manufacturing PAGES 2 & 4 PAGE 5 PAGE 6 2 • Monday March 22, 2021 Business Monday

Dr Worrell: Barbados has lost a giant, a master of his craft FORMER Governor of According to Dr.Worrell, I am eternally grateful for “Sir Courtney was a true management, which was a master of his craft and the Central Bank of “Sir Courtney’s was a life that. The day in 1972 that leader,thoughtful, forward his great strength.The les- an inspiration for his Barbados, Dr. Delisle well lived, long and pro- he recruited me to set up thinking, and generous to sons I learned from him times. Worrell, said that with ductive. He was my men- the Research Department a fault. He supported my are even now being redis- “Monica and I join with the passing of Sir tor and friend, and that for the new Central Bank adventurous spirit, and I covered by the world’s fore- Gloria, Courtney’s family Courtney Blackman, bond of friendship em- of Barbados was a turning was captivated by his vi- most schools of manage- and friends in celebrating Barbados has lost a braced Monica, my wife.” point in my life, and sion of the Central Bank of ment. his life, and we offer condo- giant, a master of his He said: “It was thanks opened paths for advance- Barbados as a world class “Much more could be lences to all who loved and craft and an inspiration to Sir Courtney that I be- ment that I had never institution. said, but suffice it to say respected him,” Dr Worrell for his times. came a central banker,and dreamed of. “He taught me the art of that we have lost a giant, said.

Sir Courtney – A titan of central banking

By Jewel Brathwaite its independence. At the age of 39, Sir Courtney THE death of Sir was given the task to build Courtney Blackman has an institution when he brought to an end an illus- was appointed Governor. trious career in central In the next 15 years he banking not seen any- served as Governor – 1972 where else in small devel- to 1987 – and he achieved oping countries. a lot, ably supported by Not only was his contri- the professionals he had bution to the growth moulded in the bank. and development of the In his book “One Central Bank of Barbados Economics Many very phenomenal, re- Recipes”, noted economist dounding also to the econ- Dani Rodrik penned two omy, but it is an experi- key chapters on institu- ence that will persist for tions and how they impact many more years and positively on societal de- serve as a catalyst for velopment and progress. The Central Bank of Barbados. In the formative years of the Bank, Sir Courtney (inset) and the Board of those who want to operate He writes that in practice Directors took the decision to bring its operations under a single roof by building a new headquarters which along the lines pioneered every successful market towers over Bridgetown. by Sir Courtney. economy is overseen by a The Bank was estab- panoply of regulatory in- labour, assets and finan- Annual Report. lished in 1972, six years stitutions, regulating con- cial markets. The Central ECONOMIC VIEWPOINT This latter publication after Barbados attained duct in goods, services, Bank of Barbados under provides the country with Sir Courtney fitted that tured an excellent team of policymaking had all of what the Bank has space admirably, with the professionals, including emerged and served to done during the year, how BANK RATES Bank under his watch economists, with some of deal with what subse- it helped in managing the emerging as one of the them having risen to be- quently took place, includ- economy, an outlook for Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of best run Government in- come Governor.In fact, the ing global recessions that the year ahead, and its fi- business on Friday by the Central Bank of Barbados. stitutions in Barbados. current holder of that of- Barbados successfully nancial performance. The functions of a cen- fice is Cleviston Haynes overcame. Nowhere else has this Valid for March 22, 2021 tral bank are outlined by who started out as a young At the regional level, been done by central Notes: Harold Codrington who economist in the early three of Barbados’ trading banks in small developing Currency Buying Selling authored the publication: years of the Bank. partners also encountered countries and this attests Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 “Both Sides of the Coin: Sir Courtney had re- economic difficulties that to the vision Sir Courtney Canadian Dollar 1.57958 1.62630 The Story of the Central called that the bank’s saw currency devalua- set for the Bank. Speeches East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 Bank of Barbados 1972- participation in national tions along with other de- done by the Governor and Euro 2.33239 2.43061 2017”. economic policymaking fensive measures. Sir papers done by the Bank’s Pound Sterling 2.71739 2.83181 Those functions are: to formally began with the Courtney and his team economists were pub- United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 regulate the issue, supply establishment of the had to initiate policy re- lished not only in the Demand/Sight: and availability of money; Research Department in sponses to safeguard this Bank’s publications, but Currency Buying Selling promote monetary stabil- January 1973. However, country. also in regional and inter- Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.58858 1.62487 ity; promote a sound fi- its full range of policy in- The late Governor also national journals. East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 nancial structure; foster struments, he wrote, did engineered a programme But Sir Courtney also Euro 2.36662 2.41552 the development of money not become available until that informed and edu- had his run-ins with some Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 and capital markets in the issue of the new cated the public about the sections of the public. His Pound Sterling 2.75726 2.81424 Barbados; and foster Barbados currency in economy and economic repeated calls for wage re- United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 credit and exchange condi- December that year. To matters. News confer- straint in the early 1980s Telegraphic Transfer tions conducive to the him that was a baptism of ences were held quarterly. did not go down well with Currency Buying Selling orderly and sustained de- fire since in that year com- They were followed by a trade unions, who took Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 velopment of Barbados. modity prices had in- series of publications to direct aim at him. His de- Canadian Dollar 1.59158 1.62487 In the formative years creased, followed in 1974 ensure Barbadians were cision also to build the East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.37107 2.41552 of the Bank, Sir Courtney by the oil crisis which trig- kept abreast and in tune Bank’s new headquarters Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 and the Board of Directors gered a global recession. with issues in the econ- at the time and, which was Pound Sterling 2.76245 2.81424 took the decision to bring According to him, gov- omy, and globally. very necessary, also pro- United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 its operations under a sin- ernment and the Bank These included the voked controversy. But he gle roof by building a new officials reacted pragmat- Economic Reviews, the pressed on. INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL headquarters which tow- ically to these disruptive Economic and Financial Sir Courtney will be CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE ers over Bridgetown. Prior and unprecedented events Statistics, the annual long remembered for the RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS to that, the operations so that by the mid-1970s Balance of Payments work he has done in mak- N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. were spread across the the outline of a national Survey, and an Annual ing the best ever central BDS$ Treasury Building and in macroeconomic policy Statistical Digest. There bank in the Caribbean Guyana Dollar 0.00943 Jamaica Dollar 0.01373 the then Barnes Building began to appear. By that was as well the Chronicle and the confidence demon- T&T Dollar 0.29660 on Fairchild Street. time also, a distinctive of Central Bank policies, strated in it by the public. Sir Courtney also nur- methodology of economic and the flagship, the May he rest in peace. Business Monday Monday March 22, 2021 • 3

4 • Monday March 22, 2021 Business Monday

EDITOR’S Remembering Sir Courtney NOTEBOOK Blackman (1933-2021) “For God so loved the development, my weekly world, that he gave his columns, commercial Tourism only Son, that whoever banking, and the role of believes in him should not statutory corporations. perish but have eternal They were all very sector needs life.” - John 3:16 stimulating experiences. Systems and the CBB SIR Courtney worked on a major Blackman was eight technology project, to be revived years my senior. We starting in 1980, the overlapped at Harrison computerisation of the College in Barbados, pioneering initiative in Suddenly, but not bank. This was important gradually but never met at the Caribbean business uncharacteristically, he because the bank school. He graduated consulting marketplace. broke out into peals of recognised the expertise of AS the country reopens fully following the recent from the University of The company is still laughter and ended up on indigenous consultants pause, attention will be on just how soon and the West Indies in operating today, under the floor with a loud bang. and we delivered. Systems how fast tourism will rebound for Barbados’ Jamaica before I younger management The laughter continued continued to be the bank’s growth prospects. arrived on campus. since 2000, as Systems from his new position of preferred IT consultants It is the one industry that Barbados badly needs My first encounter with Consulting Ltd. stable equilibrium by for many years as it to have resuscitated since there appears nothing him was in 1977 when he Thus began a long and which time his secretary, strengthened its IT else to fast track economic growth. was Governor of the lasting mentorship and Mrs. Lucille Simmons, department internally to The industry and the associated ancillary Central Bank of Barbados friendship during which rushed into the office and what it is today. businesses (restaurants, tour operators, water (CBB). He was he always reminded me to asked me: “What are you In 1982, Dr. Blackman sports etc.) were hit hard since the start of this recommended by a family continually renew my doing with my Governor?” presented me with a book year. member to be guest intellectual capital. I pleaded innocence and, called “The Systems The lockdown the authorities said, was speaker at the launch of In 1980, on another visit having been satisfied that Approach” by C. West necessary to slow the growth in COVID-19 cases Systems, my management to his office, he was sitting he was safe and sound, she Churchman. He drilled for which there was an explosion after Christmas consulting firm. He in his chair with his two left us to continue our into me a quote from that 2020. readily agreed and feet apparently conversation. book: “There may be Therefore, the optimists among us have delivered a very comfortably perched on We continually shared economies of scale of informed that with the reopening international encouraging address as his desk, but in a position ideas on venture capital, production, but no flights especially from the key source markets like we embarked on a bold of unstable equilibrium. transportation, enterprise economies of scale of the USA and the UK will return bringing with management”. This has them the vast numbers of visitors. served me well in my Those not so optimistic prefer to see a more practice as a business gradual approach noting that any major influx of consultant over the years. visitors could put the country back where none of My interpretation of us wants it to return, and the fear of a further this comment is that spread of the virus. whereas a producer’s At the end of the day gradualism may be better. average cost per unit falls as scale is increased; the same is not true in management. In management, there is an optimal number of units for the manager to manage, as scale is increased. Circa 1986, amidst much political ridicule and resistance, he created the vision of the Central Bank complex which now consists of the Central Bank building itself, the Grand Salle, the Frank • DEBATE on the Estimates of Collymore Hall and, most recently, the Church Revenue and Expenditure will Village Green. In continue today in the House of December 15 2017, the Grand Salle was renamed Assembly. to honour Sir Courtney. His many visions and actions have resulted in •A virtual forum on investment the enhancement of the image of Barbados opportunities in Guyana will be internationally, the held tomorrow. creation of an example to his peers and subordinates, and the engagement of the wider • The National Insurance Scheme community to participate has advised that between March 22 in and benefit from holistic socio-economic and 26, its Cashier Points development. I extend sympathy on Customer Service will be open his passing to his widow between 8.30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Gloria Lady Blackman and the entire Blackman family. Business Monday Monday March 22, 2021 • 5

Rising debt Hennis assesses 2021-2022

By Bruce Hennis Estimates of Revenue

As a disclaimer, this article is based and Expenditure on the 2021-2022 Draft Estimates for Barbados, as posted on the Barbados Parliamentary website, March 9, 2021. for Barbados

What has happened so far? The difference between the projected amount of what was spent over what was received (the Fiscal Deficit) of $1.047 bil- lion, for the financial year April 2020 to March 2021 and what was originally bud- geted for the financial year April 2020 to March 2021, a deficit of $234 million, has left us in a hole that is $812.8 million deeper than planned for. This has therefore resulted in the island having to further rely on external funding sources. The deficit for the financial year April 2020 to March 2021 of $1,047 million or $1.05 billion has therefore without a doubt further contributed to an increase in the debt load on the island. To make up this shortfall, over Whilst Barbados’ economy grew by 1% between 2005 and 2015, its debt on the other hand grew by 174% during that same $1 billion will now come from interna- time period. tional financial institutions such as the Inter-American Development Bank, the to confirm this fact, in 2020, the United path for the country – one that will be Caribbean Development Bank, the States’ economy experienced its 5th heavily export oriented. Also of interest is the budget for the Peoples Republic of China, CAF (The worst fall – one that has now been Prime Minister’s office where: Development Bank for Latin America) surpassed only by the declines in the What does it look like so far? * Creative Economy Initiatives have and the IMF whilst the remaining $44.5 years of the 1930’s Great Depression, Of the total revenue of $2.6 billion that been allocated a total of some $260,000 - million will be sourced locally,specifically and in 1946, a year which marked the the government is seeking to take in, and this in spite of the fact that this industry from Treasury Notes, Debentures and end of World War 2. mainly from taxes, $818 million or just on a global level has once been measured Bond issues. Thus it goes without saying that over 30% of that total will be applied to as generating some $4.5 trillion Bear in mind that this is not the largest Barbados could probably be facing servicing the island’s debt load. This is in revenues; and shortfall ever to be presented in the a challenging season ahead. actually more money than will be spent * The “Development Of Tourism House. For example, in the Estimates for by any single ministry alone and results Potential”, the budget for which has been the years 2014-2015 the “Projected Slow growth, rising debt from the earlier discussion. increased by $2.1 million over the Overall Fiscal deficit” was – $1.7 billion. The other concern facing Barbados has After that, the remaining expenditures previous year. However, and this is a very significant been its inability to be fully self-financing will be allocated among the government’s Another potential hope for the coun- “However”, please do take note that all of especially in the years in which more was operations. try’s future growth, perhaps lies in the this is happening after the calendar year spent than had been taken in by way of First and foremost, there has been Ministry Of Foreign Affairs And Foreign 2020, when Barbados’ economy experi- taxes. In times such as those, the little change in the order of the Trade where just maybe the island could enced its largest ever decline since the difference was made up by borrowing – expenditures by the various ministries possibly have its commercial potential 1960’s, which therefore begs the very whether from local or from overseas from 2020/2021 to 2021/2022 globally diversified in the budgeted serious question of how much longer will sources. Secondly,the government is seeking to amount of just over 65 million for its we remain on this seemingly cycle of slow Thus, whilst Barbados’ economy grew spend an additional $23 million in the 17 overseas missions. growth and high debt? by 1% between 2005 and 2015, its debt on coming financial year 2021/2022, over Yet another area of hope for the island’s the other hand grew by 174% during that and above what it had budgeted during growth can be found in the Ministry Of What are we truly up against? same period of time. the past financial year 2020/2021. International Business And Industry, The simple reality is that Barbados is a It is a fact that can be seen in the 2020 However, for an economy that fell by $1.4 where unfortunately, the funds slow growing economy. That’s it – plain review of the island’s Economy by the billion in 2020, the question is, will it be specifically budgeted for the Barbados and simple. Central Bank of Barbados, in which the enough, and even so, has it been correctly Investment & Development Corporation From 1975 to 2019, before the COVID- economy declined by over 17%, yet loans allocated strategically? (the BIDC), some $11.2 million, have not 19 Crisis hit the economy, the island’s from international financial institutions The answer to both of those questions been increased over the previous year. economy grew by 69%. That’s fairly im- amounted to $968 million.This was a par- is, that realistically speaking, only time Last but not least, is the all important pressive enough, but when that figure of ticularly significant leap especially when itself will tell. Ministry Of Tourism And International 69% is compared to the results for 114 borrowing for 2018 and 2019 were $350 Transport with the relatively small other countries over the same period of million and $150 million respectively. The Ministries at a glance. increase in its budget of some $5.8 mil- time, (using available data from the World As in the past year, the Ministry of lion, from which once again the hope is Bank), it places the country in position The challenge with foreign reserves Education, although it has budgeted to that there will be a recovery in the sector number 108 out of 114. In other words, The country’s heavy reliance on imports spend $6 million less in 2021-2022 than which has in the past, contributed as Barbados was in the 6th place from the has also directly impacted the levels of its in 2020-2021, still will spend the lion’s much as 70% to the external part of our bottom. foreign exchange reserves. The IMF’s share of $528.9 million, allocated among, economy. In the midst of all of this, particular at- “rule of thumb” relating to foreign ex- but not restricted to the following: tention also has to be paid to how previ- change reserves is that “three months of * Tertiary Education (budgeted Final words ous global economic crises have in turn reserve cover of imports has traditionally at $175.6 million) and which includes the As stated earlier, the most important impacted Barbados’ economy, especially been seen as a minimum level for com- University of the West Indies (at $95 mil- question is: For an economy that fell by when the largest economy in the world, fort…” (Source: The Policy Development lion) and the Barbados Community $1.4 billion in 2020, and is in the midst the United States, goes through its own and Review Department, International College (budgeted for $24.9 million) being of a global economic calamity that is domestic economic troubles. The global Monetary Fund, March 23, 2000). allocated, possibly the worst ever since the Great crisis of the 2008/2009, now called the However for Barbados, for the 42 year * Basic Educational Development (with Depression of the 1930’s,will the amounts Great Recession, saw the United States period from 1975 to 2016, the island’s end $144.7 million being budgeted including allocated in the Estimates be enough economy experience its 7th worst fall of year reserves only met that suggested a Robotics programme for just over to rebuild the economy, and more since 1929, and it is that same Great IMF criteria for 13 of those 42 years. $640,000); importantly, have they been correctly Recession that Barbados is yet to recover * Secondary Education (budgeted at allocated strategically? from. So what about this year’s Estimates? $140 million) The answer to both of those questions But the world has clearly now entered Given the problems that faced by the * Special services (with a budget is, that realistically speaking, only time an entirely different paradigm. The island, combined with the serious global of $27.8 million and which includes itself will tell. current economic calamity is now being economic crisis that we are now in, the spending on Examinations in the amount (Bruce Hennis is a member of the called the COVID-19 recession, a Estimates for 2021-2022 should there- of $3.6 million) Economic Team of the People’s party recession that is perhaps the worst since fore ideally include an element which * Teacher Training (budgeted at for Democracy and Development (PdP) the Great Depression of the 1930’s. As if seeks to build a sound strategic growth $5.5 million) and a business and financial analyst) 6 • Monday March 22, 2021 Business Monday

Reset button needed for manufacturing

ACCORDING to necessary. The minister this week, saying that the and realise that the old were required, certain take Barbados back to the Minister Ronald explained that Barbados manufacturing sector in economy based on land and entities had to be productivity of prior years Toppin, going forward needed jobs as well as the past, had been able to capital, unilateral recognised because they and even beyond. there is a need to not foreign exchange whether benefit from significant preferences, tax incentives were performing, even if “It is not realistic to say just do certain things directly earned through concessions along with and the like, that era is not on the cutting edge of that we will be able to take differently in the exports or saved through incentives and technical gone. The new economy technology. a giant step now,but it is a Manufacturing Sector import substitution. Also assistance but in recent has to be based on “There is no doubt that matter of smaller steps but to earnestly press identified was a need for years was in bad shape. He technology,innovation and the economy needs to with specific targets in the reset button. an increase in the existing also made reference of the entrepreneurship. Small quickly be ramped up, so mind. We have taken the Toppin was offering capacity, new capacity to domestic export earnings business also plays a very though we recognise we step to set a target of an remarks regarding the be created and for new in the sector fluctuating important role going have to reset and put increase of at least ten per state of the Manufacturing products to be developed. since 2006, hitting its forward,” contended manufacturing on a cent in exports by 2023. Sector in Barbados and The minister was lowest mark in 2010 with Toppin. different and far more solid This is with the what the Ministry of speaking during the $950 million. However Minister footing, we still need to assumption that the International Business second session of the “We have to hit the reset Toppin acknowledged that work with existing necessary targeted and Industry believed was House of Assembly earlier button on manufacturing though significant changes entities,” he said. assistance is given to the Toppin noted that the manufacturing entities International Trade across Barbados including Centre reported in 2019 financial assistance to that Barbados had $162 operate,” he said. million in untapped export The minister outlined potential. He stated that that these small steps were the BIDC was working aimed at scaling up diligently with existing capacity, expanding the entities to get a clear number of exportable picture from them as to products, aiding what they needed to manufacturing in lowering increase capacity to ensure operating costs and looking that the ministry could see at clusters to raise the possible revenue levels business efficiency. from exports which could (AS) BIDC pushing initiatives for export THE Barbados research has allowed Investment and them to identify the Development Corporation market opportunities. (BIDC) has accelerated “We want to be able to efforts to get local match the companies with enterprises export ready. the opportunity, and the Director of Business product with the specific Support Services, Fern market. Lewis, revealed that the “It allows us then to be agency has “identified for very strategic in how we the next 18 months, a very put the intervention into robust programme that is the specific company to going to take us into see the result in exports capacity building for local in those specific markets. enterprises”. So that particular plan is She said this will enable going to allow us to match them to sell more products markets that we have locally, and export more researched, with the within the region and companies that can scale- beyond. up, along with the Lewis, who was at the products that we are going time addressing the to be enhancing. To do House of Assembly during that, the BIDC has a the debate on the product development Appropriations Bill, programme that will reported that in addition ensure that products meet to building capacity for international standards,” local businesses, BIDC Lewis indicated, further has a “Start-up acknowledging that this Programme” intended to allows BIDC to work with put emphasis on “high stakeholders to identify potential businesses” that where there may be can add jobs and create opportunity for new opportunities for saving product development. and earning foreign “Because that new exchange. product development is She also pointed to an going to throw up new export development plan, products that we can explaining,“We built out a make here, or we could tactical plan that is going export. It also will throw to allow us to be able to up opportunities for new match product with businesses that we can company with market.” start,” she added. She said that market (TL) Business Monday Monday March 22, 2021 • 7

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

March 19, 2021 Deposit Receipts There was no activity on the Regular Market. Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline Week in Review EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $21.55 $21.66 $0.11

This week, the Regular Market traded a total volume of 55,369 shares. The top two traded companies were Goddard Enterprises Limited with 51,937 and Insurance Corporation of Barbados Limited with 3,426 shares.

BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Friday March 19, 2021 INDICES LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE March 19, 2021 March 18, 2021 Local 2,454.50 2,454.38 0.12 ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $1.10 $0.30 1 10,498 Cross-list 1,140.86 1,140.86 - BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 70 - Composite 601.16 601.13 0.03 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - March 19, 2021 March 18, 2021 Local 4,933.74 4,933.50 0.24 Barbados Farms Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $0.68 $0.68 - $0.35 $0.68 1,000 25,341 Cross-list 145.67 145.67 - Composite 5,079.42 5,079.17 0.24 Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $4.10 $4.10 - $4.00 $4.10 72 1,099 MUTUAL FUND FirstCaribbean International Bank 18-Mar-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $1.80 - 14,250 March 19, 2021 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 18-Mar-21 - - - $0.16 $0.16 - - $0.16 - 5,065 CHANGE - Dev Fund 12-Mar-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.2348 0.0206 12-Mar-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2592 0.0011 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 18-Mar-21 - - - $0.57 $0.57 - $0.56 $0.57 40,000 999 12-Mar-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6714 -0.0005 -Value Fund 12-Mar-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.7027 6.7027 6.7027 0.2114 12-Mar-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.0989 0.0036 Goddard Enterprises Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $2.20 $2.20 - $2.15 $2.20 204 3,475 12-Mar-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0217 0.0017 28-Feb-21 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.6018 5.6018 5.4998 0.0320 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $1.78 $2.00 78 19,274 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 One Caribbean Media Limited 18-Mar-21 - - $2.20 $2.20 - - $2.20 - 999 12-Mar-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.78 0.05 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - -- $2.26 $2.26 ---- - 12-Mar-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.70 0.05 12-Mar-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.98 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Mar-21 - - - $31.25 $31.25 - $31.35 - 100 - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $21.55 $21.66 $0.11 $30.00 - 50 - m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly

TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD - Fixed Income Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size * = Security is Trading X-Div GOB Series B 18-Mar-21 $60.00 $60.00 $60.00 $80.00 14,752 34,828 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 - - - - *+* = Security is Suspended GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 - - - - ** = Rights Issued GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 - $70.00 - 19,617 NOTICES NEWS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS Oil giant Saudi Aramco 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. sees 2020 profits drop

BICO Limited – Notice is hereby given that the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Annual General Meeting of the shareholders of BICO Limited is scheduled to take place on April 13th, 2021 at the Company’s registered address: Harbor Industrial Park, Bridgetown, to $49 billion BB11145 at 5:00 p.m. DUBAI, United Arab be far off. Emera Incorporated - Directors have fixed March 22nd, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to Emirates – Saudi Arabia’s Despite the 44% drop in receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on May 20th, 2021. state-backed oil giant net income, Aramco said it BSE NOTICES Aramco announced Sunday would stick to its promise of COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE that its profits nearly paying quarterly dividends halved in 2020 to $49 bil- of $18.75 billion – $75 bil- Kindly note that effective February 26th, 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 Directive No. 5 issued by the lion, a big drop that came as lion a year – due to commit- Government of Barbados for the period March 1st, 2021 to March 14th, 2021. the coronavirus pandemic ments the company made roiled global energy mar- to shareholders in the run- Kindly note, however, that while our physical offices will be closed, all trading, clearing and settlement operations will remain fully kets. up to its initial public offer- operational as staff will all be working remotely during this period. While our offices are closed, we remain easily accessible via email. Saudi Arabian Oil Co. re- ing. Nearly all of the divi- For Stock Exchange related queries, kindly email us at [email protected] and for Shareholder related queries contact us at [email protected]. leased its annual financial dend money goes to the results a year after the pan- Saudi government, which We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding and trust that all and sundry remain safe during this time. demic sent the price of oil owns more than 98% of the crashing to all-time lows as company.Aramco’s policy to TRADING SUSPENSION The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section people stopped moving pay dividends significantly 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were around the world to stem higher than its 2020 free suspended effective December 10th, 2019. the spread of the virus. In cash flow of $49 billion recent weeks, however, the stands in sharp contrast to The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section price has edged up as move- other oil giants that have 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. ment restrictions ease, com- cut payouts. Seeking a cash merce increases and more infusion to pay the billions The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way people get vaccinated of dollars in the face of of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor against COVID-19. Still, dwindling revenue,Aramco Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. analysts caution that a recently has issued inter- peak in demand may still national bonds. Barbados Advocate Oil giant Saudi Aramco sees drop in profits

PAGE 7 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS Tense PAY UP! working MORE than one million dollars in can, to pay the debt they owe which is environment, rent is owed to the National extremely high,” he advised. Conservation Commission (NCC), The NCC official said that they are General Manager Ryan Als has told challenged in this COVID-19 environ- says Minister the House of Assembly. ment by not being able to collect rent, as To this end he, along with Minister of well as not being able to get business THE working environment in Barbados the Environment Adrian Forde, is urging from the hotels which have not been can be characterised as tense. So said the defaulting individuals to pay some of requesting service from the Government Colin Jordan, Minister of Labour and the arrears they have accumulated over agency. Social Partnership Relations, while re- the years. “So we have had a significant drop in sponding to a query on the matter from However, he noted that they at the revenue because of the COVID, but de- Opposition Leader, Bishop Joseph Commission are also sensitive to the sit- spite that we still understand vendors Atherley. uation, having acknowledged that these are hurting because they don’t have the Citing several reasons for this, the are trying times. luxury of tourists coming to the island NCC General Manager Ryan Als. Minister said that there is a fear of un- For the last year, Als pointed out, the and we are very sensitive to that situa- certainty by workers. “When a person is Commission has not charged a single tion,” he pointed out. tem in place in terms of how much the unsure if he will have a job tomorrow or cent in rent to those persons who operate It was revealed that this issue of ar- vendors can afford to pay a month. “But next week, he will act or sometimes the kiosks located on the beach or in open rears had been there long before the as I said these are not normal times so we react in ways that he would not ordi- spaces. COVID-19 pandemic. are trying to be our brothers and sisters’ narily do,” the Minister declared. “We encourage them, however, if they For his part, Forde said there is a sys- keeper,” Forde added. “Those workers also have the atten- dant fear of illness; there are also many of them trying to be teacher’s assistant; and there are also some of them who have dependants who may either be elderly or who have disabilities, and who we have additional responsibility for,” the Minister told the House of Assembly. He said that those matters work to- gether to help to create a very uncertain and fearful situation. As for businesses, the Minister pointed out that there is much uncer- tainty since there are persons who have worked years in a business, only to wonder if that business will disappear before their eyes. Said the Minister, “They have work- ers [who] go to sleep at night hoping that no one turns up positive, so that the business has to close to look after that situation. So they have their per- CEO of CIBC FirstCaribbean spectives and their fears.” International Bank, Ms Colette Delaney. CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank in Broad Street. All those things work together to cre- ate the tensions the country is seeing, the Minister noted. However, he said that there must be Bank hard-hit by COVID-19 pandemic some order in the industrial relations THE COVID-19 pandemic continues to ronment as well as levels of business and Delaney said. climate of Barbados if the country is to impact negatively on the operations of economic activity in the region, which has The CEO also acknowledged the become more productive. Jordan said CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank contributed to overall lower revenue in February 2021 announcement that the that part of that harmonious industrial and the markets the bank is serving. the first quarter of 2021,” Ms. Delaney transaction which would have seen GNB relations climate speaks to the fact that That’s according to Ms. Colette Delaney said. Financial Limited acquiring 66 and two workers must execute their tasks in a as she reviewed the performance of the She indicated further that the bank’s thirds of the shares in the Bank would not decent and safe working environment. bank for the first quarter of its new finan- Tier One and Total Capital ratios are now take place,as the regulatory approval “So we pay a lot of attention to occu- cial year to January 31, 2021. strong at 12.5 per cent and 14.7 per cent, has not been received. pational safety and health and we can She reported that the bank’s net income which remain in excess of the applicable Delaney noted that while that transac- call ourselves an expert ministry in the for the three months ended January 31, regulatory requirements. tion would have supported “our long Caribbean context,” according to him. 2021 was US$30.9 million. Ms. Delaney “Although we have seen some positive term growth prospects, it is only He also pointed out that other islands said this represents a 40 per cent decline signs in the first quarter, the current one way of supporting growth going for- in the region have turned to Barbados from the US$20.9 million posted at the environment and the path to recovery ward”. for advice and guidance in the area of end of January 2020. remains uncertain,” she stated. The official reported that CIBC has held occupational safety and health. All companies have been hit hard by “Similar to the last quarter, the a majority ownership stake in FCIB for a “All of this speaks to the creation of a the pandemic, creating a ripple effect on Directors have decided not to declare a number of years and that there exists an fair and just society, which is the criti- economies around the Caribbean. dividend and will continue to monitor the excellent working relationship with a cal part of the mandate of our Ministry,” “The impact from COVID-19 pandemic effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on shared focus on meeting the needs of the added Jordan, who is also the Member continues to affect the interest rate envi- economic growth throughout the region,” bank’s own clients. of Parliament for St. Peter.

Printed and Published by ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC. Fontabelle, St. Michael. Telephone 467-2000, Fax 434-2020/434-1000 The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 13

Germany considers mandatory quarantines for people returning from abroad BERLIN – Germany is considering over the objections of Chancellor Angela reversing the opening of some shops. group that the government’s earlier making all people returning from Merkel, who warned that more infectious The new proposals appear directed at decision to lift the travel warning for abroad face quarantine and variants meant the pandemic would be people considering holidaying in places, Majorca had been a “serious error”. compulsory COVID-19 tests after in- hard to control. like the Spanish island of Majorca, which The number of confirmed COVID-19 fection rates jumped above the According to the Robert Koch Institute are not considered virus risk areas and cases in Germany has increased by 13 level at which authorities say for Infectious Diseases, the number of therefore do not currently trigger a quar- 733 to 2,659,516, the Robert Koch hospitals will be overstretched. cases per 100 000 population over a week antine on returning to Germany. Institute said on Sunday. The reported The latest proposal is contained in stood at 103.9 yesterday, above the 100 Holiday destinations should be tar- death toll has risen by 99 to 74 664, draft plans, seen by Reuters, which will threshold at which intensive care units geted “since we can expect that holiday- the tally showed. be discussed by national and leaders in can no longer keep up. makers from many countries will meet in The draft plans would also tighten ob- a meeting today when they are due to Public fatigue over lockdown measures, popular holiday destinations, letting ligations on companies: those who were decide on the next round of measures to now in their fourth month, is growing COVID-19 variants spread easily,” ac- unable to offer their employees the option deal with the pandemic. but the numbers suggest state premiers cording to the draft plans. of working from home would have to At their last meeting early this month, may be forced to pull the “emergency Yesterday, Stephan Weil, premier of provide them with two rapid COVID-19 the leaders agreed a cautious opening, brake” they agreed to on March 2, Lower Saxony, told the RND newspaper tests each week. Record-breaking Saturday for UK with 873,784 Covid-19 vaccine doses given THE number of daily Covid-19 vaccine entire adult populations of Liverpool, “We are legally all obliged, both the doses administered in the UK has hit a Southampton and Oxford combined.” buyer and the purchaser.” record high for a third consecutive day. A further 33 deaths within 28 days EU Commissioner Mairead A total of 873 784 combined first and of a positive test were also recorded on McGuinness said all sides needed to “calm second doses were given on Saturday, Saturday, taking the UK’s total by down”. up from 711 157 on Friday. that measure to 126,155. “I think all of us should put our hands On Twitter, Prime Minister Boris There have also been another 5 312 up and say we were not prepared for this Johnson thanked “everyone involved”. confirmed cases of coronavirus global pandemic,” she said.“We did not do More than 27.6 million people in the in the UK. our best at the beginning but we are doing UK – more than half the adult population The new vaccine record comes after our best now to protect our citizens. – have now received at least one dose Defence Secretary Ben Wallace warned “I think we all need to, if you like, calm of a vaccine. the EU not to “build walls” around the down, look very... dispassionately at the PM Johnson, who received his first dose distribution of vaccines. situation around the raw materials for on Friday, said, “A huge thank you to Speaking to the BBC’s Andrew Marr vaccines, around where they are produced everyone involved and please come Show after a threat by the European and how we might ramp up that forward to get your jab when you are Commission to block vaccine exports to production.” invited to do so.” countries including the UK,Wallace said, Despite the success of the vaccine Sir Simon Stevens, chief executive of “The European Union stands for the rule rollout,Wallace did not rule out extending Prime Minister Boris Johnson thanked NHS England, added,“In just one day we of law... and that means we should all England’s ban on overseas holidays amid ‘everyone involved’ on Twitter. vaccinated the equivalent of the abide by our contracts. rising cases in other countries. Wallace said booking a trip abroad would be “premature”. It comes after a scientist on a govern- ment advisory body said summer Diversity review underway at Buckingham Palace holidays overseas are “extremely unlikely” because of the risk that BUCKINGHAM PALACE is reviewing cerning”, saying they would be “taken very travellers will bring coronavirus variants diversity policies across all royal house- seriously and will be addressed by the to the UK. holds. family privately”. The earliest date people in England The work is looking at improving di- The Duke of Cambridge later said the could holiday abroad is May 17. versity at Buckingham Palace, Clarence royals were “very much not a racist The Scottish and Welsh governments House and Kensington Palace. family” in response to questions about the also said international travel will not be Royal sources have stressed that the interview. possible before May 17, while Northern Palace already has policies, procedures Comments made by the Sussexes will Ireland has not set a date. and programmes in place but has not seen now form part of the diversity review, Mairead McGuinness told the BBC that the progress it would like. which was first reported by the Mail all sides needed to “calm down” over The work began before the Duke and on Sunday. Covid-19 vaccine row. Duchess of Sussex made allegations of The Mail on Sunday described the work Meanwhile, a leading epidemiologist racism within the Royal Family. as a “major drive”. It will take place in has predicted that people may need to Prince Harry and Meghan’s interview collaboration with people from minority wear face coverings and socially distance with Oprah Winfrey included claims they backgrounds, disabled people, and gay for several years before a return to had been asked how dark their son’s skin and transgender communities. normality. would be before his birth. Buckingham Palace is seeking inde- Mary Ramsay, the head of immunisa- The duchess said there had been pendent views and is looking at new ways tion at Public Health England, said basic “concerns and conversations about how of approaching all issues of diversity measures could be in place until other dark [Archie’s] skin might be when he within the royal households. countries successfully roll-out jabs. was born”. Possible changes being considered in- She said people “have got used to those Both Prince Harry and Meghan refused clude the appointment of a “diversity lower-level restrictions now, and people to say who made the comment – but chief”, but sources said they accept more can live with them, and the economy can Harry later clarified to Oprah that can be done and improvements made. still go on with those less severe it was not the Queen or the Duke of Royal sources stress that the Royal restrictions in place”. Edinburgh. Family has a strong track record on diver- “So I think certainly for a few years, at The issue of race was the one of the sity through their charity projects and least until other parts of the world are as most difficult aspects of the interview for engagements, but add the whole family well vaccinated as we are, and the num- the Royal Family. has given this project their full support. bers have come down everywhere, that is In response, Buckingham Palace de- A source said they were listening and when we may be able to go very gradually scribed those issues as particularly “con- “wanted to get this right”. HER MAJESTY: Queen Elizabeth II. back to a more normal situation. 14 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Malta’s former chief of staff charged with money laundering VALLETTA –Keith Schembri, the Schembri resigned in November 2019, former chief of staff of ex-Maltese shortly after Yorgen Fenech, a close Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, was friend of his, was charged with arraigned in court late on Saturday masterminding the murder of charged with money laundering, anti-corruption journalist Daphne fraud and corruption, police said. Caruana Galizia in October 2017. He entered a plea of not guilty, Fenech pleaded not guilty and court officials said. is awaiting trial. Prime Minister Muscat resigned two months later. Court officials said charges against Schembri on Saturday are not connected to the Caruana Galizia murder case. Lloyd Austin is the first member of President Joe Biden’s cabinet to visit Schembri, Muscat and Fenech have all Afghanistan. denied involvement in the murder and no charges related to it have been made against Schembri or Muscat. The charges against Schembri stem Afghanistan: US Defence Secretary from a magistrates’ investigation after Schembri’s company won on unannounced Kabul visit a multimillion-euro contract in 2010 to sell a printing press to Allied US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin Austin is the first member of Biden’s Newspapers, publishers of Times has made an unannounced visit to cabinet to visit Afghanistan. He flew into of Malta, the country’s biggest-selling Afghanistan, weeks before a planned Kabul on Sunday at the end of a brief newspaper. withdrawal of all remaining US troops. tour of Asia. Caruana Galizia had written about After meeting President Ashraf Ghani Speaking to journalists, Austin would alleged money laundering in a 2016 blog in Kabul, he called for a responsible end not say whether the Taliban had met post about the contract. Her family, to the war but would not say whether the their obligations under the recent deal. who were present in the courtroom deadline would be met. “It’s obvious that the level of violence re- on Saturday,welcomed the arraignment Austin said the focus should be on mains pretty high in the country,” he said, but said it was overdue. reducing high levels of violence to allow quoted by the New York Times. “Prosecuting Schembri today brings us a negotiated end to the conflict. “We’d really like to see that violence a step closer to a Malta where no one is The pullout was agreed with the come down, and I think if it does above the law,” they said in a statement. Taliban by the Trump administration last come down it can begin to set the condi- In a lengthy Facebook post on year. tions for some really fruitful diplomatic Thursday, Schembri said the accusations But there are questions over whether work.” against him, which were already the insurgents have kept their pledge to There are fears that if foreign circulating in the media, were an “estab- negotiate with the Afghan government. militaries withdraw before a lasting lishment plot” and he looked forward to New US President Joe Biden has said agreement is reached, the Taliban might Keith Schembri, Chief of Staff in the clearing his name. the May 1 deadline would be tough to return to power. office of Malta’s Prime Minister His lawyers were unavailable for meet, prompting warnings of “conse- The US says it has some 2 500 troops Joseph Muscat. further comment. quences” from the Taliban. still in Afghanistan. Miami imposes emergency curfew over spring break ‘chaos’

A STATE OF EMERGENCY has been thronged with revellers over the weekend, our spring breakers who we want to keep in place until April 12. declared in the US city of Miami over con- and many did not appear to be wearing safe”. But the emergency orders will expire on cerns large crowds gathering for spring masks or socially distancing. On Sunday, Miami Beach police told Tuesday evening unless they are ex- break pose a coronavirus risk. One city official described South Beach, CNN they had arrested at least a dozen tended by local authorities. A 20:00-06:00 curfew has been which includes the world famous Ocean people after the curfew had come into Florida continues to be a coronavirus announced in Miami Beach and will Drive, as being “overwhelmed” force. hotspot in the US.The state has recorded remain in effect for at least72 hours. by crowds on Saturday. Until the measures are lifted, police nearly two million of the country’s 29 mil- Traffic restrictions are in place during “You couldn’t see pavement and you will prevent pedestrians or vehicles lion infections since the pandemic began. the curfew, while businesses in the busy couldn’t see grass,” city manager entering the South Beach area’s main The latest data from the US Centers for South Beach area must close. Raul Aguila said. party strips. Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said He added that the emergency meas- Aguila told the Miami Herald shows Florida has recorded about 4 300 thousands of tourists had brought “chaos ures were “necessary not only to protect newspaper that he has recommended new infections a day onaverage over the and disorder” to the city. our residents but our visitors, including keeping the emergency measures past week. “It feels like a rock concert, wall-to-wall people over blocks and blocks,” Gelber told CNN. “If you’re coming here to go crazy, go somewhere else.” Spring break is a holiday period for Police: Man stabs 8 during fight at Detroit hookah bar schools and universities in the US that usually takes place in March or April. It DETROIT – A man stabbed eight people in a news release. A preliminary melee attracts thousands of students to Florida during fight at a Detroit hookah lounge investigation showed that gunshots were The eight people who were stabbed and other warm weather destinations early yesterday, leaving three fired, but that no one was struck by them, were taken to hospitals,where three were around the country. people in critical condition, authorities he said. in critical condition and the other five Officials warned tourists to “vacation said. A 34-year-old man who allegedly were treated for wounds that weren’t responsibly or be arrested” prior to the The fight started at around 4:40 am stabbed the eight people was taken into considered life-threatening, Donakowski holiday period, and a county-wide inside the Tiaga Hookah Lounge before custody, police said.The suspect, who had said. midnight coronavirus curfew was spilling out into the parking lot, not been charged as of early yesterday Authorities said it was unclear what already in place due to the pandemic. police Officer Dan Donakowski said afternoon, was also injured during the led to the stabbings. But the Miami Beach area was The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 15

Saudi Arabia, UAE expand Sassou expected COVID-19 vaccination drive to extend 36-year rule as CR votes DUBAI – Saudi Arabia and COVID-19 vaccinations, a statement neighbouring United Arab published on state media late BRAZZAVILLE – Congo Republic voted Emirates yesterday said health on Saturday said. The move, it said, for the next president yesterday,with the authorities have expanded comes after nearly 73% of elderly incumbent Denis Sassou Nguesso widely COVID-19 vaccinations to all Emiratis, residents and those expected to extend his 36-year rule citizens and residents aged 16 with chronic diseases have been despite an economic crisis in the Central and above as Gulf states vaccinated. African oil producer. race to bring the virus under The country is providing The president’s main rival, former gov- control. four types of vaccine free of ernment minister Guy-Brice Parfait Riyadh said the health ministry charge. Kolelas, was in hospital with COVID-19 will start inoculating its population The UAE’s daily COVID-19 cases and was possibly being evacuated to aged 16 and above with Pfizer vaccines, surged to nearly 4 000 in late January France yesterday, Kolelas’ campaign di- while its citizens and residents aged from about 600 in September rector told Radio France Internationale. of 18 and above will have Astrazeneca after Dubai opened its doors to Even so, the government appeared to be shots. visitors during the peak winter tourism leaving nothing to chance. There was an It did not provide further details. season. internet blackout across the country Denis Sassou Nguesso. The government said on Saturday The rate has fallen after yesterday, according to internet monitor around three million vaccines had been authorities tightened restrictions NetBlocks. observers were not invited to monitor the distributed across 500 vaccination at public venues but stopped short of Sassou, a 77-year old former para- election, and the interior ministry refused centres. imposing new lockdowns. Some trooper, rose to power in 1979. He lost to allow the Catholic Church’s 1 100 The UAE, the region’s commercial restrictions have since been eased Congo’s first multi-party elections in 1992 observers to take part. and tourism hub and a global travel but mask-wearing in public but reclaimed the presidency in 1997 Observers are optimistic, however,that centre, has set a blistering pace for its and social distancing are still after a civil war. He later changed the the vote will be peaceful – in contrast to vaccine rollout to keep its economy required. constitution to extend term limits. the last election in 2016 that was marred open for business. It ranks second The UAE, which does not give a “I am very satisfied because across the by sporadic violence. globally behind Israel for doses breakdown for each of its seven country,I have seen people mobilised and Results are expected to be published per 100 people. emirates, registered 2 013 new ready to participate in the electoral within four days of voting. If none of the The Emirati health ministry infections on Saturday to take process,” Sassou said after voting, adding seven candidates secures more than 50% urged its citizens and residents its total tally to 438 638 with 1 433 that he wished Kolelas a swift recovery. of votes, a second round will take place aged 16 and over to register for deaths. United Nations and European Union 15 days later. Philippines says 220 Chinese boats have encroached in South China Sea

MANILA – The Philippines urged China boats violating our maritime rights and “The (Armed Forces of the Philippines) The vessels’ presence in the area raises yesterday to recall more than 200 Chinese encroaching into our sovereign territory,” will not renege from our commitment to concern about overfishing and the boats it said had been spotted at a reef in Defence Minister Delfin Lorenzana said. protect and defend our maritime interest destruction of the marine environment, as the South China Sea, saying the pres- The Philippine military had conducted within the bounds of the law,” Arevalo well as risks to safe navigation, a ence of the vessels violated its maritime air and maritime patrols in the South said. Philippine cross-government task force rights as it claims ownership of the area. China Sea to further validate the report, Foreign minister Teodoro Locsin, asked said late on Saturday. Authorities said the Philippines coast spokesman Marine Major General whether he would file a diplomatic protest An international tribunal invalidated guard had reported that about 220 Edgard Arevalo said, but did not say over the boats, told a journalist on China’s claim to 90% of the South China vessels, believed to be manned by Chinese when. Twitter: “Only if the generals tell me. In Sea in 2016, but Beijing does not recog- maritime militia personnel, were seen The military had submitted its find- my watch, foreign policy is the fist in the nise the ruling. China has built islands moored at the Whitsun Reef, which ings to other government agencies, and iron glove of the armed forces.” in the disputed waters in recent years, Manila calls the Julian Felipe Reef, they would be used as basis for taking “ap- The vessels are fishing boats believed to putting air strips on some of them. on March 7. propriate actions not limited to filing be manned by Chinese military-trained Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, the “We call on the Chinese to stop this diplomatic protests”, he said in a state- personnel, according to Philippines Philippines and Brunei all claim parts incursion and immediately recall these ment, without elaborating. security officials. of the sea. Strong earthquake hits part of Japan devastated by tsunami 10 years ago A STRONG earthquake has hit areas of also found no irregularities. Japan devastated by the tsunami ten A spokesman said there were also no ir- years ago, that saw thousands lose their regularities at the company’s nearby lives. Daini facility. The quake hit the coast about 250 miles Several of the towns in Miyagi prefec- (400km) north of Tokyo on Saturday some ture, including Onagawa and Ishinomaki, time after 6pm local time (9am UK) and were hit badly by the 2011 tsunami and had a magnitude of 7, the USGS said. magnitude 9.0 quake and have taken Japan’s Meteorological Agency said the years to recover. quake was 7.2 in magnitude. Miyagi Prefecture is said to have been There were warnings it had generated suffering power outages in some areas, a one metre-high tsunami and people and at least one of the country’s high- have been told not to go near the shore. speed bullet trains has been halted. Officials there said there were no imme- Shizue Onodera told NHK from the diate reports of major damage. shop where she works in the city of It came as Japan announced it was ban- Ishinomaki: “It was a really bad, long ning foreign visitors from the Olympics shaking from side-to-side. It was even due to the risks of COVID-19. longer than the quake last month, but at The Onagawa nuclear plant, just eight least the building here is alright.” miles (12km) from the epicentre, was “Lots of bottles smashed on the floor,” Minamisanriku, which is about 15 miles from the latest quake, was cleaned up halted but the country’s nuclear regulator she said. and is recovering from 2011 disaster. said it has not found any irregularities. Footage from inside the bureau of NHK Tokyo Electric Power said the company in Sendai – about 40miles (65km) from lives in the 2011 disaster. tremor, was offering tours of the former also checked the Fukushima Dai-Ichi the epicentre – showed a plaque sus- Just a week ago, on the day of the ten- disaster zone. power station that was wrecked by the pended from the ceiling shaking for about year anniversary of the quake, it was re- AJapanese Meteorological Agency massive March 2011 quake, which led to 30 seconds. ported that a hotel in Minamisanriku, spokesperson said that Saturday’s quake nuclear meltdowns and the subsequent The quake could be felt in Tokyo. one of the worst affected towns in 2011 was considered an aftershock of the 2011 evacuation of the surrounding area. It An estimated 18 000 people lost their and just 15 miles (25km) from the latest quake. 16 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Facebook building a Twitter to establish legal entity version of Instagram in Turkey, comply with law ISTANBUL – Twitter has announced it track record of clamping down on free will establish a legal entity in Turkey in speech. order to continue operating in the country, “We remain committed to protecting for children under 13 which passed a controversial social media the voices and data of people in Turkey law last year. who use Twitter. We will continue to be FACEBOOK is considering launch- In a statement Friday,the social media transparent about how we handle ing a version of its popular photo company said it had reviewed the requests from government and law social media platform, Instagram, amended internet law and made the enforcement,” Twitter said. for children under the age of 13. decision to comply with, it but Turkey’s legal demands for content re- BuzzFeed News first reported Facebook promised to continue “defending open, moval make up 31 percent of all requests announced in an internal company post public conversation and ensuring globally,according to Twitter.The country that the company would begin building a our service is available to people has made some 45 800 demands and version of Instagram for people under the everywhere.” Twitter says it complied with about a age of 13 years to allow them to “safely” Turkey slapped advertising bans on third. use Instagram for the first time. Twitter, Periscope and Pinterest in The government insists the legislation Currently the company does not allow January.Those bans were the next step in is needed to combat cybercrime and to people who are under this age to create an a series of measures to force social media protect the rights of Turkish social media account on the platform. companies to maintain legal representa- users. A spokesperson for Facebook told the tives in Turkey to manage content According to the Freedom of Expression Guardian the company was exploring a complaints. Association, as of October 2020, more parent-controlled version of Instagram, Companies with more than 1 million than 450 000 domains, 120 000 links similar to the Messenger Kids app that is users that refuse to designate an official and 42 000 tweets were blocked for kids between six and 12. representative are subjected to fines, in Turkey. “Increasingly kids are asking their par- Facebook currently doesn’t allow followed by advertising bans. The next ents if they can join apps that help them users under the age of 13 to create an penalty would be bandwidth reductions keep up with their friends. Right now Instagram account. that would make their platforms too slow there aren’t many options for parents, so to use. we’re working on building additional that by using machine learning in Human rights and media freedom products … that are suitable for kids, combination with the registration age to groups say the law amounts to censor- managed by parents,” the spokesperson determine people’s ages on the platform. ship and violates the rights to privacy said. The company also announced plans to and access to information. “We’re exploring bringing a parent-con- roll out new safety features, including Under the law, local representatives of trolled experience to Instagram to help preventing adults from messaging people social media companies are responsible kids keep up with their friends, discover under the age of 18 who do not follow for answering individual requests to take new hobbies and interests, and more.” them, safety notices for teens when mes- down content violating privacy and In a blog post earlier this week, which saged by an adult sending a large amount personal rights within 48 hours or to did not mention the proposed new of friend requests or messages to people provide grounds for rejection. The com- Instagram service, the company noted under 18, and make it more difficult for pany would be held liable for damages if that although people were asked to enter adults to find and follow teens using the the content is not removed or blocked Twitter announced on Friday it will es- their age when signing up for Instagram, search function in Instagram. within 24 hours. tablish a legal entity in Turkey in order there was nothing to prevent people from Teens will also be encouraged to put The law also requires social media data to continue operating in the country, lying about it at registration. their profiles on private at the point to be stored in Turkey,raising concerns in which passed a controversial social Facebook said it would overcome of registration. a country where the government has a media law last year. California desert to get America’s first 3D-printed neighbourhood

THE desert landscape of California’s option to pay extra for amenities such as Coachella Valley will soon be home to the cabanas, hot tubs, fire pits and outdoor first US neighborhood comprised entirely showers. Prices will start at $595,000 for of 3D-printed houses. a base 3BR/2BA model and go up to Through a partnership between two $950 000 for a two-home configuration California companies – Palari, a sustain- with upgrades. able real estate development group, and Rancho Mirage is not the first place to Mighty Buildings, a construction technol- see 3D-printed homes in recent years. In ogy company – a five acre parcel of land 2019 a non-profit in Mexico announced in Rancho Mirage will be transformed the production of 3D-printed homes for into a planned community of 15 low-income families. Meanwhile, 3D-printed, eco-friendly homes claiming 3D-printed homes are scheduled to be to be the first of its kind. installed in Austin,Texas, later this year. “This will be the first on-the-ground The rise of 3D-printed homes comes as actualisation of our vision for the future California’s housing crisis continues to of housing,” said Alexey Dubov, the rage.The state needs between 1.8 million co-founder and chief operating officer of and 3.5 million new housing units by 2025 Mighty Buildings. to address the shortage and accommo- In the large warehouse of its Oakland date projected population growth. In headquarters, Mighty Buildings creates February, Mighty Buildings secured homes using massive 3D printers the size $40 million in series B funding. of small garages. The material used by Ruben said that while Mighty Mighty Buildings hardens almost Plans for the five-acre 3D printed neighbourhood in Rancho Mirage, California. Buildings had spoken with local govern- immediately, allowing a roof, layers of The homes will consist of multiple bedrooms, bathrooms and a pool, designed ments about the potential to 3D print insulation, and exterior features such as in a mid-century modern style. homes for vulnerable populations, the an overhang to be added all in one company was largely focused on targeting process. Up to 80% of the construction co-founder and chief sustainability officer The Rancho Mirage homes will each what he calls “the missing middle”. can be automated, Mighty Buildings of Mighty, during a recent tour of the feature mid-century modern architecture “The missing middle is too often left claims, with 95% fewer labour hours and headquarters. Often the printers are set and consist of a three-bedroom, two-bath out of the conversation,” he said. “These 10 times less waste than conventional to build a house overnight, while the primary residence of 1,450 square feet, are your teachers, your firefighters, construction. employees are asleep. along with a secondary residence on the people who serve a community, but be- The company’s printers have the “We are actually limited more by road property of two bedrooms and one bath. cause of how insane the housing market capacity to make a 350-sq-ft home in less transport of the buildings than the Each home’s 10 000-sq-ft lot will have is in California, they have never had the than 24 hours, said Sam Ruben, the actual ability to print,” Ruben said. a swimming pool in the back yard and the opportunity to buy a home.” The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 17

Millions sign up to anti-food- waste apps THERE is such a thing as a free lunch, it turns out, as long as you don’t mind too much what it is. Tamara Wilson (name changed) found hers a few streets away from her west London home – and as well as picking up some unwanted bread and fruit that would otherwise be thrown away, she made a new friend. Wilson is one of 3.4 million people around the world using an app designed to encourage people to give away rather than throw away surplus food. “It’s such About a third of all food produced globally is wasted, according to the UN. Photograph: Paul Weston/Alamy a small thing, but it makes me feel good and my neighbour feel good. And a lot of Karma, which has 1.4 million users, and measures on reducing heat-trapping restaurants, supermarkets, hotels and small acts can end up making a big Hubbub, which has created a network of gases. independent food retailers to create difference,” she said. more than 100 “community fridges” in In the UK, also, about a third of all food “magic bags” priced at about a third of the The last few years have seen an the UK in the past five years – a figure it is thrown away – half of it in people’s retail price, said Loucaides.“The customer explosion in creative ways to tackle hopes to double by the end of this year. homes. “Each family throws away an picks up whatever is left over at the end food waste by linking supermarkets, About a third of all food produced average of £730 of food each year,” said of the day.We don’t pick and choose.” cafes, restaurants and individual house- globally is wasted, according to the UN’s Clarke. Despite the success of the app, it was holds to local communities. Food and Agriculture Organisation Olio, she said, was an attempt to rectify hard to make a dent in the huge scale of Olio, the app used by Wilson, saw a (FAO). Apart from the potential to this on a small, local scale. “The app food waste, he added.“Even though we’re fivefold increase in listings during 2020, eliminate hunger around the world, such connects people with others who have doing well, we’ve hardly scratched and the signs are that this “stratospheric waste makes a devastating contribution surplus food but don’t have anyone to give the surface. It’s very challenging.” growth” is continuing into 2021, said to the global climate crisis. it to because so many people are The UK’s first food waste action week Tessa Clarke, its CEO and co-founder. Almost 1.4 billion hectares of land – disconnected from their communities.” took place earlier this month. Television Too Good To Go, where consumers pay close to 30% of the world’s agricultural Users of Olio post images of surplus chef Nadiya Hussain, who fronted the a heavily discounted price for food and land – is dedicated to producing food that food that others in the neighbourhood campaign, said: “Wasting food is a major meals that would otherwise be discarded, is never eaten; and the carbon footprint of might want. Olio also has a network of contributor to climate change.And it isn’t has seen 4.5 million downloads of its app food wastage makes it the third emitter 24 000 volunteers who collect surplus food just the leftovers on our plate to consider in the UK, and 34 million globally since of CO2 after the US and China, according from local supermarkets and stores for but the many resources that go into it launched in 2016 – “and the numbers to the FAO. Reducing food waste is one of app users to claim.“It feels good to share. producing our food, like water and land. are growing”, said Paschalis Loucaides, the most effective ways of tackling the It’s an example of positivity in a pretty If we each make small changes, we’d UK managing director. global climate crisis, says Project grim world,” said Clarke. dramatically reduce the amount of food Other apps tackling food waste include Drawdown, which ranks the impact of Too Good To Go partners with cafes, that ends up in the bin.” Summers could last half the year by 2100 Our summers are already about 20% longer than they used to be, and if the climate crisis continues unabated then northern hemisphere summers could cover nearly half of the year by 2100, making them more than twice as long as they were in the 1950s. And unlike their counterparts of the 1950s, future summers will be more extreme, with heatwaves and wildfires more likely. Researchers used historical climate data to measure how much the seasons have changed already. They defined summer as the onset of temperatures in the hottest 25% for that time period and winter as the onset of the coldest 25% of temperatures. Their results, published in Geophysical Research Letters, show that the average northern hemisphere summer has grown from 78 to 95 days between 1952 and 2011, while winter has shrunk from 76 to 73 days.Spring and autumn have contracted A man walks in the dried-out lake of Jato near the Sicilian village of Partinico. too. Using climate change models, they hemisphere summers lasting an average just 31 days. The Mediterranean region far-reaching impacts on agriculture, were able to show that even bigger of 166 days by 2100, squeezing out all and the Tibetan plateau are projected to human health and the environment changes are to come, with northern the other seasons and shrinking winter to experience the greatest changes, but will be felt everywhere. 18 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Lana Del Rey shifts gaze in ‘Chemtrails’ release DECAY and decadence coexist in the world created by Lana Del Rey in “Chemtrails Over The Country Club”. At first listen, her intimate follow-up to critically-acclaimed “Norman (Expletive) Rockwell” may seem less urgent. Rather than deconstructing the American myth, Del Rey shifts her gaze inward. But in the quiet, she disassembles a different pain, one felt in the unforgiving glow of the limelight. Whispering opener “White Dress” immediately sets “Chemtrails Over The Country Club” apart from “Norman (Expletive) Rockwell,” her breathiness almost jarring. She works with the same producer, Jack Antonoff, whose credits are also seen on Taylor Swift’s 2020 albums “evermore” and “folklore.” There are echoes of Swift’s production on Del Rey’s new album with songs like the This cover image released by Interscope Records and Polydor Records gentle “Yosemite” leaning in the shows ‘Chemtrails Over the Country Club’ by Lana Del Rey. folk direction. Del Rey has perfected the art of sings of Joni Mitchell covers the title, Del Rey’s seventh album creating album capsules. Each before launching into her own explores the yin and yang of record emanates its own aesthetic cover of Mitchell’s “For Free.” fame, fortune and creativity. On with songs cross-referencing one “Yosemite,” too, seems to call to the surface are glittering images: another within the album. Del her closing cover. “We did it for jewels in a country club pool and Rey gives cohesion to albums in a fun/ We did it for free,” she bars that stay open “just for us.” way that is unmatched by most croons. “We did it for the right Ringing underneath is a other artists. reasons.” melancholy emptiness perforated In “Dance Till We Die,” she Paralleling the juxtaposition in by isolation and desire. Bridge The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 19 SPORTS Jason Holder captures five wickets to lead West Indies on first day

JASON HOLDER may have struggling, Brathwaite turned been relieved of the cap- to Kyle Mayers as an extra taincy, but he is still very bowler. much an asset to the team Holder’s skill and patience as he finished off Sri Lanka after tea was the key as he with a five-wicket haul to picked up the prize wicket of hand the West Indies the ad- Lahiru Thirimanne. vantage after the first day Roach was also impressive on of the Test match in Antigua the day and should have picked yesterday. up the day’s first wicket, but Holder, the current leading the ball burst through all-rounder in the Test format, Jermaine Blackwood’s hands at was hitting good areas all day, point. Despite this, Roach fin- which earned him 5/27 from ished with 3/47 as he had the 17.4 overs as the West Indies ball moving in both directions. bowled out Sri Lanka for 169 The amazing spell from runs. Holder came after Tea as he It took an extra over for him bowled an unbroken spell until to capture his eighth fifth the end. It was here that he wicket as in the over before he took four wickets to break the thought he had trapped the Sri Lanka defense as he cap- batsman lbw and the umpire tured Niroshan Dickwella, West Indies Jason Holder (right) picked up his 8th five-wicket haul to lead the bowling attack had given out the Ari Lanka Lahiru Thirimanne, Suranga for the home side. batsman, but a review showed Lakmal and Lasith the ball going over leg stump. Embuldeniya. In his very next over he once Thirimanne topscored for Sri again struck the batsman on Lanka with 70 runs before his pad. Once again the bats- Holder bowled by thanks to an man, who was Sri Lanka’s final inside edge. wicket, called for a review and Rahkeem Cornwall took the this time the ball was clipping first wicket of the day and leg stump. Brathwaite effected a brilliant The West Indies bowling unit run out with a direct hit as the was outstanding all day despite West Indies kept taking wick- some wayward bowling by ets in every session. Shannon Gabriel, who strug- This left West Indies with 18 gled to find his rhythm. overs to negotiate on the day, Newly appointed West Indies which John Campbell and captain Kraigg Brathwaite was Brathwaite safely saw out. brilliant with his field place- The second day begins at 10 ment and rotation of bowlers. a.m. today with the West Indies Recognizing Gabriel was on 13 without loss. (CG) Williams withdraws from Miami Open

SERENA WILLIAMs has pulled “Miami is a special tourna- out of this week’s Miami Open ment for me because it’s my after having oral surgery. home and I am sad I won’t be The 23-time Grand Slam sin- able to see the incredible fans gles champion was knocked out this year.” of the Australian Open semi-fi- The men’s draw has already nals by Naomi Osaka in been depleted by the with- January. drawals of world number one “I am disappointed to with- Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, draw,” said 39-year-old Williams, Rafael Nadal and world number who has won the Miami Open four Dominic Thiem. eight times. It gets under way on Monday. Kemar Roach and Kraigg Brathwaite celebrating the fall of yet another Sri Lankan wicket. 20 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE 2 lots 32,760 sq ft, $230,000 Arsenal come from

Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy 14,876 sq ft. $110,000 3-0 down to rescue

Bushy Park, St. Philip point in thriller 17,000 sq ft $170,000

TEL: 247-4469 Inchcape, St. Philip with West Ham Cel: 253-6319 4355 sq ft $ 96,000 ARSENAL came from in fifth, while Arsenal 828-4800 three goals down to res- move above Aston Villa Email: Belle, St. George cue a point in a stun- into ninth. caribbeanpropertiesltd 4 acres $400,000 ning game against Arsenal were second @gmail.com London rivals West best in the first half and Haggatt Hall, St. Michael Ham in the Premier looked almost certain PROPERTIES 6336 sq ft $126,000 League. to lose further ground in Under Offer The Hammers raced the race for European Kirtons, St Philip into a three-goal lead at places after a frantic 3 bedroom plus Cane Garden, St. Thomas London Stadium through opening. 2 bedroom apt 4,790 sq ft 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft Jesse Lingard, Jarrod At 3-0 down, they looked $685,000 Private entrance. Bowen and Tomas Soucek, a beaten side but From $187,681 who touched in a Michail Lacazette inspired Mikel Amity Lodge, Ch Ch REAL ESTATE Antonio header. Arteta’s side to a point, hit- 3 bedroom plus Ragged Point, St. Philip NOTICES The visitors gave them- ting a volley which took a Mount Standfast, St James 1 bedroom apt 8,267 sq ft $166,000 selves hope when an deflection off Soucek for Two properties on 6,646 sq ft $650,000 BARBADOS Alexandre Lacazette effort Arsenal’s opener. 22,714 sq ft. Rolling Hills, St. George went in off Soucek for an Lacazette saw his Asking $1,200,000 IN THE SUPREME COURT Gibbons, Ch Ch 12,000 sq ft own goal just before half- dinked attempt cleared off OF JUDICATURE 3 bedroom plus $310,000 (negotiable) time. the line by Issa Diop sec- Black Rock, St. Michael 2 bedroom apt HIGH COURT West Ham defender onds after the restart as Warehouse/Storage 9,835 sq ft Ocean City, St. Philip Craig Dawson turned in the Gunners dominated in 4000 sf space 23,861 sq ft Arsenal full-back Calum the second period. $675,000 (reduced) 6150 sq ft $123,000 IN THE MATTER OF KENNETH $900,000 (reduced) CLARKE also known as KENNETH Chambers’ low cross for After Dawson turned in another own goal in the Chambers’ cross to further Breezy Hill, St Philip Fortesque, St Philip BEDFORD CLARKE DECEASED, Foul Bay, St. Philip 61st minute. cut the deficit, the France 3 bedroom, 2 bath Agricultural Land late of Fairview, Christ Church, Approved for condos, And Lacazette com- striker rose highest to level reduced to $298,000 494,500 sq ft $1,100,000 Barbados 39,242 sq ft $1,600,000. pleted the comeback with a the game late on. thumping header from A defeat would have Black Rock, St Michael Silver Sands, TAKE NOTICE Dover, Christ Church Nicolas Pepe’s cross, before opened up a 10-point gap 3 bedroom, 1 bath Christ Church both sides had late chances between the two sides and Hotel 18 rooms fully PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given 6732 sq ft $360,000 7,129 sq ft $160,000 to win the game. arguably end Arsenal’s operational $2,950,000 neg that an application is being made under offer The result leaves the hopes of qualifying for a Enterprise, Christ Church Bushy Park, St. Philip for the following Grant of Letters of Hammers two points be- European competition 3 bedroom, 2 bath 24,000 sq ft $190,000 Administration namely:- Dalkeith, Christ Church hind fourth-placed Chelsea through a top-six finish. 5062 sq ft 17,371 sq ft approved for $390,000 (reduced) Apes Hill, St. James LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION shops and offices 31,000 sq ft upward to the Estate of KENNETH $495,000 The Belle, St George Large lots at $15 per sq ft CLARKE also known as KENNETH Chelsea made to battle Plantation style House BEDFORD CLARKE late of Roebuck Street, Standing on 4 acres Mount Wilton, St. Thomas Fairview, Christ Church, Barbados Bridgetown $1.1M 15,500 sq ft and 22,066 sq ft who died on the 14th day of July against Sheff United Shopping Mall/Office space $300,000 and $220,000 $8,100,000 negotiable 2011 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, EIGHT-time winners wide following John Frere Pilgrim, St. Michael, Barbados by Chelsea moved into the Lundstram’s right-wing Christ Church Union, St. Philip FA Cup semi-finals with cross, before home goal- Batts Rock, St Michael NICHOLA JANE K. SIMPSON nee 3 bedroom, 2 baths with 7560 sq ft a hard-fought home keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga Guest House, 12,078 sq ft CLARKE and EMMA ADEREMI two bedroom apartment. $150,000 win against Sheffield saved from Oliver $2,850,000 negotiable OLORUNBUNMI SHITTU the 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 legal personal representatives to United. McBurnie. Thorpes, St. James The Blues, beaten final- With Sheffield United Cane Garden, St Thomas FELICIA KETIRAH CLARKE also Hanson Heights, St George 11,376 sq ft with structure ists last season, went pushing for a goal to take 3.6 acres approved known as FLECIA KETURAH 8321 sq ft $595,000 $235,000 CLARKE also known as FELICIA ahead in fortunate cir- it into extra time, Chelsea Roadfront cumstances as Ben broke in injury time and KETURAH SHITTU also known as $1,650,000 negotiable Chilwell’s low cross was Hakim Ziyech scored their Ealing Grove, Cottage, St George FELICIA SHITTU who was a sister Christ Church 5000 sq ft steered into his own net second with a low strike to Fitts Village, St James of the Deceased. 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths $110,000 (negotiable) by Blades midfielder take them into the last Guest House, 4 Suites 9320 sq ft $565,000 Oliver Norwood. four for the fourth time in 6,135 sq ft An application shall be submitted Morningside, St Philip Christian Pulisic was five seasons. $750,000 negotiable to the Supreme Court fourteen (14) LOTS FOR SALE 4567 sq ft $133,000 twice denied by away goal- The semi-finals will days from the date of Notice in keeper Aaron Ramsdale take place at Wembley Mason Hill Street The City the Official Gazette and from the Boarded Hall, Jupiter Gardens, St Peter and Callum Hudson-Odoi over the weekend of 17-18 26,500 sq ft with buildings date of the second notice of shot over as the hosts April and the draw will be Christ Church 7312 sq ft $4,000,000 negotiable advertisement. looked to finish off the shown live on BBC One - 10,429 sq ft $157,000 $133,000 (negotiable) game. during half-time of All enquiries to Dated this 22nd day March of 2021 David McGoldrick Sunday’s quarter-final be- Westbury Road, St Michael Bagatelle, St. Thomas (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 wasted a glorious chance tween Leicester City and 2,520 sq ft $45,360 62000 sq ft into 2 lots or (246) 247 4469 NAVISHA DEBIDEEN-WORRELL to equalise as he sent a Manchester United (kick- $520,000 each, or Attorney-at-Law for the Applicants close-range diving header off 17:00 GMT). Goodland Gardens, $1M for both Christ Church 9,605 sq ft $145,000 Marley Vale, St Philip 21,780 sq ft $275,000 Leicester outclass Man Utd to reach FA Cup semis Nursery Road, St Philip LEICESTER City reached will face Southampton at against off-colour United Luke Shaw failing to pro- 9,266 sq ft $139,000 Sandford, St Philip their first FA Cup semi- Wembley with Chelsea as manager Ole Gunnar duce the desired result. 16,356 sq ft $300,000 final for 39 years with a and Manchester City Solskjaer once again tasted The Foxes’ hero was in- Lashley Road, St Philip fully deserved win over meeting in the other semi- defeat in the latter stages form striker Kelechi 5,839 sq ft, $150,000 Manchester United at the final. of a cup competition, his Iheanacho, who struck COMMERCIAL King Power Stadium. Leicester were the more ploy of resting the likes of twice and now has nine Salters, St George Brendan Rodgers’ side vibrant and positive team Bruno Fernandes and goals in nine games. The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 • 21

Raptors’ Zverev beats head coach Tsitsipas to win fined $50K Mexican Open in by NBA TORONTO Raptors head coach Nick Nurse Acapulco thriller has been fined $50,000 for throwing his face- MEXICO CITY – World last five games to seal the mask behind the scorer’s number seven set. table and toward the Alexander Zverev re- Zverev broke for 5-4 in fans, as well as directing covered from an uncer- an equally tight second set profanity toward game tain start to beat and served for the title but officials, the NBA an- Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4 Tsitsipas saved a champi- nounced yesterday. 7-6 (3) in a thrilling onship point and put the Nurse’s actions took Mexican Open final in contest back on serve place after the conclusion Acapulco on Saturday when his German oppo- of the Raptors’ 115-112 and land his 14th ATP nent double-faulted. loss to the Utah Jazz on title. The set tiebreak was Friday. The 23-year-old German again studded with Toronto was whistled lost the final of the hard- lengthy rallies and Zverev for 12 more fouls than court tournament to Nick prevailed 7-3 on his third Utah, and that disparity Kyrgios in 2019 and championship point when resulted in a 41-14 edge quickly went 4-1 down to he pounced on a Tsitsipas in free throws for the the Greek top seed on drop shot and pounded the Jazz. Sunday, at one point com- ball past the Greek into “(We) outplayed them pletely missing the ball the back of the court. all over the place. It’s when attempting an over- “This week has been one Germany’s Alexander Zverev celebrates with the trophy after winning the a hard one to win,” head smash. of the most fun I have had Mexican Open on Saturday. Nurse said after the Tsitsipas was unable to in recent months, the tour- game. maintain the level of ten- nament showed that the chances, I need to close it tiebreak, I’m happy with ceded that the better “It just didn’t seem like nis he displayed in the public can attend sporting out against these top play- how it went.” player had won in the end. they were going to let us first five games, however, events,” Zverev said to the ers because normally they Tsitsipas, who has “I did everything I could, win tonight.” and second seed Zverev cheers of the crowd after won’t give you a second reached semi-finals at the but Alex was superior,” the The reeling Raptors worked his way back into receiving the trophy. chance. I thought I played Australian Open and 22-year-old world number (17-24) have lost seven in the contest, reeling off the “When I have my extremely well in the Rotterdam this year, con- five said. a row. 22 • Monday March 22, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Archer misses ODI series, start of IPL with elbow injury JOFRA Archer will miss with an elbow injury since mak- England’s one-day series ing his international debut in against India and the start of 2019, missing three Tests of next month’s Indian Pre- England’s tour of South Africa in mier League because of his early 2020 and the T20 series ongoing elbow problem. that followed. The fast bowler will return Last month he played in the home for further investigation of first and third Tests against the issue, which the England India, but was ruled out of the and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) second and fourth. says “deteriorated” during the He played a full part in the five-match T20 series. subsequent T20 series, but Lancashire spinner Matt speaking after Saturday’s defeat Parkinson is in the squad hav- in the fifth T20 in Ahmedabad ing been a T20 reserve. captain Eoin Morgan said World champions England Archer’s injury had “got worse” face India in a three-match se- and “needs attention”. ries, all held in Pune. In response to questions over The first match starts at 08:00 his desire to play for England, GMT on Tuesday. Archer said earlier this month Archer, 25, is due to play for he will “do everything” in his the Rajasthan Royals in the power to play a full part Indian Premier League, which in runs from 9 April to 30 May. the T20 World Cup and Ashes. “Jofra’s elbow issue has dete- Silverwood said it was a “joint riorated over the course of the Jofra Archer (right) missed two of England’s recent Tests in India, but played a full part in the decision” for Archer to have Twenty20 International series five-match Twenty20 series. treatment now and “both par- and made it increasingly chal- ties have put England first”. lenging for him to maintain per- we get it cleared up, see the spe- rested. Archer’s ongoing elbow He added: “Jofra needs to get formance levels,” the ECB said cialist and make sure we put All-rounder Chris Woakes, struggles this right, he needs some time to in a statement. everything in place for Jofra to who left the India tour before Archer is expected to play a key do that, so we’ve made space to England head coach Chris have a long, successful interna- the fourth Test as part of role across all formats make sure that we give him the Silverwood said: “It’s obviously tional career for England in all England’s rest and rotation pol- for England in 2021 – a year best chance of being successful disappointing for Jofra and for formats.” icy, has also been rested. which includes five home for England. us. He will have every resource England Test captain Joe Batsman Dawid Malan and Tests against India, a T20 “He wants to be at the World we can give him so we can get to Root, who was not part of the fast bowlers Jake Ball and Chris World Cup and the Ashes in Cup and the Ashes, it wasn’t a the bottom of what is going on. T20 squad and returned home Jordan have been named as re- Australia. difficult decision by either side. “The important thing here is after the Test series, has been serves. He has regularly struggled It was a sensible decision. The Barbados Advocate Monday March 22, 2021 •23

P R O HOROSCOPES S A ARIES: It will be tempting to have another go in your N attempts to get an older relative to agree to plans and ideas D you have for later in the year. They aren’t ready yet to consider change and it would be better to let sleeping dogs C lie. It won’t make sense to complicate matters when life is O running smoothly. N S TAURUS: You are starting to really like someone you’ve recently met. They are making a big impression on you and you will admit to your friends that you are just a little bit interested in getting to know them better. In all honesty you’re desperate to have this person in your life.

GEMINI: You aren’t likely to pass on an exciting opportunity. If you are offered a chance to do something new Z and exciting you won’t hesitate about your answer. This I may mean having to postpone other arrangements but you T know your priorities and currently your aim is to add variety S to your days.

CANCER: Someone is about to make you an offer you won’t want to refuse. Dark clouds that have been hovering over your world for a few days are starting to roll back. News that cheers you will be the first sign your life is going to get easier. Financial trends are starting to look brighter.

LEO: Follow your heart and you will find true happiness. R A casual relationship could deepen into something more E serious. This is what you have both been hoping for. Trust X your instincts. You are making good choices and your judgement is spot on. Best success will come through acting M on your own decisions. O R VIRGO: You should not feel guilty about regretting some G changes you recently made. If it hasn’t worked out, it isn’t A your fault. You took a chance and you knew it would be 50:50 N whether or not this would be successful. Now you know things aren’t working you can move on and put this episode behind you. Psychic Readings Instantly Do you have a problem, a question or an issue that is troubling you? Why not speak to a live psychic now, confidentially and in the comfort of your own home? Psychic Readings Now! P LIBRA: Even people who know you well are finding it hard H to understand you. When normally you are the one who keeps A group activities harmonious, you can’t seem to keep your N thoughts to yourself today. Since some of these are critical T and negative, tension will be the inevitable result. O M SCORPIO: High levels of sensitivity make it possible for you to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. You understand what a friend or loved one is going through and your support will make a difference to how they are able to cope. You instinctively sense what your other half is thinking and feeling. Relationships are improving.

SAGITTARIUS: You can’t live in regret. When someone M tells you that you can’t turn the clocks back they aren’t trying A to upset or annoy you. They are stating a fact. What you can R do is move forward with a more positive attitude. You’re Y dwelling too much on what you can’t have instead of looking around for new possibilities. W O CAPRICORN: You feel cheerful and as if you have R something good to look forward to. The source is beside the T point. What’s important is you have found something that H makes you happy and gives your spirits a tremendous boost. The smile on your face will in turn enhance your social and romantic relationships.

AQUARIUS:You will be left in no doubt about a loved one’s M intentions. They have made a decision and you know from O old that they aren’t likely to change their mind. You aren’t T keen on what they are planning. There’s nothing much you H can do about it other than either be happy they’re doing E something they want to do or you could always withdraw R your support. G PISCES: You don’t mind going out of your way to help a O friend get over some difficulties. You aren’t expecting O gratitude or rewards yet your helpfulness will be repaid S E threefold. It takes courage to let someone know your feelings and you are ready now to reveal yours. Jason Holder captures five wickets to lead West Indies on first day Page 19

Monday March 22, 2021 HOPE IS NOT LOST

PRESIDENT of the Diabetes and tings have affected you. Some of these Hypertension Association of President of the Diabetes and Hypertension changes have been negative but perhaps Barbados (DHAB), Trudy Griffith is some have been positive. It has high- reminding the members of the or- Association gives advice to members lighted areas of excellence and areas ganisation that despite the current which require some work. In many re- situation, hope is not lost. such as consuming healthy foods and care. She also acknowledged the mental spects, it has caused disruption to how er- In a recent email to DHAB members, drinks, engaging in regular physical ac- effect the pandemic has had and reas- rands are completed and business is con- Griffith gave some updates on the char- tivity,taking prescribed medications, and sured the members that eventually this ducted," said Griffith. ity.She explained that as the year unfolds consulting with medical personnel if the crisis will end and mentioned the positive She ended by announcing the post- the DHAB will be introducing new pro- need arises. developments during COVID-19. ponement of the Biennial General grammes and projects to meet members' "Like all of us, you have watched Meeting on 20 March 2021, noting that additional needs during the pandemic. Business interrupted Barbados and the world battling the coro- with the current environment, the meet- In her missive, Griffith said that, at The DHAB President remarked on how navirus pandemic. You look back at the ing will be held when the country is more present, members must pay greater at- the pandemic has affected the organisa- past year and can recognise the many settled and the risks of COVID-19 are tention to their personal health habits tion as it relates to service hours and ways in which the changes in many set- reduced. Breath of life for businesses

IT will be another busy week in Barbados as the third ease in restrictions com- mences this week in the phased reopen- ing of the island and businesses breathe another sigh of relief. The roads of Barbados and stores in Bridgetown have been packed with cars and pedestrians as retail businesses re- opened their doors last week. It has been a tough road travelled, not only by the bigger business owners but also vendors across the island as the need for the busi- ness sectors to be allowed to conduct busi- ness again was indeed necessary. Pharmacies, supermarkets, hardware stores, salons and barber shops, restau- rants, computer stores and others have all been granted permission by the gov- ernment to reopen. Unfortunately,gyms, cinemas, bars, night clubs, dojos, and pleasure craft operations are still not among those allowed, with the risk of COVID-19 being spread through the close contact being deemed too high at this time. The health protocols however, remain the same and it is imperative that businesses adhere to the stipulated safety guidelines not just for staff but also patrons. There is also the fact that the protocols by the government says that people are not to be on the road unless conducting essential business or going to and from any of the businesses which have been al- lowed to reopen. Liming, social gather- ings and picnics are also not allowed SHOPPING on Page 6 This customer made sure that she was well protected as she shopped..

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