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Monday May 3, 2021 $1 VAT Inclusive PARENT ADVOCATE ISSUES CAUTION

“TODAY for me, tomorrow Concerned Parents of Barbados Moore recalled that the CXC port which was produced by an spect to CXCs, grading method- for you.” was a panellist in a discussion exam structure and grading international body,there was no ology, communications, lack of That’s the warning coming on Brass Tacks Sunday yester- methodology was changed last public ventilation of the recom- consultation with stakeholders, from Paula Anne-Moore who day with student advocate year because of the pandemic. mendations. Moore further i.e. students, teachers, and par- cautioned that the unresolved Khaleel Kothdiwala and head When the results came back in lamented that the report as it ents. And it seems as though a “fiasco” of 2020 relating to re- of the Barbados Secondary September last year, she said was presented, seemed to focus lot of those recommendations sults from the Caribbean Teachers’ Union Mary Redman there was a huge regional outcry on what was alleged to be inap- have not been implemented. Examinations Council (CXC) as they dissected the challenges with thousands of students ex- propriate grading of the School And here we are in 2021.And al- could spill over into 2021 if not which they note could spell trou- pressing distress at their re- Based Assessments by teachers. though the immediate crisis is fully ventilated. ble for students in the short and sults. “But there were also findings not with respect to the 2021 Coordinator of the Group of long term. She noted that out of the re- in terms of deficiencies with re- EXAMS on Page 3 Ross honoured for 29 years of service

LAST Friday the Queen Elizabeth Hospital honoured Agnes Ross, one of its stalwarts of the Obstetrics Department, who was retiring from her pas- sion after more than 29 years of service. The emotional and inspiring ceremony was one which should give any aspiring nurses or cur- rent nurses the motivation to continue to follow the path to- wards their dreams and face challenges head on, as the re- ward was a lifetime of memo- ries. Ross encouraged all nurses to give of their best at all times, as the lives of the nation de- pended on it. “I entered this noble profes- sion at an early age, because I was very passionate about the sick and suffering, even my pets. I rose to the rank of ward sister, very early after graduating as a Registered Nurse Midwife in Guyana,” said Ross. Ross moved to Barbados and was attached to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital with over 19 years of experience and was at- tached to the Obstetrics Department where she re- mained for more than 29 years. “My memories of midwifery will always be in my heart, be- cause pregnancy and birth is a unique time in the life of a fam- ily. Educating the pregnant mothers, their families, the stu- dents and my colleagues were very important to obtain and maintain a successful standard of care,” she said. (AS) QEH Nursing Officer Loraine Trebble (right) makes a presentation to retiree, Agnes Ross. 2 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Students showcase their skills By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste three members, went from Trinidad, one from transformation needed these type of coding and difference. So as a sponsor, through a detailed presen- Grenada and one from within the Caribbean. programming skill sets to Sagicor is very proud of the SIX teams of students tation of their work and it Jamaica. “From a business per- actually be part of the so- discipline, effort and com- gathered virtually on was well-received. Paul Inniss, from spective, businesses in the lution. mitment that the students Saturday to showcase Executive Director of the Sagicor Life Inc. expressed Caribbean and “What is also important, have placed to complete projects they worked CSF, Professor Cardinal that he was proud to see Governments have prob- I find, is that this program any workshop.” on for the last 13 weeks. Warde explained that the the programme continue lems and challenges and also allows you to develop Inniss congratulated the Students of the workshop, which ran for to provide a great platform we are looking for solu- the necessary, what I call CSF and its instructors for Caribbean Science 13 weeks, met on Saturday for people to develop skills tions,” he said. team skills, or skill set, be- the excellent work they Foundation (CSF) from 9am to 12pm. in areas that are needed “And we are starting to cause in order to actually were doing and for ensur- Computer Coding He revealed that most of to make a difference in the think that this is a good work as a team to build a ing there was a forum for Workshop gathered to the students were from lives of persons in the opportunity for those who solution or service, you students interested in showcase their skills. Each Barbados, but this year Caribbean but also sup- have these skills and are have to work together.And STEM to develop their team, which consisted of they also had one student port and facilitate the interested in developing this makes a significant skills in the region. New term of Spanish lessons online started CLOSE to one hundred called that back in enthusiastic students, January the Minister in from all levels, have just the Primer Minister’s began a new term of Office with Responsibility Spanish Language and for Culture and National Venezuela Culture les- Development, John King, sons held online by the thanked the Venezuelan Venezuelan Institute for Embassy for partnering Culture and Cooperation, with the National Library IVCC, in alliance with the Service to provide National Library Service. Barbadians the opportu- “The students have nity to engage in the shown great interest, not learning of a new lan- just in Spanish, as a for- guage. eign language, but also in Sanchez Cordero added Venezuelan culture, gas- that “this alliance helps tronomy and music,” said in bringing both of our Joseph Inniss, an instruc- countries closer together; tor at the IVCC. thus, deepening our ties This term, which ex- of friendship and solidar- tends until July, will em- ity.” phasize on the Marcelle Maughan, Bicentennial celebration who has been attending of the Battle of Carabobo, lessons at the IVCC, said: in which Venezuela sealed “I am very happy because its independence in 1821. the workshops on conver- In addition, a virtual exhi- sational Spanish have bition of the San Juan (St. started again. I really John) festivities will be of- missed those lessons.” fered, as part of the Afro- Last week, on 23 April, Venezuelan Heritage the official opening of the Month, which is cele- second term was brated throughout May. launched with a Literary In January of this year, Workshop in tribute to the IVCC partnered with Venezuelan writer Teresa the National Library de la Parra, who passed Service to offer these away the same day as the courses to Barbadians as International Day of the a means to wider their Spanish Language and horizons and gain a better the passing away of both cultural knowledge of William Shakespeare and Venezuela. Miguel de Cervantes “Our experience with Saavedra. the National Library In more than 40 years Service of Barbados has of existence, the IVCC has been outstanding. We taught Spanish Language have worked together and Venezuelan Culture very smoothly since the courses to over 10,000 beginning of this year and Barbadians, who in turn expect to continue doing have used these skills in so,” said the Venezuelan strategic sectors of the Charge D’Affaires,Alvaro Barbadian economy,such Sanchez Cordero, who re- as tourism and trade. The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 3

Time for transformation Barbados Port Inc commemorates 60 years of the Port of Bridgetown

THE Barbados Port Inc Minister Humphrey ad- “The world has never stepping up to serve as a is celebrating 60 years dressed those in the con- been crazier than it is now, voice for the people. of the Port of gregation along with those but I also feel that this is “What must we do now, Bridgetown, at it com- listening virtually and ac- the time to do certain regarding rhythm, tim- menced with a church knowledged that it was things and the ing? What must we do now service at the truly necessary for God to Bridgetown Port must do to help serve the people? Sanctuary be part of any plan and certain things,” he said. At the end of the day, that Empowerment Centre also noting that according “Minister Cummins and is what the port is sup- yesterday morning. to Psalms, unless the Lord Chairman Olde, they posed to do, that is what The Port of Bridgetown is part of the building worked on the idea that all institutions are sup- is an award-winning, full process, those that labour, the port must become the posed to do, serve people,” service, international labour in vain and for most innovative and green said the minister. trade seaport, managed by those who watch the city, maritime hub in the Referencing transfor- Barbados Port Inc. It was unless God watches the world.” mation and how a church opened by Sir Grantley city, they watch in vain. The minister went on to seeks to help with the Adams on May 6th, 1961. The minister also asked explain that the signifi- transformation of dark- Minister Kirk that the church and its cance of this was that ness into light, Humphrey Humphrey, Minister of members keep the Barbados wanted to lead said that the Bridgetown Maritime Affairs and the Barbados Port Inc in their and this was an ideal time Port, metaphorically,must Blue Economy, was the prayers and thoughts. to do so. He added that Sir move from darkness into featured speaker at the The minister said that Grantley Adams sought to light. He highlighted that service, and was accompa- he believes that the estab- provide an opportunity for a lot was happening in the nied by MP Toni Moore, lishment of the Port of the people to import and port and said that in the General Secretary of the Bridgetown in 1961, then export and that now was past the port was moving Barbados Workers Union; the Deep Water Harbour, the time to remain true to 75,000 tonnes per year, Minister of Tourism and was one of vision in an un- that, a port for all. but had now moved to International Transport, certain time by a focused Humphrey stated that over 1 million tonnes per Minister Kirk Humphrey, Minister of Maritime Senator Lisa Cummins; Sir Grantley Adams, the serving the people year. Affairs and the Blue Economy. along with the executive then Prime Minister of the through port services was “We are now talking members of the Barbados West Indies Federation. a key segment of the vi- about digitalising all of the coming more efficient, it is Humphrey. Port Inc, Chairman Peter Equally or even more so sion, and requested that a records, we are talking not only about numbers or He also announced that Odle; Deputy Chairman now, the minister stated member of the union be about digitising all of the being able to say we have people could now voice Denis Cadogan; David that it was once again an part of the board of the processes and just getting improved in the doing their complaints via Jean Marie, the Managing opportune time for trans- Port, which is how MP it right, making it easier business trade index or email, complaints@barba- Director and CEO along formation of the Toni Moore and Sir Roy on people. People must feel trade across borders,” ex- dosport.com or call 434- with other directors. Bridgetown Port. Trotman came into play, the fact that the port is be- plained Minister 6101. (AS) Price of some petroleum Advocate a ‘voice products to increase for the voiceless’ BARBADIAN consumers prices will decrease by $149.19; the 25-lb cylin- will be paying more for two and three cents, re- der will cost $42.40; the EXAMS from Page 1 crisis, the focus, the ethics, that were higher than some petroleum products, spectively, with diesel 22-lb cylinder will be re- the integrity of the educa- they expected, obviously effective midnight, being sold at $2.94 per tailed at $37.47, and the exams, if those challenges tion authority and exam they’re going to keep Sunday May 2. litre, and kerosene at 20-lb cylinder at $34.07. are not addressed, that body was how can we ad- quiet.And if on top of that, The retail price of gaso- $1.20 per litre. The price adjustment is were identified in 2020, just the status quo to re- they think that it’s the line will increase by two Meanwhile, the ad- in keeping with the there are ramifications duce the pressure and “bougie” children that are cents, moving from $3.77 justed price of Liquefied landed price of petroleum with regard to 2021.” stress on the children the ones that were af- per litre to $3.79 per litre. Petroleum Gas (LPG) products on the interna- Moore further lamented recognising that this is a fected. You know,for some Diesel and kerosene 100-lb cylinder will be tional market. the fact that CXC appears once in a lifetime situa- of us, we don’t care until to be wedded to “high- tion. our own corns are stakes in-person exams” “That was done all over mashed.” within the context of a the world. It seems as She maintained that the pandemic, where in some though the Caribbean is advocates in the pursuit FLB Clinic on costing cases, infection rates are unique that we see noth- of natural justice for dis- still a challenge and coun- ing wrong with subjecting advantaged children tries have gone back into the children to the emo- throughout Barbados and lockdown. tional and other physical throughout the region and pricing of products “It seems as though and mental stress of high simply “want to be a voice there is a fundamental stakes exams and poten- for the voiceless”. BUSINESS owners and Daniel, who will discuss ter at challenge within our cul- tially exposing them to in- “And the public needs to those looking to start their the topic: Costing and https://bit.ly/3eDksDd. ture, that we see no prob- fection in in-person understand they may not own enterprises will get Pricing of Products. Other clinics will take lem in submitting chil- exams.” have been affected today. the opportunity to learn The session, which be- place throughout the dren to the increased The parent advocate But this deficiency in CXC more about setting the gins at 6:00 p.m. on Zoom, month and the public may stress of struggling to pre- also acknowledged that technical grading last price for goods and how is aimed at addressing the follow on Facebook and pare for high stakes the 2020 CXC challenge year, which they have this can determine their challenges many business Instagram at FLB.246. exams, whether they are affected a minority of stu- never had the courtesy... profits, at the Financial owners encounter when Further information on 11-plus whether it CSEC dents. to admit that they were Literacy Bureau’s (FLB) costing and pricing their the clinics may be obtained or CAPE within a pan- “We understand that. wrong. They were callous, virtual clinic, next week. products. During the ses- by calling the Ministry at demic context. And that is hard for the they were intransigent, The facilitator for the sion, the facilitator will re- 535-7700, or by emailing “And when you look at public to grasp. Because they were dismissive and clinic, to be held on veal the “secret” to deter- [email protected]. what obtained interna- obviously we’re a democ- cruel,” she lamented, say- Tuesday, May 4, will be mining the real product They may also log on to tionally in the UK and racy, we go by numbers. So ing that the regional exam Principal Consultant with costs and setting a com- www.commerce.gov.bb. Europe, in Ontario, in if it’s the majority that are body needs assistance Strategic Consulting and petitive selling price. The clinics will run until New York City,where they happy with their grades, if with managing crisis com- Advisory Services, Colin Participants may regis- Thursday, May 20. recognise that there was a the majority got grades munications. (JH) 4• Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Straughn: Digital payments system critical THERE is an urgent recovery and to ensure credit unions were soon to associated with the econ- persons are able to take has been a challenge for need for an up-to-date that it was as inclusive as commence testing with omy was that it was im- care of themselves and businesses to have access and efficient digital possible. Even within the November as the slated portant for business, how- their families. Therefore to credit. He highlighted ecosystem in Barbados, COVID-19 environment, time for real time. ever small or large, to be the earliest adoption of entrepreneurs such as co- and for businesses and Straughn said that it “What this would mean able to conduct business these kinds of interven- conut vendors, landscape individuals to embrace would help the island to be is that Barbadians and even if the establishment tions would allow us to be technicians on the micro its use when completed. able to maintain and sus- business people do busi- is physically closed. That able to balance both objec- level, up to the macro busi- Ryan Straughn, tain business. ness and therefore we en- meant that the adoption of tives very clearly,” said the ness levels who needed a Minister in Finance in the Unfortunately,according courage people, where pos- digital payments and the minister. mechanism which made Ministry of Finance, to Straughn, the process sible at the private level, accompanying software el- He also urged entities to doing business easier. Economic Affairs and was a tedious one and it communities, entities that ements would provide the engage their financial in- “We felt that with the in- Investment offered this took time for the auto- we do business with, to ex- opportunity for most busi- stitutions, sooner rather troduction of digital pay- sentiment as he was mated clearing house to be plore the early adoption of nesses to continue to sup- than later to ascertain ments and the develop- speaking during the upgraded to manage the these new technologies to ply goods and services what was the best option ment of various applica- Barbados International changes along with time Barbados to ensure that is even during a lockdown for their businesses and for tions and e-wallets, that Business Association for financial institutions to as effective as possible,” environment individuals to gain knowl- once business is trans- (BIBA), BIBA Talks webi- get the required systems outlined Straughn. “We have stressed that, edge of how they can con- acted on such a platform nar on e-Readiness: Digital up and running. He noted The minister in the min- yes, the Government of duct their business online, that persons may choose, Payments Webinar.He ex- however that a number of istry of finance explained Barbados would do what- to pay fees or taxes online there would be a digital plained that the provision commercial banks were in that the state of emer- ever we can and extend to the Government or pur- representation of their of the new National the process of final testing gency lockdowns initiated whatever resources we chase goods or services record, which allows them Payment Systems initia- before moving to real time by the government had have to facilitate the pub- from local businesses. to become easier assessed tive was critical in the ac- transactions on the auto- taught many lessons. lic health response, but He also acknowledged for credit,” said Straughn. celeration of the economic mated clearing house and However one of the ones equally it is important that that over the years, there (AS) Caribbean Airlines partners with Days for Girls International

AS part of its Corporate than two million women Dionne Ligoure, Social Responsibility pro- and girls in over 144 coun- Caribbean Airlines’ Head gram Caribbean Airlines tries. Allison Grant, DFG Corporate transported feminine hy- Liaison in Guyana, ex- Communications stated: giene kits from Toronto, pressed gratitude to “Caribbean Airlines is Canada to Guyana, for Caribbean Airlines for pleased to support this distribution to women joining hands with the or- important initiative with and girls living in rural ganisation on this initia- Days for Girls communities. tive.“I think it’s a wonder- International. The airline The initiative was un- ful gesture by Caribbean is committed to being an dertaken in partnership airlines to transport these active and responsible with international NGO, kits and for helping to Corporate Citizen and the Days For Girls (DFG).The make the delivery of these pillars of our corporate so- well-known NGO, works kits possible.” cial responsibility pro- to increase access to men- She continued: “We are gram which include: strual care, providing cost in a pandemic and many Education, Community effective sustainable sup- women and girls in the empowerment and sus- plies and products. Each low income communities tainability and Medical hygiene kit contains of Guyana are at this time Travel Support, high- uniquely designed wash- really in need of these hy- lights the causes which able, reusable DFG men- giene kits and they are ex- we support. In keeping strual Pads, individually tremely thankful for these with our community em- hand-sewn and designed supplies. We would have powerment theme, we to last up to three years. handed the kits out were happy to transport Caribbean Airlines Sales Executive in Guyana Dion Inniss (in back row) was Since launching opera- sooner, but the global pan- these kits on behalf of on hand to assist with the distribution of DFG hygiene kits to women at- tions in 2008, DFG has demic hindered our Days for Girls tending clinic at the Vivienne Health Centre in Linden Guyana on Tuesday impacted the lives of more plans”. International.” April 27, 2021. DFG Liaison Allison Grant is also in back row (third right). Economist highlights concerns, some positives

PICK UP from tivity. enue side to assist creat- said also of concern is tionship with the interna- that this will provide some Back Page Stuart further stated ing a scenario where the being faced with greater tional financial institu- savings, but cautioned the remarks as he said that with the cost of run- primary balance target foreign debt when the fate tions will engulf that it would not be that part of the continued ning government still can be met to satisfy IMF of the tourism industry, Barbados, where it has to enough to impact the expenditure of the high and recurrent, conditions on Barbados' the main foreign earner, be constantly borrowing major cuts needed to bal- Barbados Economic Government had to seek fiscal account. The posi- remains unsure, while at to repay international ance the economy. Recovery and budget support by borrow- tive highlight of these the same time oil prices debt once these factors “Major expenses such as Transformation (BERT) ing $421.8M between loans are that they are are rising, export earnings start to take their toll. One wages and salaries, grants programme will be needed January and March 2021 being used as domestic fi- are weak and avenues to large loan payment starts to state-owned enter- to right size the loss of rev- from the Central Bank to nancing and channelled earn foreign exchange are in October 2021, and as prises, delivery of some enue associated with lock- reduce the gap between directly into the economy,” limited. The Director of we enter 2022, interest goods and services con- downs; the shrinking in- revenue and expenses. he explained. Business Development, payments will become a tinue to eat large amounts come streams of average “This budget support The economist went on Finance and Investment greater burden on govern- of government’s money, Barbadians; the closure of arrangement is in the to say that of concern is also expressed concern ment finances up until therefore as the reform businesses; the unemploy- form of foreign-based an absence of earned rev- about the depletion of the 2035,” he warned. under the BERT pro- ment crisis and loans from multilaterals enue, particularly in an sinking fund. He indicated On a more positive note, grammes moves forward, Government’s inability to such as IADB and IMF, environment where ex- that it had gone from Stuart acknowledged that expect a focus on reduc- increase taxation at this being loaned to the penses continue to be at $598.8M in 2017 to the lockdowns did achieve tion in these areas during point. He mentioned too Central Bank [and] the unsustainable levels, and $14.9M in 2021, which is a some good, as the year. With public ser- about the impact of the in- Bank loans to the more support from inter- worry, as the payment of Government had the op- vant pension reform due crease in minimum wage, Government to balance its national financial banks foreign loans will become portunity to push the na- in June 2021 [and] the re- suggesting that it has had fiscal account. The will be required this year due soon. tional payment system form of the NIS also due, a negative effect on em- $421.8M was used to to support the high level of “It is inevitable that a and deliver more of their further dislocations will ployment and business ac- boost the books on the rev- expenses.Additionally,he perpetual borrowing rela- services online. He noted occur,” he indicated. The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 5

US embassy and Barbadian journalists Businesses celebrate World Press Freedom Day with need to Investigative Journalism Workshop focus on IN advance of May 3, World (BARJAM) Keith Goddard, who to face the challenges of an in- “Information as a Public Good” Press Freedom Day, US participated in the program, dustry under pressure. It is serves as a call to recognize in- Embassy Bridgetown part- said, “The training provided heart-warming to have support- formation as a basis right and to human nered with Barbados jour- very useful insights into the ap- ers such as the US Embassy all people, no matter where they nalists and the Caribbean proaches of handling investiga- Barbados, who want to ensure live. Investigative Journalism tive journalism from highly re- training and development of The realities of the pandemic resource Network (CIJN) to celebrate spected persons in their fields.” media practitioners is accessi- have changed the way journal- the importance of a free Kiran Maharaj, President of the ble.” ists operate in the field, and the press as an indispensable Media Institute of the Countries committed to up- United States commends media strategies component of any free soci- Caribbean, the parent organiza- holding a free press like the workers for their commitment ety. tion of the CIJN, and facilitator United States and Barbados, to transparency and the truth in By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste To mark the occasion, the of the workshop, thanked the will mark World Press Freedom the face of mis- and disinforma- Embassy hosted a three-day vir- U.S. Embassy for its support and Day 2021. The media plays an tion from malign state and non NOW is the time for businesses tual investigative journalism highlighted the need for more essential role in a democracy state actors, in these unprece- to be people centred. workshop for over fifty training. Commenting on the and, as observed in recent re- dented times. We stand with all As he spoke during the official Caribbean journalists. Recently- success of the April 27-29 pro- porting on the volcanic erup- members of the media and launch of the publication “The elected President of the gram, Ms. Maharaj said, “The tions in St. Vincent, in saving honor you every day of the year, New Normal – A Post – COVID Barbados Association of sessions showed the enthusiasm lives. This year’s World Press but especially on World Press Primer for Business”, Author of Journalists and Media Workers and commitment of journalists Freedom Day theme Freedom Day. the publication and assistant Secretary General, Trade and Economic Integration, CARI- COM Secretariat, Joseph Cox Challenges to safety outlined that it was imperative that some attention be placed on human resource research strate- gies. and health in the He highlighted that in the pub- lication one chapter focused on the importance of crafting mod- workplace explored ernised HR strategies that were geared towards optimising, staffing, age, mid levels and a SINCE the COVID-19 pan- Health Systems (OSH)". This blend of new leadership styles demic emerged, it has led gov- initiative examines risk pre- that focused on future staff re- ernments, employers, workers vention and management re- quirements to optimise compet- and the general population to lating to the pandemic, and itiveness. face unprecedented challenges analyses other health and Additionally, he noted that and subsequently has had safety risks associated with the there were dedicated chapters many effects on the world of changing work arrangements on the business of the state and work. arising from virus control emerging industries in the re- This was the general consen- measures. It outlines the criti- gion. sus as the ILO Office for Latin cal roles played during the pan- “The chapter on the business America and the Caribbean demic by occupational safety of the state discusses the re- hosted a special virtual conver- and health regulatory frame- quired intervention framework sation on Wednesday, to ad- works and institutions, compli- by the state to ensure that it re- dress the challenges to safety ance mechanisms, health and Colombian journalist and newscaster Claudia Palacios as mains in a purely facilitator role, and health in the workplace advisory services, data, re- she moderated the online event. and allows the private sector to which have been posed by the search and training. assume the mantle of the engine COVID-19 crisis. On World Day for Safety and of growth,” he said. The meeting, called “World Health at Work, the ILO made “The chapter on the emerging Day for Health and Safety at it clear that countries need to industries in the region provides Work 2021 – SafeDay 2021: put in place sound and resilient a snapshot of the emerging in- Investing is Preventing", occupational safety and health dustries which are likely to have helped to launch a series of ac- (OSH) systems that would a medium or long term impact on tivities aimed at promoting minimize the risks for every- the Caribbean. There’s also in- safe and risk-free work for all one in the world of work, in the clusion of a bonus media guide. within the framework of a event of future health emer- And further, each chapter of the Regional Initiative for Safety gencies. This will require in- book is complete with a list of and Health at Work, at the vestment in OSH infrastruc- additional reading materials heart of the post-pandemic re- ture and integrating it into with the attendance electronic sponse. The event which took overall national crisis emer- links to access some. place via Zoom, was moderated gency preparedness and re- “Collectively, this represents a by Colombian journalist and sponse plans, so that workers’ snapshot of what is contained in newscaster Claudia Palacios. safety and health is protected, the book, the new normal, of The meeting shared the and the business continuity of course COVID primer for busi- views of representatives from enterprises is supported. ness, which is now available for governments, employers’ and “There could be no clearer download free of charge at the workers’ organizations, as well demonstration of the impor- new normal page on the CARI- as local public figures, occupa- tance of a strong, resilient, oc- COM website.The publication is tional safety and health spe- cupational safety and health available as a compressed PDF cialists, and ILO experts. This environment. Recovery and file, and there is also an audio regional event meanwhile prevention will require better version of the available for down- served as part of a global initia- national policies, institutional load. The EPUB version is de- tive developed by the ILO, en- and regulatory frameworks, layed but will be available in due titled “Anticipating Crises, properly integrated into crisis course. We do hope that persons Preparing and Responding - response frameworks,” ILO will be encouraged to read this Investing Today in Resilient Director-General, Guy Ryder publication and that it would be Occupational Safety and maintained. (RSM) ILO Director-General, Guy Ryder. shared as widely as possible.” 6 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Rotaract encourages ‘Love thy neighbour’

ON April 9, 2021, fol- lowing significant seismic activity, the La Soufrière volcano in the neighbouring islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines experienced the first of a continued se- ries of explosive erup- tions. In response to the ad- verse effects of these eruptions, the Rotaract Club of Barbados decided to take a three-pronged approach to relief efforts which included a clothing and water drive, donation of sanitary products and child care items and a cash donation, between April 12, 2021 and April 24, 2021. Over this pe- President Danielle Donawa (left) and Secretary Shaunté Carter (right) of Secretary Shaunté Carter of Rotaract Club of riod, through contribu- Rotaract Club of Barbados with some of the donated clothing and water Barbados with the 5 litre bottles of water donated tions from its members donated by Rotaract Club of Barbados West. by Rotaract Club of Barbados. and partners in service, the Club raised over Joined by fellow Rotaract water, sanitation and hy- Barbados each donated Lady Box Project’s “Pink phase the Rotaract Club Bds$5,000 which was di- Clubs, Rotaract Club of giene, the Rotaract Club an 800-gallon water tank Box Project”. The of Barbados made a mon- vided between each of the UWI Cave Hill and of Barbados donated 104 through the joint Rotary Rotaract Club of etary donation in the sum three phases. Rotaract Club of 5-Litre bottles and 408 Clubs of St. Vincent. Barbados donated six of Bds$2,000 to the The first phase of the Barbados West, 460 items 500ml bottles of water. The second phase of re- cases of sanitary napkins, Rotary District 7030 relief efforts was focused were donated through The Rotaract Club of lief efforts revolved 11 dozen tampons, six Disaster Relief Fund on the donation of cloth- the clothing drive for Barbados West also do- around Rotary cases of diapers (assorted through its sponsor club, ing and clean water adults and children. nated a case of 500ml bot- International area of sizes), four cases of baby Rotary Club of Barbados. through a partnership Additionally, in further- tled water. Further, the focus, saving mothers wipes, three cases of anti- We are grateful to have with Vincentians and ance of the Rotary Rotaract Club of South and children, and in- bacterial wipes and four been able to assist our other partners of Oxygen International area of Barbados and the volved a contribution to cases of plasters. neighbours in St. Vincent Mas Band in Barbados. focus of providing clean Rotaract Club of Pink Parliament and The Finally, in its third & the Grenadines.

President Dana Walcott of Rotaract Club of South Barbados (left) and Senator Dr. Crystal Haynes (left) accepting the donation of women and chil- Immediate Past President Kareem French of Rotaract Club of Barbados with dren’s items from Rotaract Club of Barbados represented by President the two 800-Gallon water tanks donated by their Clubs to the Rotary Clubs Danielle Donawa (second left), President-Elect Scott Chandler (third left) of St. Vincent. and Secretary Shaunté Carter (right). The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 7

Partnership between Chinese firms, European partners gets closer during COVID-19: NIO

BERLIN – The partner- against the epidemic,” ship between Chinese Zhang companies and European continued. partners has become even NIO announced last year closer against the backdrop that it would enter of COVID-19, said Zhang the European market in Hui, Vice President of the second half of this year. NIO Europe. At the moment, the The domestic production Chinese carmaker,with its and sales of the Chinese office in the German city electric carmaker have of Munich, provides only been on the rise for design and R&D services. months, which also means According to Zhang, once that there are more orders NIO begins its car sales in for German suppliers Europe, it will expand its even during the epidemic, investment in Europe and Zhang said in a recent need more partners to form Tourists pose for photos at the former residence of late Chinese military leader Zhu De in Kunming, south- interview with Xinhua. after-sales service. west China's Yunnan Province, May 1, 2021. Saturday marked the first day of China’s five-day May Day holi- In order to keep the “Therefore, it is foresee- day. supply chain stable, NIO able that there is big room and its partners are deep- for more cooperation with ening cooperation and local partners, as NIO communicating in ad- starts its sales business,” China estimates over 56m May 1 trips vance, so that the effect of he said. IT is estimated that period last year, this amounted to 36 million Ltd. the epidemic would be NIO also hopes to estab- Chinese travellers holiday figure surged by trips. May Day, also known as reduced to the lowest level. lish its footing in Europe made 56.37 million 111.5 percent, the Ministry Railway trips will likely International Workers’ “A friend in need is a and build up its brand to domestic trips on of Transport said. rise by 6.1 percent from Day, is observed on May 1 friend indeed. Mutual better serve the European May 1, the start of the The ministry estimated the 2019 level to reach in China. As the holiday understanding, mutual customers “by making five-day May Day that airlines handled 18.3 million on May 1, lasts from Saturday to next support and precise pre- use of our Chinese digital holiday, official data nearly 1.89 million passen- which might set a single- Wednesday this year,many views are contributing to experience, connectivity showed Saturday. ger trips on the same day. day record, said the China choose to spend the holiday NIO’s smooth operation experience and service Compared with the same The flow of highway traffic State Railway Group Co., travelling. and its local partners’ fight experience.” Mixing vaccine shots ‘acceptable’ though efficacy remains under research RECIPIENTS can accept a Chinese health official said in some places. vaccine of Anhui Zhifei second COVID-19 shot on Thursday, vowing to In response to the Longcom Biologic Pharm- developed using the same increase supply to ensure difficulty in receiving acy. technique but by a success of the injection of the second shots reported According to media different producer under the second shot amid by some people, Wang reports, in some places peo- special conditions, a reports of vaccine shortage Bin, an official from ple had been given a second China’s National Health shot of a different producer Commission (NHC), said at when there was a tempo- a press conference on rary shortage, the Global Thursday that supply will Times learned. be enhanced to meet Mixing two different China toughens demand and priority would producers’ vaccines is be given to people waiting acceptable when there is a for their second shot. vaccine shortage. We also regulation on The second shot should hope the method, under an be administered within ideal condition, could take 3-8 weeks after the first advantages of different medical insurance injection. On some special shots to create a more effec- conditions, people can tive one, Zhuang Shilihe, a A medical worker inoculates a recipient with the CHINA has imposed responsible for healthcare accept a second shot from a Guangzhou-based vaccines second dose of COVID-19 vaccine at a temporary harsher penalties for security, designated different producer but expert, told the Global vaccination site in Haidian District of Beijing, capital medical insurance fund medical institutions and developed using the same Times on Thursday. of China. fraud in a new regulation the people under the med- technique, Wang noted. However,due to a lack of coming into force on ical insurance system, said Nearly 250 million shots studies, Zhuang suggests among global authorities Kong are also conducting Saturday. Shi Zihai, deputy director had been administered in recipients should try to ac- and producers is also a clinical trial, mixing As China’s first regula- of the National Healthcare China as of Wednesday, cept shots from the same accelerating to get solid Pfizer mRNA vaccines tion on the supervision Security Administration. according to the NHC, sur- producer even though the data as soon as possible. with Sinopharm’s inacti- and management of Malpractices including passing 234.6 million doses interval will be prolonged. The Global Times vated vaccine. medical insurance funds, fraudulently using med- administered in the US as Mixing different vaccines learned that BioNTech is Chinese authorities and it is promulgated to ical insurance funds may of the same day. Vaccines – even those made using conducting research on producers have also been further ensure security face a suspension of reim- currently being used in different techniques – have mixing inoculation to com- studying how to increase and promote the effective bursement through the China include inactivated been conducted or put bine the Pfizer/BioNTech existing vaccines’ efficacy use of the funds. network for three months vaccines of Sinopharm and under clinical trials in mRNA vaccine with by mixing them, Gao Fu, The regulation clarifies to 12 months and penal- Sinovac Biotech, recombi- some places where they are China’s inactivated or ade- the Director of the Chinese legal liabilities for every ties equal to up to five nant adenoviral vector facing a serious epidemic, novirus vector vaccine Center of Disease Control, part on the chain, includ- times of the amount vaccine of CanSinoBIO such as Brazil and the UK. to boost efficiency. said in an interview with ing administrative organs obtained falsely. and recombinant subunit Research on the method Researchers in Hong the Global Times. 8 • Monday May 3, 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 Australia to spend $1.3bn on childcare, Future of travel enticing women back to work

and tourism AUSTRALIA’S conserva- conduct in parliament. all of that additional Treasury estimates the tive government will The spending targets income from their wage additional spending will increase childcare subsi- families with more than eaten up in additional encourage up to 300 000 in looks positive dies, officials said on one child in daycare, boost- childcare cost.This will re- additional work hours a Sunday, in a pre-budget ing subsidies for those with move that disincentive,” he week – equivalent to announcement that two or more children aged said. 40 000 people working an TWO recent news items out of the United States and pledges A$1.7 billion up to five years-old to a Before the coronavirus extra day a week and boost the United Kingdom ought to be enough to set the ($1.31 billion) to boost maximum 95% subsidy pandemic pushed Austral- Australia’s economic out- minds of our tourism planners at ease as they female participation in the for their second and sub- ia’s A$2 trillion economy put by about A$1.5 billion concentrate on reviving the industry here. workplace. sequent children. into recession, Morrison’s a year, Frydenberg said. There is nothing like positive news when it comes The promised spending “Today’s measures... are government had pledged Australia’s government to the Barbados economy.When that news is directly comes ahead of a Federal targeted, and they are an to bring the budget has struggled to placate related to the all important tourism sector then it election expected in the investment in making our to black. public anger over claims of sets the tone for a likely improvement in Barbados’ next 12 months and fol- economy stronger and But on Thursday, the sexual abuse, discrimina- bread and butter industry. lows polls showing Prime boosting female working government provided a tion against women and One of the news items reported that the US econ- Minister Scott Morrison’s participation,” Treasurer foretaste of its spending misconduct in Canberra. omy continues to recover in the first quarter of this approval ratings have Josh Frydenberg told plans due to be announced In another move de- year as businesses reopened and the Government sunk, amid growing anger reporters in Canberra. in its yearly Budget on signed to regain voter sup- spending on COVID-19 relief has lead to a better out- over allegations of sexual Parents who “want to May 11, abandoning its port, it promoted a record turn there. abuse, discrimination work an extra couple of “debt and deficit disaster” seven female lawmakers to It was reported that the US economy grew 6.4 per against women and mis- days. Right now,they have rhetoric for a focus on jobs. Cabinet in March. cent between January and March 2021. That growth figure is up from the 4.3 per cent expansion which took place in the last quarter of 2020. Across the Atlantic came news from the UK that the New record deaths British economy is building momentum as COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease. Elsewhere in that country a Senior Barclays official was quoted three days ago as saying that the UK as virus engulfs India economy is on course for its biggest economic boom since 1948. Predictions are that growth there will be India has recorded its high- than 19 million cases of now declared it will start of Thursday, 40 nations around 6.5 per cent this year. est daily coronavirus death coronavirus – second only punishing officials if had sent shipments. These two countries are the leading markets for toll since the pandemic to the US. It has also life-saving supplies don’t The first of several long stay visitors into Barbados. began – a day after it confirmed more than make it to hospitals. planes from the US carry- If we refer to the 2019 reports on the economy, it became the first country to 215,000 deaths,though the All adults in India are ing oxygen cylinders, would be shown that overall arrivals from the USA register more than 400,000 real toll is thought to be far now eligible for a coron- masks and rapid diagnostic and the UK powered Barbados’ tourism industry to new cases in a 24-hour higher. avirus vaccine. But tests arrived in Delhi the $2.5 billion in travel earnings. period. Experts have cited low the planned launch of a on Friday. Because of the downturn a year later earnings Its health ministry said testing rates and the num- nationwide drive on “The bond between the plummeted. 3,689 people had died ber of people dying at Saturday faltered as sev- oldest democracy & the However, while early reports of economic improve- within the past 24 hours. home, especially in rural eral states said they did not largest one keeps getting ments in those places do not suggest that visitors PM Narendra Modi areas, as contributing have enough doses to start fortified,” India’s health will start flowing into Barbados from the two met the health minister factors to under-reported vaccinating those aged ministry tweeted. destinations, the reports do offer some comfort with Sunday morning to review figures. 18-44. The US had previously our planning. the crisis. The country’s previous Despite being the been criticised for impos- It is the type of information this country wants to Hospitals are battling to highest daily death toll, world’s biggest producer of ing a ban on sending raw hear and to work with given the recovery that is treat patients amid a also reported this week, vaccines, the country is materials for vaccines so necessary for the industry,workers and the overall chronic shortage of beds was 3,645. suffering an internal abroad, which limited economy. and medical oxygen. Brazil and the US have shortage and has placed a India’s ability to make It would be recalled that the Tourism and interna- Amid the crisis, vote both registered daily tolls of temporary hold on more of the AstraZeneca tional Business Minister Ms. Lisa Cummins remarked counting started on more than 4 000 during the all exports of AstraZeneca jab.The measure was lifted that although the projected numbers are low they Sunday for elections held course of the pandemic. to meet domestic last week. look strong for the fourth quarter. in four states:Assam,West In India, distressing demand. A German military air- So it will be some time before Barbados begins Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and images of families begging The Health Ministry said craft with 120 ventilators a total recovery in the tourism sector. Kerala – and the union for hospital beds and on Sunday that 84,599 reached India on Saturday, As of this year to date Barbados suffered a massive territory of Puducherry. life-saving supplies have people in the age bracket while the UK has also sent 96 per cent drop in tourism at the same time the The outcomes are being been emerging for had been given a first hundreds of pieces of economies in the two leading source markets were watched for signs of how more than ten days, while dose of the coronavirus vac- medical equipment. pressing ahead. the pandemic has affected morgues and crematori- cine. The Indian Express Coming on top of what transpired last year when support for Modi and his ums remain overwhelmed. India has been using two newspaper reports that there was an almost similar fall, it represented a big Hindu nationalist party, Twelve people died on vaccines – the Oxford- India’s Covid-19 taskforce, blow for the industry. the BJP. He has been Saturday at Delhi’s Batra AstraZeneca jab (known lo- which advises the govern- It was revealed at the recent news conference hosted criticised for allowing ral- Hospital after it ran out of cally as Covishield) and an- ment, is pushing hard for a by the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados that lies to take place during oxygen – for the second other made by Indian firm nationwide lockdown to occupancy levels at hotels were down considerably polling in March and April. time in a week. Bharat Biotech (Covaxin). help subdue the devastat- because of the impact COVID has had on international Results so far from West The Times of India news- The Russian-made ing second wave. travel. Bengal, where Modi had paper reported 16 deaths Sputnik V vaccine has also Dr Anthony Fauci, the As the Governor also remarked, tourism is such an been seeking a win, instead in the southern state of been approved for use, and top US infectious disease important industry that it stretches within other areas suggest the TMC party of Andhra Pradesh due to the first 150,000 doses expert, said on Saturday of the economy helping to stimulate them. There fierce Modi critic Mamata oxygen shortages in two arrived on Saturday. that an “immediate” are positive impacts on wholesale and retail, Banerjee will comfortably hospitals, and six in the Countries worldwide shutdown for a “few weeks” construction, transportation and the broad range of retain power. Delhi suburb of Gurgaon. have sent a flood of emer- could break the chain of ancillary services. India has recorded more Delhi High Court has gency medical supplies. As transmission in India. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its global forecast for 2021 indicated that growth in the Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes US, UK, and China will redound to the benefit E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen of Barbados, as well as the world economy. Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan So we are optimistic about tourism. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 9

Trinidad urges support for dealing with illegal migration PORT OF SPAIN, Tobago, some of whom Trinidad – The complain loudly at the Trinidad and Tobago COVID-19 measures… government Sunday involved and implicit in urged citizens to assist this,” Hinds warned, law enforcement adding that “the same gun agencies as the comes around and takes authorities deal with a the lives of your cousin and wave of illegal sons.” migration and the Griffith told reporters entry of illegal guns that while he would not and ammunition into divulge the operations the twin island being undertaken by the republic. several law enforcement National Security agencies, including the Minister Fitzgerald Hinds, recent discovery of arms National Security Minister, Fitzgerald Hind’s (centre) flanked by Police Commissioner, Gary Griffith (right) flanked by Police and ammunition here, he and Chief of Defence Staff, Air Vice Marshall, Darryl Daniel. Commissioner, Gary could however confirm Griffith and the Chief of that “massive operation” is country,person in the area up”. in the safety of Trinidad engaged in criminal Defence Staff, Air Vice ongoing involving all are unable to capture even “We are calling on the and Tobago, you need to activities that they will Marshall, Darryl Daniel, aspects of national the name of the vessels people of Trinidad and step up your game,… be soon have to provide an told a news conference security in order to keep bringing them into the Tobago to support law like your leaders. account of how they that at least 15 beaches the country safe. country. enforcement, Hinds said, “The struggle is a very accumulated their wealth. would come under greater He said last year 513 He said sarcastically urging lower rank law serious one… we are not Hinds also disclosed that scrutiny in a bid to curb illegal migrants were held that the batteries on their enforcement officials in the aware of rogue elements in since the official borders of the illegal migration trade and that 215 Venezuelans phones die on those police, Coast Guard and our ranks,” Hinds said, the country have been mainly from neighbouring had been charged the occasions, saying that the the Trinidad and Tobago urging the law closed as a result of the Venezuela. previous year. police need the evidence of Defence Force (TTDF) to enforcement agencies to measures put in place to “They have become the The national security even rogue police officers follow the example of their deal with those people curb the spread of the subject of the officials said that a involved in facilitating the hard working seniors. “boldly and swiftly”. coronavirus (COVID-19) professionals’ interest,” “massive operation” is trade. “I believe the police… Hinds said that the up until Thursday last Hinds said, noting that being put together to deal The authorities said that intelligent agencies have Office of the Attorney week, more than 35,000 other illegal ports would with the south-western those involved in criminal some more capacity inside General is being asked to people had been granted also be patrolled. peninsular and Griffith activities here should not you… that all of you law provide assistance exemptions to leave or He said there are “clear said it is ironical that be regarded as “Robin enforcement (officers), who especially through the enter the island, adding information that there are when many of the illegal Hoods” adding “it is time are sworn and who are Civil Asset Forfeiture “the system is working citizens of Trinidad and migrants enter the for other persons to step paid to conduct exercises legislation, warning those well”. C’bean countries affirm commitment to safe, orderly and regular migration SANTIAGO, Chile – The Caribbean, along with by the COVID-19 pan- evidence in policymaking, Economic Commission for ministers, deputy minis- demic, pointing to the of the imperative of pro- Latin America and the ters and other senior au- countries’ strong commit- tecting migrants at all Caribbean (ECLAC) says thorities from 29 of ment to the compact’s 23 stages of the migratory government representa- ECLAC’s member-states objectives. cycle, and of the creation of tives from Latin America and three associate mem- She said that ECLAC solid partnerships for mi- and the Caribbean have bers, as well as representa- considers migration to be gratory governance. committed themselves to tives of intergovernmental an opportunity for people, Bárcena also reiterated implementing the Global organisations, the United families, communities and ECLAC’s “unwavering and Compact for Safe, Orderly Nations system, and of civil countries, “as long as it solemn commitment” to and Regular Migration, society and other stake- arises from a voluntary the Global Compact for and ensuring that migra- holders. and informed choice. Migration and committed tion be an option, rather The event’s closing ses- “For us, safe migration is to applying the commis- than an obligation. sion was led by Alicia when migrant persons are sion’s technical expertise to ECLAC said delegates Bárcena, ECLAC’s bearers of rights through- achieve its objectives,in ac- made the commitment at Executive Secretary; out the migratory cycle; or- cordance with the needs of the closing session of the Michele Klein Solomon, derly migration occurs only each country. regional review meeting on Regional Director for if it is exercised in an in- “Our commitment is implementation of the Central America, North formed and free fashion, with people,their social in- compact, which was co-or- America and the not forced or compelled by clusion and development ganised by the Caribbean of IOM; and coercive factors, or as the with equality, so that mi- International Marcelo Pisani, Regional only option; migration is gration can be an option Organisation for Migration Director for South America regular when, in addition and not an obligation,” she (IOM), in its capacity as co- of IOM. to the previous points, mi- stressed. ordinator of the United In her remarks,Bárcena grants are able to access Klein Solomon urged for Nations Network on highlighted the significant some facilitating channels working jointly in an effec- Migration, and ECLAC. progress on the Global that serve to minimise ad- tive way,mobilising migra- The virtual meeting in- Compact’s implementation versity, especially for the tion for sustainable devel- cluded agencies, funds and presented by governments most vulnerable groups,” opment, protecting and programmes that make up of the region, particularly Bárcena said. helping migrants, and en- the Regional Network in considering the context of She called for embracing suring that no one is left Latin America and the the health crisis prompted the notions of the need for behind. Alicia Bárcena 10 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Mango exports expected to boost volume of goods shipped to external markets ST. JAMES, Jamaica – Agriculture and Fisheries Minister,Floyd Green, says the growth of Jamaica’s mango export programme is expected to boost the volume of goods shipped to external markets this year. “We are very happy to see the growth of the programme, as we are doing over 1 000 boxes of mangoes to the United States.We have [advanced significantly] from when we had only two registered farmers to now having over 18 farmers [who] are registered. Plus, we had only one registered exporter and now we have nine exporters,” Green said, adding that “we are looking to see tremendous growth this season”. He was speaking with JIS News after seeing off a shipment of some 1 100 boxes of East Indian and St Julian mangoes, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Floyd Green (right), is shown a sample of the over 5,000 kilogrammes of East Indian and totalling over 5 000 kilogrammes, to the St Julian mangoes that were shipped from the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay to the United States of US from the Sangster International America (USA) on April 30, by Plant Quarantine Officer, Solangie Johnson. Airport in Montego Bay on Friday. The shipment is the first to that pounds (45 359 kilogrammes) of Green, who noted that the US completion this fiscal year, will aid in country for 2021 and the second since Jamaican mangoes were sold in the US. shipment marked the first of several Jamaica’s quest to tap into more external the start of the year, following the Prior to the 2019 shipment, the United being targeted for 2021, said Jamaica is markets for mangoes. exportation of over 4 000 kilogrammes of States Department of Agriculture focused on becoming a major global Noting the USDA’s endorsement of the the fruit to the United Kingdom (UK) in (USDA) had given clearance for local supplier of fruits, among other facility’s development, Green said “we April. mango exports in 2014. agricultural produce. expect that that will really open up Jamaica resumed exporting mangoes Up to that time,Jamaica was exporting “We are on a mission to take the best [opportunities for] mango exportation to the US in 2019, shipping some 8 151 mangoes to Diaspora markets in Canada fruits in the world to the world,” he into the United States to a lot more kilogrammes, after being out of that and the UK. declared. mango farmers”. market since 1999. A total of 654 954 kgs were shipped to The minister further said he was “We think that is a tremendous Data shows that between January and Canada in 2013, and another 691 206 optimistic that the construction of a hot- development… as we continue to expand October 2020, approximately 100 000 kgs. in 2014. water treatment plant, which is slated for our export reach,” he added. Cuban government ends leading dissident’s hunger strike CUBA’S government put an end immediate steps to protect his life and yesterday to a week-long hunger health”. strike staged by a leading dissident People can survive more than a month – the head of a group that has without food, but rarely more than ten protested state censorship of days without food or fluids. artistic works – and was reported by Members of the San Isidro Movement authorities to be in stable condition. in November had staged a hunger strike A note published by the Havana against censorship and harassment of Department of Public Health said Luis independent creators and activists by Manuel Otero Alcantara was “referred” the Communist government. Police to a local hospital early on Sunday for ended the hunger strike, prompting a “self-imposed food deprivation” and rare protest by around 300 people in arrived by ambulance “and walking front of the Culture Ministry in Havana. without difficulty”. He had spent seven Authorities since then have vilified days without food or fluids. members of the group as outside The San Isidro Movement led by Otero agitators working with the United Alcantara, a performance artist, is a States. Its members repeatedly have dissident group that includes a few been temporarily detained and often told dozen artists, writers and activists. they cannot leave their homes, with The health department said the communications cut. hospital had found no sign of Otero Alcantara was arrested a few malnutrition or other chemical weeks ago as he protested a Communist imbalances but said Otero Alcantara Party congress by sitting in a garrote. had been admitted, was in stable Authorities seized or destroyed some of condition and was being attended to by his art. physicians. In his hunger strike, Otero Alcantara Members of the San Isidro movement was demanding a return of his art, said state security had forced Otero Dissident artist Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara speaks during an interview at the compensation, freedom of expression Alcantara from his home and that he headquarters of San Isidro Movement in Havana, Cuba, April 6, 2021. and an end to police harassment. The was in custody, presumably at the dissident group has been appealing for hospital.They questioned the report and than seven days?” the group asked in a strike. support since his hunger strike began, demanded more information. Twitter post. The US State Department in a Twitter gaining little traction in Cuba but notice “How is it possible he has no signs of Otero Alcantara’s home had been post on Saturday had expressed concern some abroad including from human malnutrition or dehydration after being surrounded by police for days with no over Otero Alcantara’s health and urged rights organisations and the US on a hunger and thirst strike for more one allowed in or out during his hunger “the Cuban government to take government. The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 11

Colombia’s president withdraws tax reform after protests COLOMBIAN President Ivan Duque food – but the government had previously The reform, which the government has dividends, an increase in income tax for said on Sunday he would withdraw a insisted it could not be withdrawn. insisted is vital to stabilising Colombia’s the wealthiest and deepened state proposed tax reform after sometimes Protests against the reform have led to finances, maintaining its credit rating austerity measures, Duque said. violent protests and widespread multiple deaths around the country since and funding social programs, remains "It is a moment for all of us to work lawmaker opposition, though he insisted they began on Wednesday. necessary, Duque said. together without malice,” he said. a reform is still necessary to ensure fiscal “I am asking Congress to withdraw the Political parties, local officials, business The central bank warned on Friday stability. law proposed by the finance ministry and leaders and civil society have contributed failure to approve the reform could have Duque said on Friday the law would be urgently process a new law that is the valuable ideas over the last several days, a negative impact on the economy,while revised to remove some of its most fruit of consensus, in order to avoid he said. a loss of the country’s investment-grade controversial points – including the financial uncertainty,” Duque said in a There is consensus on the need for credit rating has already been priced in levelling of sales tax on utilities and some video. temporary taxes on businesses and by many investors. Children march for end to violence in crime-ridden southern Mexico HOLDING balloons and home-made signs, children paraded the streets of a Mexican village, chanting slogans and calling for peace in a region where drug gangs wield deadly force. Boys and girls in Alcozacan, a hamlet in a mountainous municipality of southern Guerrero state, enthusiastically took part in a march that included adults on Friday, when Mexico celebrated Children’s Day. Wearing sandals and superhero T- shirts, they hoisted signs that read “We want peace” and “Stop the violence” while flashing smiles at onlookers. “In the mountains of Guerrero, children have been condemned to survive in a garden of thorns,” Abel Barrera, head of Policemen arrive to El Salvador Attorney General’s Office building as the Salvadoran Congress removed the Attorney the Tlachinollan Mountain human rights General, in Antiguo Cuscatlan, El Salvador, May 2, 2021. centre, said at a news conference. In an uncomfortable reminder of the violence, adult organisers of the march had originally planned to give kids tiny New Salvadoran Congress ousts wooden replicas of guns that members of the community use as part of a civilian self-protection force, one local told Reuters. attorney general in latest purge Instead, they distributed toy cars and dolls after the march. THE party of El Salvador’s President The popular Bukele hailed the vote to courthouse, though it was unclear what Local protection forces have popped up Nayib Bukele voted early on Sunday dismiss the judges as a victory, but actions if any they would take upon in parts of the country where exasperated to remove the country’s top international rights groups including installing themselves in the building. locals have given up on the government prosecutor, part of an intensifying Amnesty International and Human The five ousted judges – the most to provide security from menacing bands political purge that has rocked the Rights Watch called it a dangerous power powerful jurists on the 15-member court of criminals. Central American country and grab. – were among the few remaining checks “The guns we use are dignity,rebellion drawn international criticism. The five judges issued a ruling on Bukele’s power.Bukele’s party accused and resistance,” said one youth in a The vote shortly after midnight to invalidating the legislative action minutes them of impeding the government’s health speech at a local cultural centre. dismiss Attorney General Raul Melara after the vote to remove them from their strategy amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Guerrero, one of Mexico’s poorest followed a new legislative majority’s votes posts, declaring it an unconstitutional The New Ideas party took firm control states, played host to the infamous on Saturday night to kick out all of the attack on El Salvador’s democracy and of Congress after midterm elections in Ayotzinapa abduction and presumed judges on the constitutional chamber of plunging the country into an uncertain February gave it a more than two-thirds massacre of 43 students training to be the nation’s supreme court, which the political battle. supermajority in the unicameral teachers in 2014. small opposition and even one of US In the hours after the initial vote on the legislature. Saturday marked the new Before and since then, it has been at President Joe Biden’s advisers criticised. judges, lawmakers representing the legislature’s first session. the crossroads of a wide range of criminal Ruling party lawmakers accused president’s newly emboldened New Ideas The votes to remove the judges and the rackets, including kidnappings, extortion Melara, whose office wields significant party voted to replace the judges as well prosecutor passed with 64 lawmakers in and illegal poppy production to make power to conduct investigations,of lacking as the attorney general. Police were called favour, or nearly 80% of the 84-seat heroin. independence. in to escort the new judges to the legislature.

Mostly sunny.

High: 2:13 a.m. and 2:43 p.m. New York: 15°C Yesterday: 0 mm Miami: 29°C Low: 8:24 a.m. For the month: 22.2 mm Max: 29.3°C Boston: 22°C and 8:43 p.m. For the year: 239.7 mm Min: 25.4°C Toronto: 16°C Montreal: 19°C London: 9°C 5:42 a.m. 6:14 p.m. 12 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

UK’s PM Johnson faces more questions over personal spending LONDON – British Prime Minister grappling with a stream of allegations The newspaper also reported that a Boris Johnson faced more allega- about both his expenditure and the man- Conservative Party donor had been asked tions yesterday about his expendi- agement of his core team at the centre of to pay for a nanny for Johnson’s young ture on the refurbishment of the British government that opponents son, Wilfred. his apartment and on childcare for say show he is unfit for office. “I don’t mind paying for leaflets but his young son, which his foreign min- Johnson has repeatedly said that he I resent being asked to pay to literally ister dismissed as baseless paid for the refurbishment of his Downing wipe the prime minister’s baby’s bottom,” gossip. Street apartment, but the Electoral the unidentified donor was quoted as Johnson has repeatedly weathered Commission says it has grounds to sus- saying. gaffes, crises over Brexit and disclosures pect an offence has been committed in the Johnson’s Downing Street office did not of his adultery,but the revelation that he funding of the work. address the reported refurbishment costs, and his fiancee, Carrie Symonds, spent The Sunday Times said the total cost of but said in a statement: “The Prime UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. lavishly to redecorate their residence with the work was around 200,000 pounds Minister has covered the costs of all a designer feted by royalty has touched a ($276,000) and that one invoice was set- childcare.” ample of tittle tattle,” Raab told Sky TV. nerve. tled by a Conservative Party donor The Conservative Party declined to He said Johnson had been “crystal clear” One of the leaders of the 2016 campaign directly – a benefit-in-kind that would comment on the report. about the expenditure on the r to leave the European Union, Johnson is need to be declared to tax authorities. efurbishment of the apartment. ‘Tittle tattle’ Before local elections on Thursday Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab declined across most of Britain, some opinion to answer directly who initially paid for surveys show Johnson’s ratings have the work and said he had “no idea” if a dipped. His party also faces a parliamen- donor had been asked to pay for Johnson’s tary by-election in Hartlepool, northern childcare. England, which the opposition Labour “The last issue you asked about is an ex- Party has controlled for decades.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson Italian gov’t approves plan for new Colosseum floor THE Italian government has approved a Franceschini said. plan to furnish Rome’s ancient Colosseum The minister said cultural events could with a new floor,giving visitors the chance be held in the Colosseum once the floor to stand where gladiators once fought. had been restored to its former glory. A photo issued by Kensington Palace of Princess Charlotte taken by Catherine, Culture Minister Dario Franceschini Milan Ingegneria was one of ten com- the Duchess of Cambridge at the weekend in Norfolk, released ahead of her announced the project to build the wooden, petitors who answered the Italian sixth birthday yesterday. retractable floor yesterday. government’s 2020 call for bids to design Italian engineering firm Milan a new floor for the Colosseum. Ingegneria won the 18.5m euro (£16.1; The winning design involves installing $22.2m) contract to design the floor. hundreds of wooden slats that can be ro- Britain’s Princess Charlotte The floor is expected to be finished by tated to allow natural light and air into the 2023. underground chambers. At present, the 2 000-year-old monu- Italy’s culture ministry said the new 3 celebrates sixth birthday ment has no floor. It was removed by ar- 000 square miles (32,300 square feet) floor chaeologists in the 19th Century,exposing would be entirely reversible, should plans BRITAIN’S royal family released a pho- her arms stretched out and her hair the underground network of tunnels for a new design be made in the future. tograph on Saturday of a smiling Princess falling over her shoulders, smiling at where gladiators and animals were held The Colosseum was the biggest am- Charlotte, one of Queen Elizabeth’s great- the camera. before the Roman blood sports began. phitheatre in the Roman Empire. grandchildren, the day before the princess The photograph was taken by Kate Franceschini said the “extraordinary” Gladiatorial fights and other public celebrated her sixth birthday on May 1. early on Saturday in Norfolk, eastern new floor would allow visitors to spectacles were hosted in front of crowds Charlotte is fourth in line to the British England, where the family currently live. “see the majesty of the Colosseum” from its of at least 50 000 people. throne and is the only daughter of Prince Charlotte was born in London on May centre. While the coronavirus pandemic has William, Elizabeth’s grandson, and his 2, 2015, and is William and Kate’s second “It’s another step forward toward limited tourism, the Colosseum remains wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge. child. Charlotte’s elder brother Prince rebuilding the arena, an ambitious project one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. In the picture Charlotte is shown wear- George was born in July 2013 and her that will aid the conservation of the ar- Before the pandemic struck, the ing a blue dress with a pink floral pattern younger brother Prince Louis was born chaeological structures while getting back monument attracted about 7.6 million and pink buttons, and she stands with in April 2018. to the original image of the Colosseum,” people in 2019.

Barbados Advocate

May 3, 2021 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS GROWTH CRITICAL ‘Get the economy growing again’

GOVERNOR of the Central Bank of Barbados, Cleviston Haynes said growth must be restored to the Barbados economy in order for the country to lower its increasing debt to GDP ratio of 153 per cent. Haynes said that the increase in the ratio from 117 per cent this time last year to the 153 per cent at March this year is not really driven by the debt the country incurred. Rather, he told the media, that the size of the country’s economy had shrunk. Haynes said the truth is that while Government has borrowed over the past year the increase in the debt to GDP ratio is as a result of a decline in economic growth. The increase in the size of the debt is about $500 million in loans. “So what we have to be able to do in order to bring these numbers back in line is to get the economy growing again,” the Governor said during his review of the economy for the period January to March this year. “That really is critical,” the Central Bank of Barbados official said. In those three months of this year, economic output in Barbados dropped 19.8 per cent, compared to about three per cent in the same period last year. For the whole of 2020 the economy here also declined 18.9 per cent, making Barbados one of the worst economic performers in the Caribbean as COVID- 19 took hold. Commenting on the 2020 performances regional economies also Central Bank of Barbados, Cleviston Haynes. hit hard by the pandemic, the Barbados- based Caribbean Development Bank I do not want you to take away is because happened, because the size of the ratio was put at around 157 per cent. reported double digit declines for some of the number suddenly seemed to pop back economy has fallen so considerably that However, the new Barbados Labour them. Economic output in Jamaica was up that there is this indiscipline the ratio has actually increased above Party administration by way down ten per cent, Trinidad and Tobago approach to the Government finances where we would have wanted it,” he restructuring both domestic and foreign 11 per cent, and Belize 13 per cent. once again. remarked. debt to the 117 per cent to which the According to Governor Haynes, “What “This is something that has just At the end of 2017 the debt to GDP Governor referred.

TRADE IN FOCUS: Barbados lagging CARICOM governance More exportable products needed in green shift action review PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGE 4 2 • Monday May 3, 2021 Business Monday

More exportable products needed

By Jewel Brathwaite said or even hinted now COVID pandemic. Such manufacturers. Even this island needs are the occasions when after Intel pulled out of A FEW weeks ago one another, or at least two the island faced global Barbados there were of our columns in this more exportable TRADE IN recessions and others in the segment publication queried products to boost goods coincidentally saw its that ensured vital whether Barbados exports while making the tourism industry falling exports of those has enough island’s economy more apart. assembly items that products it can sell robust and sustainable, Even now,as we speak, earned vital foreign abroad to make a also concentrating on FOCUS tourism is going to be exchange for the country. meaningful job of tourism and challenging going At the time of problems exporting. international business to forward. in the electronic This question, it would boost foreign inflows. is necessary to broaden repeatedly. However, this is not a business, Economist Dr. be recalled was put to a The International Barbados’ exports. It was reported last call to abandon Tourism Arnold McIntyre, said it former Government Monetary Fund (IMF) Tourism as can be seen week that it fell some 96 because it is still a was up to Barbados to official who said bluntly which comes in here from every global per cent, the highest on significant part of the devise a new framework at the time that the every quarter seemed, recession that has record, in the wake of economy, especially when for boosting island needs to market and more recently the impacted Barbados, has COVID-19. it is booming as it did in manufacturing and effectively what it has Governor of the Central as a rule been the first The tourism story can 2019 when earnings subsequently exports. rather than attempting Bank of Barbados, casualty of the global be traced to 1974, 1981, were well over two billion At one point also there to produce more. believe that further economic downturns the 1991, 2001, 2008 and dollars. was talk within the Even if it is not being economic diversification country has experienced currently with the Government’s Barbados investment Economic Adviser, Dr. and Development Kevin Greenidge, is of Corporation (BIDC), to the view that while there pursue the development is a necessity to of a couple of new restructure the economy, products based on rum. it should be done around That did not amount to tourism and not at the much and the project was expense of it. abandoned. As for International Right now a new Business this economic assault is required to segment is also having bring more life into its challenges from what manufacturing and appears to be a global exploring the possibility campaign by the OECD of new products from a and the European Union process of research and and no one knows where development. they are going to stop To this day the country and when next they will is still persisting with a come calling. sugar industry whose Therefore, while output is no more than Tourism and 10 000 tons when International Business stacked against the more remain vital, it is still a than 100 000 tons even wise move to have when the industry was enough products to make on the decline. a success of a robust Indeed, both garments goods export programme. and furniture The long and short of this manufacturing had loads means boosting what we of potential as they were have. exported across the So the question of Caribbean. having more exportables They were spoken of is vital. highly as holding out Last year the principal hope for Barbados ones that contributed following the departure largely to exports that of Intel and other realised inflows of electronic firms from the $445 million, were Barbados landscape, and chemicals, rum, a range the demise of a number of processed foods, sugar, of companies which printed papers, cement, were involved in and construction garment and furniture materials. productions. Not so long ago As was said in a Barbados boast of previous column up to molasses which the now it is not known what country is likely to see an level of industrial policy increase in production is likely to come on board this year, as promised by in Barbados assuming the Minister of the country is serious Agriculture and Food about restructuring the Security, Indar Weir. economy around tourism Other exportables were rather than continuing electronics, garments, “to put all our eggs in the and wooden furniture, tourism basket” as among others. commentators are fond of One of the highlights saying. of the electronics sector Something needs to be was the presence in the done if Barbados is to island of Intel, one of the emerge from the present world’s leading electronic crisis. Business Monday Monday May 3, 2021 • 3

Barbados lagging in green shift ECONOMIST Dr. by the end of last year, 75 is that wind farms were to envisaged from that Delisle Worrell, is per cent by the end of be established onshore. source.That issue has now lamenting the slow 2025, 89 per cent by 2030 According to him, been rendered moot by the pace Barbados is and 96 per cent by 2035. “establishing wind farms decision to install the 33 making in developing “However, there were in the deep waters MW Clean Energy Bridge, its renewable energy issues still to be resolved,” surrounding Barbados which uses fossil fuel. sector. he said in the Letter would be costly and In addition, the In his May 2021 which is published problematic. Existing Economist said that the Economic Letter, Dr. monthly to comment on wind farms elsewhere are nature of the energy Worrell said that over the social and economic in shallow waters of the storage facility,crucial for past several years the issues. continental shelf of the stability of the grid, is country had benefited He reasoned that the mainland countries and yet to be determined, from world-leading table lays out a scenario nearby islands”. while noting that expertise in the that would have achieved As such, Dr.Worrell said Professor Olav Hohmeyer, development of a strategy a target of generating 96 that Barbadians will need one of the world’s leading to switch to renewable per cent of electricity from to be convinced that experts in renewable sources of energy. renewable sources by onshore wind farms would energy, has suggested the Five years ago, he 2035. enhance the landscape, use of pump storage. recalled, the prospects for “Thanks to the Green much as windmills once According to him, pump the use of renewables had Energy Bridge, the best did. storage, which takes shown, according to a that might be achieved by A second unresolved advantage of surplus summary contained in a then has been reduced to issue, he said, was the power to pump water to a table, that Barbados about 90 per cent,” said biofuels to be used as feed higher elevation to create would have achieved 40 Dr. Worrell. for the 25 Megawatt (MW) hydro power, provides per cent renewable energy One issue, he explained, of power that were cheaper power.

Dr. Delisle Worrell

BANK RATES Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of business on Friday by the Central Bank of Barbados. Valid for May 3, 2021 One issue is that wind farms were to be established onshore. Notes: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 Canadian Dollar 1.60749 1.65504 Blinken meets virtually with 15 East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 Euro 2.35551 2.45469 Pound Sterling 2.70632 2.82028 United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 Demand/Sight: Caribbean foreign ministers Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 US Secretary of State, slapped “do not travel” human rights”. the travel bans, despite Canadian Dollar 1.61664 1.65358 Anthony Blinken, became advisories on some 15 There were also more the obvious impact they East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 the first top official in the Caribbean islands, a move words – a “US will have. The CARICOM Euro 2.39007 2.43946 Biden administration to that could further commitment to working Ministers also took the Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 meet with CARICOM devastate the already with all countries in the opportunity to urge the Pound Sterling 2.76603 2.80278 ministers of government decimated tourism region to advance bilateral US to assist with access to United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 recently. However, while dependent economies of and regional interests”. much needed vaccines Telegraphic Transfer the meeting may have the region. Nothing about which was an imperative Currency Buying Selling been historic, Blinken Nothing concrete was donations of vaccines or for the region to emerge Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 brought words and a announced from the any aid. In fact, the from the economic Canadian Dollar 1.61971 1.65358 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 “commitment to working meeting except a State CARICOM, statement devastation caused by the Euro 2.39457 2.43946 with all countries,” but Department read out after the meeting pandemic. Guyana Dollar 0.00940 0.00946 little else. quoted Blinken as saying promoted pretty much the Blinken, according to Pound Sterling 2.75120 2.80278 Blinken, who met the US “plans to manage same spiel – that the CARICOM, then said he United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 virtually with 14 foreign the COVID-19 pandemic meeting “focused on the would engage with his affairs ministers at 1 p.m. and promote a regional Covid-19 pandemic and its colleague US Cabinet INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL recently, “emphasised the economic recovery”. It also health and economic Secretaries on the issues CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE strong partnership plans “co-operation on fallout for the region, of mutual interest raised RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS between the United States increasing climate recovery of the regional by the CARICOM N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. and the Caribbean”. resilience, and continued economy, climate change Ministers. BDS$ Guyana Dollar 0.00943 Ironically, the meeting collaborations on and democracy, human That’s it – the end! Not Jamaica Dollar 0.01303 came just a day after his strengthening security, rights and security”. No a single concrete plan or T&T Dollar 0.29591 US State Department democratic values, and one seemed to have raised offer.Just more words. 4 • Monday May 3, 2021 Business Monday

Editor’s CARICOM governance Notebook action review “If one member suffers, all Economy met virtually to suffer together with it; if discuss what the Stringent one member is honoured, Commission would all rejoice together with it.” recommend to CARICOM – 1 Corinthians 12:26 Heads of Government as measures to the best ‘collective’ CARICOM, a response to the pandemic, commendable resource drawing on what was then correct economic base of 18 former British our draft report for the colonies, Haiti and region’s long-term growth Suriname with 18 million strategy and direction. imbalances people over a collective unaware of any attempt to save lives and restore Our focus was on what land mass of 500 000 km2, resolve the internal livelihoods. could we do now, given all IT seems that from here on Barbadians will have has evolved 60 years after political conflicts among We are reminded by of the constraints of to navigate some difficult economic times as the the demise of the West its members, which futurist Joel Barker that operating in the administration looks to bring more order to the Indies Federation. bedevilled the Federation’s “when a paradigm shifts, environment then, that country’s economy. The principal overarching governance everyone goes back to zero could have an immediate Speculation has been rife that to correct the governance organs of structure of a single – your past success impact on the region, as economic imbalances and to aim for growth the CARICOM are: (1) The independent state. It may guarantees you nothing”. well as being consistent government could be forced to institute some very Conference of Heads of be argued that such an CARICOM moved into with where we need to go stringent measures to get the job done. Government with a innovative structure is action to address economic in the long-run.” Last week the Central Bank of Barbados rotating biannual likely to enhance growth before COVID-19 In February 2021, the Governor revealed how the economy had declined chairmanship by a Prime CARICOM’s rate of was upon us. Professor Conference of Heads of under the weight of COVID. Furthermore, he Minister; and (2) a quasi economic growth, reduce Avinash Persaud was Government accepted the suggested that to deal with the high debt to GDP cabinet through which its high operational cost, appointed Chairman of report of the CARICOM ratio there has to be a return to economic growth. individual heads of increase its overall the CARICOM Commission on the Currently, Government’s fiscal position does government have lead efficiency, and ultimately Commission on the Economy with a 12-Point not warrant remedial action, but with the country responsibility for specific achieve socioeconomic economy. In an October Action Plan in Response still in a programme with the International areas and the Community balance and sustainability. 2020 report to the to the COVID-19 Global Monetary Fund (IMF), one does not know how Council Of Ministers The advent of COVID- CARICOM Heads of Pandemic and decided that will be played out. (Ministers of CARICOM 19 in 2020 resulted in a Government he stated:“At that the CARICOM Barbados requires new investments that can affairs in member states). paradigm shift for the height of the first wave Secretariat will work with create economic activity,jobs, and overall output. There are biannual CARICOM from a focus on of the Global Pandemic of the Commission to review It has been said from early and as far back as May meetings of the its recovery and growth to COVID-19, the CARICOM the recommendations and 2018 that private sector confidence has returned. Conference, but I am an emergency strategy to Commission on the formulate implementation That means the private sector has to show up and plans for the consideration get on with the job of stimulating the economy. of the 42nd Regular That in effect is one of the keys to the current Meeting of the Conference situation facing Barbados. in July 2021. In the last column we proposed a high-level summary prescription delineating some innovative and disruptive governance strategies which may help to May improve the eco and socioeconomic health of CARICOM. The primary stakeholders in the growth of a country are the Government (regulatory and service functions); the private • The 38th annual general meeting sector (growth of the economy by doing of the Light and Power Employees business); the trade Co-operative Credit Union is unions (inducing employer/employee scheduled for May 8 at the Lloyd harmony towards Erskine Sandiford Centre. increased productivity for fair compensation); the church and wider faith • The Caribbean Commission on community (uplifting morality in society); and the Economy Report will be civil society (service discussed at the Shridath Ramphal entities mobilising groups of individuals to support Centre at the UWI, Cave Hill, on the aforementioned). May 12. The Conference of the Heads of Government may have provision for • The annual general meeting of private sector observers but what is needed at this Emera Incorporated is scheduled stage is a CARICOM- for May 20. initiated regional summit of all stakeholders to chart the way forward. Unity is strength! Business Monday Monday May 3, 2021 • 5

‘Barbados has to earn more foreign exchange’ THERE is the likelihood that the country in meeting some of its international financial institutions to To this end the Central Bank of Barbados could lose at least $100 commitments. offset the normal losses from debt service, Barbados does not expect a repeat of that million in reserves by the end of the Over the past three years reserves and payments made on behalf of this year.The Governor pointed out that year. have been accumulated mainly through Government. the conditions for international So said Cleviston Haynes, Governor of borrowings from the multilateral lending The Governor said that they do not companies are changing and as such the the Central Bank of Barbados who at the institutions at a time when the export expect the banking system to be as strong country does not expect that level of same time insisted that the country has sectors have been far from robust. and robust as it was last year in relation inflows this year. to earn more foreign exchange so as to In his review Haynes said that the to inflows of foreign exchange. “So our expectations are that we could aim for a balance between what is earned economy lost $86 million in reserves According to him, “What you had last lose a little bit of foreign exchange during and what is borrowed. during the first quarter of 2021 leaving year were foreign exchange that was 2021. However, that is what the country “We have to earn foreign exchange,” he an amount of $2.6 billion in reserves. carried forward from the tourism season, has built buffers for, recognising that by said, querying whether the country is “Our expectations for the reserves are that enabled the banks to utilise that doing this as demand for traditional earning enough. that we could lose about $100 million by foreign exchange to service customers. payments decrease we will be in a In his review of the economy for the the end of the year,” the Governor said. As you were aware we had a very good position to make those payments.” first quarter of this year,Haynes recalled Haynes explained that this is based on take from the companies that earned He stated that based on what they in that last year export companies earned the fact that Barbados anticipates foreign exchange since their corporate the Bank are seeing, there won’t be a enough foreign exchange which assisted getting some additional funds from the tax take was substantial in 2020.” substantial loss at this time. ILO calls for making occupational safety and health a top priority THE International Labour Organisation "We call for very ambitious actions, (ILO) has emphasised the need to move impact actions based on effective social from commitments to action to strengthen dialogue to implement innovative occupational safety and health (OSH) in solutions,” Pinheiro said after warning Latin American and Caribbean countries, that “after this crisis the workplace will to address the unprecedented challenge of never be the same, as one of the most COVID-19 contagions. important struggles will be fought there Representatives from governments, to prevent the spread of the virus.” employers’ and workers’ organisations, The event was moderated by Colombian and OSH specialists gathered for a large journalist Claudia Palacios. Other regional virtual meeting on World Day featured speakers included Alicia for Safety and Health at Work (28 April) Bárcena, Executive Secretary of the under the theme Economic Commission for Latin America #ResiliencewithDecentWork, to discuss and the Caribbean (ECLAC); Karen greater investments for better prevention Gordon-Boyle, Program Officer, Health of COVID-19 and more resilient societies. Development Sector, Caribbean “Today more than ever we must Community (CARICOM); Julietta transform our commitment into action, Rodriguez-Guzman, Regional Adviser on our work to results and our ideas into Workers’ Health of the Pan American effective and immediate responses,” said Health Organisation (PAHO); and Frida Vinícius Pinheiro, ILO Director for Latin Marina Fischer, Council Member of the America and the Caribbean, who also International Occupational Health highlighted that “inaction is complicity Commission (ICOH). right now.” A recently released technical note The Prime Minister of Barbados, the prepared by the ILO Regional Office for Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, and the this event highlighted the relevance of President of the Dominican Republic, His health and safety strategies and policies Excellency Luis Abinader, sent video to achieve a post-pandemic recovery. messages highlighting their commitment “The reactivation of productivity and to improve occupational safety and health economic recovery will depend systems. significantly on strict compliance with The meeting was also attended by prevention and protection measures several Labour Ministers, including Colin against this biological hazard to avoid E. Jordan of Barbados; Pablo Mieres of new infections and outbreaks that Uruguay; Angel Custodian Cabrera of endanger health and threaten lives,as Colombia; Luis Miguel De Camps García- well as recovery strategies,” says the ILO Mella of the Dominican Republic; and document. Carla Bacigalupo of Paraguay. The ILO Regional Office reported that In addition, there was representation of in the context of the pandemic, it launched employers’ and workers’ organisations, a Regional Initiative on Occupational headed by Cícero Pereira da Silva, Safety and Health, with the aim of Secretary of Social Policy of the Trade positioning OSH as the axis of a post Union Confederation of the Americas pandemic economic recovery and (CSA) and Alberto Echavarría, productivity reactivation policies in Latin Representative of the International America and the Caribbean. Organisation of Employers (OIE). The Initiative has three components, “This April 28th has a very special which focus on various activities that are connotation,” Pinheiro said at the opening being promoted and will be extended of the event. He recalled that since the during 2021: start of the pandemic just over a year ago, • Promote social dialogue on the ILO’s the crisis had cost the region nearly one regulatory framework, as well as improve million lives, destroyed 26 million jobs, and update national laws and strengthen and caused several businesses to close. institutional capacity and social dialogue COVID-19’s health, social and economic on OSH; crisis “is the reality of millions of people • Develop, disseminate and provide in the region,”he added, noting that “after constituents with preventive all we have experienced it is not management tools in the workplace; and impossible for us to reorder priorities and • Stimulate communication, research put occupational safety and health at the and partnerships aimed at strengthening top.” OSH at the regional level. 6 • Monday May 3, 2021 Business Monday

Pandemic being dubbed COVID-19 Recession By Bruce Hennis as the Tradable component of the spending by the Government has seen island’s economy – that is, those that institution’s cash flows fall from a THE simple reality is that in addition to industry sectors whose output in terms healthy surplus of $63.6 million for the the very tragic health challenges that of goods and services are traded first three months of 2020 to a deficit (or Barbados is currently undergoing, the internationally, then for the first three negative figure) of just under -$389 island also continues to be adversely months of 2019, the pre-Covid-19 million for the first three months of impacted by one of the worst ever global months, that aspect of the economy was 2021. economic crises since the Great valued at about $561 million. Close to Depression of the 1930’s. In fact, because three quarters or 75% of this amount Our debt of the severity of the impact of this came from Tourism. The statement “government will need health crisis on the economies of the Output from Tourism for the first to rely on the continued support of entire world, this pandemic is being three months of 2019 was measured at international financial institutions” is dubbed the COVID-19 Recession. close to $414 million, however, two years reflected in the fact that for the first 3 Barbados’ historically, heavy reliance later in 2021, that figure has now months of 2019, debt owed to on tourism has unfortunately now significantly fallen by just over $400 International Financial Institutions become a strategy that is clearly not a million to reach only $13 million. amounted to close to $1.4 billion. good one. What must also be noted here is that However, for the first 3 months of 2021, contrary to thinking in some circles, that amount has now reached close to Barbados’ current story sugar is simply now no longer king. Of $2.4 billion – a clear increase of $1 billion For the first 3 months of the 2021, the that total output of $561 million for the being added to the country’s external value of Barbados’ economy, as first three months of 2019, just over $1 debt load. measured by its Real Gross Domestic million (much less than 1%) came from The Gross Public Sector Debt to GDP Product, was just over $1.5 billion. sugar, a clear demonstration of how the ratio has also now climbed to a first However, to get an idea of the degree to local economy has now become so quarter high of just over 152%, Bruce Hennis which the pandemic has impacted the heavily dependent on just one single compared to the pre-Covid-19 (1st economy, the value of the island’s product, Tourism, and the clear and quarter, 2019) figure of 125%. This This is therefore the reason for the economy for the first 3 months of 2019, present danger of continuously significant increase is a result of two following statement, issued in the the year before the Pandemic had begun, maintaining such a strategy. key factors combining to produce this Central Bank report: “The debt ratio will was just over $2.0 billion. In other words, result: remain elevated because of the shock to the pandemic has caused the value of Other areas have been affected (1) The first is the rise in Gross Public economic activity.Government remains Barbados’ economic output for the first Unemployment has increased and Sector Debt (the top figure in the ratio) committed to attaining the targeted 60 quarter of 2021, to fall by a significant Barbadians are being affected. One from $12.8 billion in the first three per cent debt-to-GDP ratio, but in the $0.5 billion (read that as a half billion simple statement from the Central months of 2019 to $12.9 billion for the context of the lost GDP as a result of dollars) from when times were a lot Bank’s just released Economic Review first three months of 2021; and COVID, consideration of a new target better during the first quarter of 2019. summarises this: “Unemployment (2) The second is the fall in Economic date may be necessary.” What does this mean for anyone living remained elevated during the first output as measured by the Gross This therefore represents a simple on the island? A decline in economic quarter.” Domestic Product (the bottom figure in reminder to anyone attempting to output of this magnitude, translates to Foreign Exchange Inflows to the the ratio), in 2021 from the higher levels develop a long-range forecast for any lower levels of business being conducted, country have also been impacted. For recorded in 2019. economy, especially in a global calamity higher unemployment and for the the first three months of 2019 these were Thus, when the Central Government such as this one is, that only God government itself, less taxes (its most measured as being $1.5 billion, but for Debt increases, whilst the Gross Almighty Himself holds the key to the important source of revenue) being the first three months of 2021, this Domestic Product decreases, that future of any nation in His hands. collected. amount has now fallen by just over $840 unfortunate combination results in a (Bruce Hennis is a financial analyst million to reach a total amount of just Higher Debt to GDP ratio. and a member of the economic team of What else has been happening? over $650 million. Perhaps, best explained by the the Peoples Party for Development and If we were to focus on what is known Lower tax revenue, but greater following picture: Democracy.) Aim to further deepen Rating firm launched in Jamaica financial system reforms LOCAL stakeholders are endorsing the providing affordable and objective ratings noting that the process will aid market Steven Gooden, president of the recent opening of an office in Jamaica by of entities’ credit worthiness from its development and inform decision-making Jamaica Securities Dealers Association Caribbean Information and Credit Rating indigenous position of having an intimate among investors especially at a time when (JSDA), also endorsed the local presence Services Limited (CariCRIS). understanding of the levels of risks government has encouraged Jamaican of CariCRIS as a big move which supports These stakeholders say that the move unique to the Caribbean. The company, dollar bond issues and a need for more the ongoing changes to improve market will help to further deepen financial which now provides rating services to domestic assets to be brought to market. efficiency and provide wider access to system reforms as it complements approximately 18 countries across the Dr.Clarke said that CariCRIS’s decision financing solutions. ongoing processes in the country’s region, will operate locally from a small to establish an office here reflects the “Greater mobilisation of capital across financial sector landscape and improve satellite office out of the Pan-Jam building entity’s endorsement of local reform the Caribbean will bring us closer to investor access to information. in New Kingston. processes now underway as the country becoming a regional market. With the Speaking at the virtual launch event Finance Minister Dr.Nigel Clarke, who seeks to build back better, recover capital market reforms now taking place, held earlier this week, CEO of CariCRIS was the key note speaker at the launch, stronger and provide access to finance to let’s take the capital markets to another Wayne Dass said that the office is being welcomed the firm in Jamaica as a support the growth of domestic level [as] Jamaica and the wider open at a time when there was an product of government’s foresight, which businesses. Caribbean can create a niche in the global increased demand for independent credit began in November 2018 following a set- Bank of Jamaica Governor Richard financial marketplace to become an ratings and as government modernises up of the Financial Deepening Byles, commenting on the move, lauded exporter of financial services,” financial sector legislations which calls Implementation Group, chaired by the office’s opening as another layer in he said. for greater levels of transparency and economics expert David Marston, with protecting local investors. He said that CariCRIS as a regional credit rating price discovery in the local market. the support of key stakeholder groups. with the introduction of recent legislations agency has shareholdings from some 19 “With our business relations dating The minister said that it was this which gave rise to the use of liquidity financial institutions inclusive of central, back some 15 years with clients in deepening of the financial market guided coverage ratios (LCR), which helps commercial and development banks Jamaica and a growing clientele, it was by proper policy frameworks which financial institutions to locate assets that across the Caribbean and CRISIL – an really only a matter of time before this stressed the need for entities to are high quality liquid assets (HQLA), associate of globally recognised rating happened.Therefore, notwithstanding the standardise asset quality for sound the need for external ratings becomes agency Standard & Poors. The agency, raging coronavirus pandemic around us, investment, which has now paved the way paramount. The implementation of the now formally approved as a recognised we think that the time is right now and for rating services which in turn also capital adequacy framework also gives credit rated agency and an external credit that we are indeed doing this for the right forms part of government’s strategic plan licensees the option to utilise external assessment institution in the Caribbean, reasons,” he stated. for recovery. credit ratings as it seeks to determine the has to date processed over 1000 ratings for With approximately 25 per cent of its “Ratings are therefore not an abstract risk ratings on credit exposures. Both of government, corporate and SME entities business accounting for local transactions, concept for sophisticated investors, there these frameworks, Byles said, will auger in the Caribbean. It has so far worked second to 42 per cent from host country is a public policy role and public interest well for the deepening of the country’s with clients in Jamaica such as JMMB, Trinidad and Tobago, CariCRIS will be that’s why we want to have domestic capital markets, financial stability and JN Group, GraceKennedy,NCB and JPS, seeking to continue its service in ratings here in Jamaica,” he said, further economic growth. Supreme Ventures among others. Business Monday Monday May 3, 2021 • 7

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

April 30, 2021 Deposit Receipts There was no activity on the Regular Market. Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline Week in Review EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $22.45 $22.60 $0.15

This week, the Regular Market traded a total volume of 7,560 shares. The two companies traded were Insurance Corporation of Barbados Limited with 5,800 and Goddard Enterprises Limited with 1,760 shares.

BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Friday April 30, 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 April 30, 2021 April 29, 2021 Local 2,454.85 2,454.69 0.16 ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.10 $0.30 1 10,498 Cross-list 1,140.86 1,140.86 - BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 70 - Composite 601.24 601.20 0.04 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 - - - - - April 30, 2021 April 29, 2021 Local 4,934.44 4,934.11 0.33 Barbados Farms Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $0.68 $0.68 - $0.30 $0.40 7,574 6,561 Cross-list 145.67 145.67 - Composite 5,080.12 5,079.79 0.33 Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 23-Mar-21 - - - $4.10 $4.10 - $4.00 $4.05 72 5,500 MUTUAL FUND FirstCaribbean International Bank 14-Apr-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $1.80 - 12,578 April 30, 2021 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 12-Apr-21 - - - $0.16 $0.16 - - $0.16 - 5,168 CHANGE - Dev Fund 23-Apr-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.2583 -0.0046 23-Apr-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2670 0.0003 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 01-Apr-21 - - - $0.56 $0.56 - $0.56 $0.57 5,522 1,000 23-Apr-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6766 -0.0001 -Value Fund 23-Apr-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.8230 6.8230 6.8230 -0.0017 23-Apr-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.1046 -0.0007 Goddard Enterprises Limited 27-Apr-21 - - - $2.20 $2.20 - $2.10 $2.20 4,012 8,740 23-Apr-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0048 -0.0003 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.6411 5.6411 5.5283 0.0393 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 29-Apr-21 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $1.78 $2.00 56,258 13,474 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 1.0516 1.0516 1.0306 0.0147 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUND m 1.6443 1.6443 1.6114 0.0016 One Caribbean Media Limited 30-Mar-21 - - - $2.20 $2.20 - - $2.20 - 1,601 23-Apr-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.82 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - -- $2.26 $2.26 ---- - 23-Apr-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.74 0.00 23-Apr-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.99 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Mar-21 - - - $31.25 $31.25 - $31.35 - 100 - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $22.45 $22.60 $0.15 $20.75 - 10 - 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 21-Apr-21 $60.00 $60.00 $55.00 $60.00 250,000 20,000 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

Emera Incorporated - Directors have fixed March 22nd, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to Standard & Poors reaffirms receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on May 20th, 2021.

DIVIDEND DECLARATIONS Bermuda’s credit ratings Emera Deposit Receipt - Directors have declared a cash dividend of sixty-three point seven five (CDN $0.6375) cents per common RATINGS agency Standard report, that ‘the stable share to be paid on May 17th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on May 3rd, 2020. Registered holders of & Poors has reaffirmed outlook reflects our depositary receipts ("Depositary Receipts") issued pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated February 2nd, 2016 among Emera, the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. and registered and beneficial holders of depositary Bermuda’s A+ sovereign expectation that Bermuda’s receipts from time to time, are entitled to receive, in proportion to the number of Depositary Receipts held by them, respectively, a credit and long and short moderate net general distribution in the amount of any cash received by the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. (net of any applicable withholding term debt ratings, the finance government debt burden, taxes) in connection with the Dividend (the "Distribution"). minister announced last favourable external position BSE NOTICES night. (including current account COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE The reaffirmation of surpluses), and political Bermuda’s A+ long-term stability will help contain the Effective April 19th, 2021, the offices of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central Securities Depository sovereign credit and senior negative impact of a sharp Inc. (BCSDI) have reopened. Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. unsecured debt ratings as GDP contraction in 2020 and Kindly note that mandatory digital temperature checks and hand sanitizing for all persons entering the building will be enforced. These well as its A-1 short-term set the stage for economic checks will be conducted on both staff and clients alike by trained personnel. While we acknowledge that every person with fever may rating and its AA+ transfer recovery’.” not be COVID-19 positive and that some individuals may present without symptoms, please note that any person with a temperature and convertibility Maintaining a stable debt reading of 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) or over will be denied entry to conduct business within our offices. assessment as “Stable” were rating helps Bermuda to We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding, however, we must emphasize that this is a necessary step for the protection welcomed by Curtis borrow money at competitive of staff and clients alike. Dickinson, who was forced to rates. A downgrade would TRADING SUSPENSION take on $360 million in added force it to pay more interest debt due to the Covid-19 on new debt or on rolling The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section pandemic. over borrowing when it comes 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were Dickinson stated: “I am due. suspended effective December 10th, 2019. delighted that S&P has Dickinson added: “In The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section reaffirmed Bermuda’s A+ addition, S&P has recognised 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited long-term sovereign credit that Bermuda benefits from were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. and senior unsecured debt institutional stability and its The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way ratings and that the outlook track record of implementing of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor remains stable. reforms to ensure sustainable Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. “It is noteworthy that S&P public finances and economic has highlighted, in their growth over the long term.” Barbados Advocate ‘Barbados has to earn more foreign exchange’ – Page 5 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS

A view of the Sagicor building. INSET: Dodridge Miller SAGICOR REMAINS Financial analyst sheds light on Company reports economic decline more liquid equity COMMITTED THE magnitude of the 2021 first quarter economic decline in Barbados translates IT is too early to assess their presence in the new market and That fourth quarter performance saw into lower levels of business, higher the full impact of Sagicor engaging new investors while Sagicor returning to a pre-pandemic unemployment and less tax revenues for Financial Corporation’s leveraging its brand leadership and earnings pattern delivering Government. listing on the Toronto Stock reputation in Sagicor’s home markets, US$29 million in net income to This is the view of Bruce Hennis, a Exchange. and executing their purpose driven shareholders. financial analyst and who is a member of However, Sagicor’s President and strategy. However, he indicated that overall, the economic team of the Peoples Party Group CEO Dodridge Miller, has Miller said that the Group’s strong the Group recorded a loss for the year for Development and Democracy. revealed that the listing has exposed financial position helped it to maintain to shareholders of US$4 million, driven The economy which is affected badly by the financial institution to a more and to improve its credit ratings during mainly by lower interest rates, the the COVID-19 pandemic declined by liquid equity capital market while also the year under review, validating that strengthening of actuarial reserves for almost 20 per cent between January and bringing in over $450 million in others view Sagicor as a resilient, well forward-looking assumptions and March this year,according to the Central additional capital and new long term capitalised and diversified in many increased credit losses. Bank of Barbados. investments to Sgaicor. lines of business. “From the balance sheet perspective, In an assessment of the performance, Miller delivered a message to “For the financial year 2020, we ended the year with assets of Hennis compared for example, the output shareholders in which he spoke of the Sagicor earned total revenues of US$9.3 billion, an increase of US$500 of tourism in the first quarter of 2019 opportunities for Sgaicor as well as the US$1.9 billion, despite the challenging million as we continue to focus on with that of first quarter 2021. challenges which the Group environment,” the President and CEO growth and internal capital In the first quarter of 2019, which was experienced as a result of COVID-19. said. optimisation,” said Miller. a pre-COVID period, tourism output was The pandemic was a challenge for the “After three quarters of slower new He believes that they are well estimated at $414 million, whereas for financial services firm as it was for the business, we were pleased to see some positioned to execute their “growth the same period in 2021 the amount was world, the official reminded. recovery of the business in the fourth plans with a strong foundation of $13 million. He told shareholders that the Sagicor quarter and with stronger business financial operational and risk (Please See Page 6 for Hennis’ Group is very committed to building across all segments,” he stated. management strength”. report).

Printed and Published by ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC. Fontabelle, St. Michael. Telephone 467-2000, Fax 434-2020/434-1000 The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 13

Arrests in Paris as thousands join May 1 protests across France PARIS, France – Hooded, black-clad nothing as reflected in the unemploy- demonstrators clashed with police in ment insurance reform plan that we Paris on Saturday as thousands of want scrapped,” Philippe Martinez, head people joined traditional May Day of the CGT labour union said. protests across France to demand social About 300 rallies were organised in and economic justice and voice their cities including Lyon, Nantes, Lille opposition to government plans and Toulouse. to change unemployment benefits. Far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon Police made 46 arrests in the capital, and far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who where garbage bins were set on fire and both plan to challenge President the windows of a bank branch were Emmanuel Macron in next year's smashed, momentarily delaying the presidential election, attended May Day march. events. More than 106,000 people marched “My wish for the working class is that throughout France, including 17,000 in it can be free of the fear of being Paris, according to the Interior Ministry. unemployed,” Melenchon told a march Trade unionists were joined by mem- in Lille, adding he hoped to return to the bers of the “Yellow Vest” movement, northern city as president. which triggered a wave of anti-govern- Le Pen, who had earlier laid a wreath Police officers walk past a fire during a left-wing May Day demonstration, as the ment protests three years ago, and by in Paris at the statue of Joan of Arc, her spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues in Berlin, Germany, workers from sectors hit hard by party’s nationalist symbol, warned of May 1, 2021. pandemic restrictions such as culture. “total chaos” if Macron is re-elected. Marchers, most wearing masks in line Macron, the former investment banker with coronavirus rules, carried banners who won the presidency in 2017 promis- reading, “Dividends, not unemployment ing a new way of doing politics, has seen Police, protesters benefits are the income of lazy people,” his reform agenda become bogged down and, “We want to live, not survive”. in fights with unions, while the pandemic The Prefecture de Police, which has halted his planned pension system deployed 5,000 officers in Paris, said it overhaul. clash during May Day had prevented 'Black Bloc' anarchists France, which has the world's eighth- from forming a group. Three police highest tally of coronavirus deaths, will officers were injured in Paris. start unwinding its third pandemic “Loads of money is going to those who lockdown restrictions from today after rallies in Berlin have plenty and less for those who have a fall in infection rates. BERLIN, Germany – Around 30,000 coronavirus pandemic.Turnout was much protesters took to the streets during higher than last year, even though social May Day rallies in Berlin on distancing requirements remain in place. Saturday, police said, adding nearly Protests hit other European capitals 100 officers were injured when too, most notably Paris, where police made some of the demonstrations turned 46 arrests as garbage bins were set on fire violent. and the windows of a bank branch were Police made around 354 arrests during smashed. the demonstrations,which they said were In Berlin, police used water cannon to for physical assaults and trespassing. extinguish fires as protesters set “The violent riots that occurred is ablaze waste bins, barricades something that I very much regret,” and cars. Berlin’s head of police Barbara Slowik Demonstrations also took place in told local broadcaster rbb24. several other German cities, including Some of the injuries occurred after some Hamburg and Leipzig, despite Europe’s demonstrators threw fireworks, bottles largest economy grappling with a third and rocks during protests over social wave of the pandemic. inequality. About 5,600 police were On Sunday, data from the Robert Koch deployed, and some responded with Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases pepper spray. showed that the number of confirmed The demonstrations were the second coronavirus cases in Germany increased People holding placards attend the traditional May Day labour union march, amid May Day protests since the start of the by 16,290 to 3,416,822. the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Lille, France, May 1, 2021. Bullfighting back in Madrid as heated election campaign ends

MADRID – Bullfighting with fans Spain’s southern region of Andalusía with While not intervening to stop the bull- There won’t be a problem.” returned to Madrid on Sunday for the 50% occupancy following the country’s fight, the national health authorities have Díaz Ayuso is hoping that her conserva- first time since the start of the pandemic, complete lockdown during the worst repeatedly urged regions not to risk mass tive Popular Party will win an outright with several thousand spectators allowed months of the pandemic. contagion by allowing large events.Soccer majority. If she falls short, her chances of into the Spanish capital’s Las Ventas ring. But the timing of bullfight in Madrid matches are still played at empty staying in power would depend on Regional authorities allowed the event, has political implications. Besides falling stadiums. the far-right Vox party. The campaign whose earnings are to help the bullfight- on a regional holiday,it coincides with the The Health Ministry on Friday has been marred by death ing industry,which like all activities that final day of official campaigning for indicated that Madrid has the second- threats sent by letter for candidates, rely on live audiences has been hard hit Madrid’s important regional election highest infection rate of Spain’s regions including Ayuso, and ministers of by coronavirus lockdowns and restric- tomorrow. at 384 cases per 100 000 inhabitants over Spain’s government that police are tions. The region’s conservative chief, Isabel 14 days. investigating. Regional authorities put a limit of Díaz Ayuso, is running for re-election in Díaz Ayuso defended her decision by The left-wing’s chances of reclaiming 40% occupancy for Madrid’s first bullfight an early election she called seeking to appealing to the central theme of her power in the Madrid region for the first in over a year, meaning up to 6,000 fans increase her power in the regional campaign: “liberty.” time in over two decades hinge on a could attend. Fans had assigned seats legislature. Díaz Ayuso has “When there are bullfights, there massive turnout Tuesday and coopera- and had to wear face masks at all made the election a referendum is liberty,” Díaz Ayuso said last month. tion by the three leftist parties, including times. The lineup included top bullfight- on her pushback against the stricter Last week she added, “It is very Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s ers Enrique Ponce and Julián “El Juli” health restrictions imposed or important for those who like bullfighting Socialists.A heavy defeat for the left-wing López. recommended by Spain’s left-wing to see them as they wish. The spectators in Madrid would hurt Sánchez’s national Last summer, bullfighting returned in central government. are going to be in the best hands possible. ruling coalition. 14 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Bulgaria faces fresh elections as Socialists North Korea reacts refuse to form furiously to US a government president Biden’s BULGARIA will head to certainty could hamper the the polls in July after the European Union’s poorest Socialists on Saturday member state’s ability to became the third political restart its pandemic bat- ‘big blunder’ party to refuse to lead a tered economy and effec- NORTH KOREA has re- Another unnamed for- government following last tively tap the EU’s 750 bil- acted furiously to the US eign ministry spokesper- month’s parliamentary lion euro ($896 billion) president’s description of son said the US had election. coronavirus Recovery the country as a security insulted the dignity of The Socialists, who lost Fund. threat, calling it a “big North Korea’s leadership almost half of their seats in The Socialists’ decision Bulgarian President Rumen Radev gives a mandate blunder”. by criticising the the April 4 election, said it comes after both the cen- to form a new government to former Bulgarian for- The response came after country’s human rights would be impossible to tre-right GERB party of eign minister Daniel Mitov of centre-right GERB Joe Biden addressed situation. build a working majority outgoing, three-time Prime party in Sofia, Bulgaria, April 20, 2021. Congress for the first time The criticism is a provo- in a fragmented parlia- Minister Boyko Borissov last week, saying nuclear cation that shows the US ment and would return the and the new anti-estab- two smaller anti-graft in the parliament showed programmes in North is “girding itself up for an mandate immediately lishment ITN party,led by groupings, though the political immaturity, they Korea and Iran are a “se- all-out showdown” with after the president hands TV host and singer Slavi three together lack could not overcome their rious threat to America’s North Korea, the it to them on May 5. Trifonov, both gave up on a majority in the ego,” Socialist leader security and world secu- spokesperson said, adding President Rumen Radev attempts to form a govern- chamber. Kornelia Ninova told re- rity”. that it will be answered faces having to dissolve ment. The Socialists, who have porters after a party meet- He promised to work accordingly. parliament, appoint an in- Popular anger against campaigned to unseat ing. with allies to address the On Friday the White terim administration and widespread corruption Borissov’s GERB, said the “In this situation, de- problems through “diplo- House said that a review call snap polls within two after almost a decade of three new parties have re- spite our will for a change macy and stern deter- of US policy towards months – most likely on Borissov’s governance has fused to enter into alliance a government led by us, rence”. North Korea had been July 11. boosted support for the with them. even a temporary one, is But Kwon Jong Gun, a completed. Prolonged political un- anti-elite ITN party and “The three new parties impossible.” senior North Korean Press secretary Jen Foreign Ministry official, Psaki did not give details was unimpressed, saying of the review’s findings talk of diplomacy was but she said the Biden ad- being used to cover up US ministration would seek a PM Modi’s ruling party loses hostile acts. middle ground between In a statement reported Donald Trump’s “grand by news agency KCNA, he bargain” and Barack said, “(Biden’s) statement Obama’s “strategic crucial Indian state election clearly reflects his intent patience” approaches. to keep enforcing the hos- Trump met North THE incumbent chief and voting in which large only woman chief minister. ond wave is having on tile policy toward the Korean leader Kim Jong minister’s party in crowds flouted rules on Despite the defeat, support for him and his DPRK as it had been done Un a number of times dur- India’s West Bengal social distancing and Modi’s Bharatiya Janata right-wing BJP. by the US for over half a ing his presidency, each state has defeated mask-wearing. Party(BJP) made substan- Banerjee, a sharp critic century. time claiming to have Prime Minister Mamata Banerjee, 66, is tial gains, making it the of Modi, largely conducted “It is certain that the made major progress. Narendra Modi’s party set to be the chief of main opposition party as a one-woman campaign to US chief executive made a But no deal was ever in a state election held West Bengal for the third its tally in the state retain power by leading big blunder in the light of reached. as the coronavirus pan- time after her Trinamool legislature went to nearly scores of public rallies. the present-day view- North Korea is reluc- demic surged to crisis Congress party (TMC) won 80 seats from just three “It is a stupendous per- point. tant to surrender the nu- levels. a two-thirds majority, seats won in 2016. formance by Mamata “Now that the keynote clear weapons it sees as Modi has been criticised taking more than Modi, his colleagues and Banerjee because Modi of the US new DPRK necessary for its own pro- for focusing on the elec- 200 seats in the 294-seat regional politicians cam- was determined to win policy has become clear, tection – especially with- tions instead of making the state assembly, election paigned aggressively in Bengal, but it’s clear that we will be compelled to out some form of sanctions pandemic his top priority. commission officials said. five state elections despite his entire political machin- press for corresponding relief. Some expert blame the Final counting for some the pandemic. The results ery and strategy was measures, and with time The US had wanted federal election commis- seats was still underway. are seen as a test of the unable to defeat her,” said the US will find itself steps towards denucleari- sion for allowing rallies Banerjee is now India’s impact the pandemic’s sec- Diptendu Bhaskar,a polit- in a very grave situation.” sation before committing ical analyst in Kolkata, to the easing of West Bengal’s capital. sanctions. In Assam state, the BJP Markus Garlauskas, a managed to retain politi- senior fellow with the cal power. In Tamil Nadu, Atlantic Council and for- the DMK – the main mer US national intelli- regional opposition party gence officer for North – secured victory Korea, said Pyongyang’s In Kerala state, the rul- words are a reminder that ing lefist political party the challenge is about was set to form govern- more than terminology or ment while the BJP led- tactics. alliance won no seats. In “The differences be- the union territory of tween the Kim regime Puducherry, the All India and the United States are NR Congress-led alliance much more fundamental,” was leading in 14 of the he said. 30 seats assembly. He added that Kim does Most of the votes were not intend to give up nu- cast in March, but polling clear weapons or reform in some constituencies North Korea’s political continued through April, system but it is difficult to just as India started to Kim Jong Un has shown see how the US could A supporter of the Chief Minister of West Bengal state and the Chief of detect thousands of new little inclination to give embrace a nuclear-armed Trinamool Congress (TMC) Mamata Banerjee, wearing a face shield with her coronavirus infections up his country’s nuclear North Korea that abuses image on it, gestures during celebrations after the initial poll results. everyday. weapons. human rights. The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 15

Tanzania’s new president Somalia’s plans income tax cut, parliament votes to cancel other economic changes presidential TANZANIA’S new President Samia Suluhu Hassan said on Saturday term extension the government would reduce the income tax rate by 1 percentage SOMALI lawmakers voted unanimously point to 8%, in the 2021/22 financial on Saturday to cancel a two-year presi- year beginning in July, and dential term extension they had approved also planned to remove last month, after clashes in the capital “unfriendly taxes and charges Mogadishu between factions of the to Tanzanians”. security forces, which are divided over Hassan, who took office in March the issue. following the death of President John In a speech following the vote in the Magufuli, said in a Labour Day speech in lower house of parliament, Prime the northern Mwanza region that the Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble or- Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, COVID-19 pandemic had hurt global dered the army to return to barracks and president of Somalia. economic growth, and that Tanzania’s urged politicians to avoid inciting economy had not been spared. violence. prepare the plan for elections, and Her remarks were the latest acknowl- The political crisis has raised fears that thanked the president and the parlia- edgement of the coronavirus, in stark al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab insurgents ment. contrast to the denials of her predecessor could exploit a security vacuum if state Mohamed’s term expired in February, Magufuli, who was Africa’s most forces split along clan lines and turn on but without a new crop of lawmakers, prominent COVID-19 sceptic. Last each other. The group has taken over at parliament was unable to choose a month, Hassan announced she was form- least one Somali town in the past week as president. ing a committee to research whether heavily armed fighters moved from the The term extension was approved by Tanzansia should follow the course taken countryside into the capital city. the lower house last month but rejected by by the rest of the world against the President Mohamed Abdullahi the Senate, provoking the crisis that has pandemic. Mohamed’s attempt to extend his term intensified in the past week. “Due to steps I’m planning to take by has also angered foreign donors, who have Between 60,000 and 100,000 people removing unfriendly taxes and charges backed his government in an attempt to were forced to flee their homes following to Tanzanians, tax revenues will decline bring stability to Somalia after more than clashes yesterday that stirred fears of for a short period and will later increase,” two decades as a failed state following a all-out war between heavily armed she said on Saturday. civil war that began in 1991. factions for and against the president. The new president has indicated in Saturday’s lower house vote was Rashid Abdi, a Nairobi-based independ- public remarks since she took office on broadcast on Somali television and came ent analyst, said the parliamentary vote March 19 that she will also seek shortly after Mohamed addressed and the president’s move towards holding to improve the investment climate in the parliament and said he was directing the elections appeared to be a good country of nearly 60 million people. Tanzania’s new President Samia prime minister to prepare to hold a compromise. Under Magufuli, foreign direct invest- Suluhu Hassan takes the oath of of- delayed parliamentary election. The US State Department, the EU ment plunged and investors complained fice following the death of her prede- Roble said in a Twitter post late on ambassador,and the Turkish foreign min- of a difficult business environment. cessor John Pombe Magufuli. Saturday that the government will “soon” istry praised Saturday’s developments.

Nigeria bans travellers from India, Brazil, Turkey over COVID-19 fears NIGERIA will ban travellers coming from India, Brazil and Turkey because of concerns about the rampant spread of coronavirus in those countries, a presidential committee said yesterday. “Non-Nigerian passport holders and non-residents who visited Brazil, India or Turkey within Fourteen (14) days preced- ing travel to Nigeria, shall be denied entry into Nigeria,” Boss Mustapha, chairman of the presidential steering committee on COVID-19, said in a statement. The ban will take effect from May 4, the statement said. Nigeria announced 43 confirmed new coronavirus cases on Saturday, bringing its total to 165,153, with 2,063 deaths. The ban on travellers coming to Nigeria from India, Brazil and Turkey will take effect from May 4. Indian hospitals,morgues and cremato- riums have been overwhelmed as the their own to find medicines and oxygen. in the country are second only to the to curb a surge in coronavirus infections country has reported more than 300 000 In Brazil, new coronavirus cases have United States. and deaths, with the world's fourth high- daily cases for more than ten days fallen off a late-March peak, but remain Turkey imposed a nationwide “full lock- est number of cases and the worst on a straight. Many families have been left on high by historical standards.Total deaths down” on Thursday,lasting until May 17, per-capita basis among major nations. 16 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Apple accused of breaking EU law over App Store sales fees TECH giant Apple has been alternative deals on their iOS app, a prac- charged with breaking EU competi- tice that no store in the world allows. tion rules over its App Store rules “Once again, they want all the benefits on in-app payments in the music of the App Store but don’t think they streaming market. should have to pay anything for that.The In a statement of objections sent to the Commission’s argument on Spotify’s be- company,the European Commission took half is the opposite of fair competition.” Amazon shares have risen 46% in the issue with Apple forcing other music In September, it took Apple and the last year. streamers using the App Store to process Irish government to the highest court in in-app payments through Apple’s own the European Union for what Brussels system, from which the firm takes deems unfair taxation practices. a commission. The EU ruled in 2016 that Apple had Amazon’s profits The EU said these rules “distorted to repay 13 billion euros (£11.3 billion) in competition” because other apps were unpaid taxes to the Irish government, more than trying to compete with the Apple Music after the latter granted “undue tax streaming platform. Spotify accused Apple of ‘anti-compet- benefits”. European Commission executive itive behaviour’ with its App Store. Apple and the Irish government have tripled in first vice-president Margrethe Vestager appealed the decision and the case tweeted: “Our preliminary conclusion: Spotify’s head of global affairs and chief continues. Apple is in breach of EU competition law. legal officer Horacio Gutierrez said: In 2017, an investigation by the BBC three months “Apple Music compete with other music “Ensuring the iOS platform operates and The Guardian claimed that Apple streaming services. But Apple charges fairly is an urgent task with far-reaching moved funds to the Channel Islands after of 2021 high commission fees on rivals in the App implications. a crackdown on tax laws in Ireland. store and forbids them to inform of alter- “The European Commission’s state- Apple said at the time: "When Ireland AMAZON shares have risen 46% in the native subscription options. Consumers ment of objections is a critical step toward changed its tax laws in 2015, we complied last year – fuelled by rising demand losing out.” holding Apple accountable for its by changing the residency of our Irish for home deliveries as a result of The case comes after fellow music anti-competitive behaviour, ensuring subsidiaries and we informed Ireland, the pandemic. streaming giant Spotify lodged a meaningful choice for all consumers and the European Commission and the Amazon’s profit in the first three months complaint, which led to the commission a level playing field for app developers.” United States. of 2021 came in at $8.1 billion (£5.8bn) – opening an investigation last year. In response to the European “The changes we made did not reduce more than triple what it was in the Apple has the chance to reply to the Commission, Apple said: “Spotify has our tax payments in any country.” same period last year. EU’s objections in writing and to request become the largest music subscription It added: "We understand that some The online marketplace is among the an oral hearing to present its case. service in the world, and we’re proud would like to change the tax system so businesses that have thrived during the The company could face a large fine for the role we played in that. multinationals' taxes are spread various government lockdowns aimed at and be forced to change its policies if it “Spotify does not pay Apple any com- differently across the countries where limiting the spread of the coronavirus. fails to convince regulators. mission on over 99% of their subscribers, they operate, and we know that As many millions of people were The commission said it was concerned and only pays a 15% commission on those reasonable people can have different forced to stay in their homes, Amazon that Apple applied restrictions on app remaining subscribers that they acquired views about how this should work in the was relied on for the delivery developers which prevented them from through the App Store. future. of supplies. informing iPhone and iPad users of alter- “At the core of this case is Spotify’s “At Apple we follow the laws, and if the Since the pandemic began, the business native and potentially cheaper choices. demand they should be able to advertise system changes, we will comply.” has posted four consecutive record quar- terly profits, attracted more than 200 mil- lion Prime loyalty subscribers, and recruited more than 500 000 employees to keep up with the demand. London City Revenue was up 44% to $108.5 billion (£77 billion), making Amazon one of just four US companies to have reported becomes first quarterly revenue above $100 billion (the others being Apple, Exxon Mobil and major airport Walmart). Sales at Amazon’s ad business were up 77% and its cloud-computing business – to control air which helps power the online operations of Netflix, McDonald’s and others – grew by 32%. traffic remotely Brian Olsavsky, Amazon’s chief finan- cial officer, said many businesses want to LONDON CITY AIRPORT has become outsource their technology infrastructure the first major international airport to to Amazon Web Services. control air traffic remotely. “We expect this trend to continue as we Planes are being guided from a control move into the post-pandemic recovery,” he tower more than 70 miles away. said. A 50m-tall tower has been built at the But COVID-19 has brought extra costs: airport, equipped with 14 high-definition The company has purchased cargo planes cameras which will feed video and audio The new technology is being viewed as a major step forward in aviation. and new warehouses to get its items closer back to the remote-control centre in to customers and hasten delivery. Hampshire, where air traffic controller screens which are overlaid with additional backup”. Amazon has also faced activism from NATS is based. information such as radar and weather The new technology is being viewed as within its workforce, recently seeing The technology was developed by Saab data. a major step forward in aviation. a unionisation effort defeated at a Digital Air Traffic Solutions in Sweden, According to cybersecurity expert Holly Alan Newbold is the Global Digital warehouse in Alabama. where it was initially tested. Williams, there are some security risks Aviation leader at the engineering The push for unionisation was the It marks a major change in step for the with controlling air traffic remotely, consultancy firm Arup. He believes that biggest in Amazon’s 26-year history and it aviation industry, where planes are but they can be managed by “from a progress point of view it’s was only the second time such an effort generally instructed to take off and land by ensuring a rigorous testing process is absolutely on the money”. from within the business had reached operators based in the airport. implemented. Airports, he said, will need to be voting stage. The airport’s chief operating officer City Airport’s Ms FitzGerald said all the increasingly driven and informed by data, The criticisms of the company’s working Alison FitzGerald said the remote tower key components are replicated, so in the so it is vital operators have the “right environment appeared to prompt Bezos’ aims to improve efficiency and safety. “rare event there’s a failure of one partic- information at the touch of a button” to admission earlier this month: “We need The runways are viewed on panoramic ular part of the system, there’s always a reduce risk and improve resilience. to do a better job for our employees”. The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 17

Our children face wars over food and water, EU deputy warns

OLDER people will have to make sac- rifices in the fight against climate change or today’s children will face a future of fighting wars for water and food, the EU’s deputy chief has warned. Frans Timmermans, vice-president of the EU commission, said that if social Dry earth caused by extreme drought at a reservoir in Spain. policy and climate policy are not combined, to share fairly the costs and or in traditional economic circles,” Changing people’s lives today would be Timmermans acknowledged that some benefits of creating a low-carbon econ- Timmermans told the Guardian in an in- difficult, but the benefits would be felt by people in traditional industries would omy, the world will face a backlash from terview. “Those interests combine with today’s children, he added. “This for have to change, and said the main role for people who fear losing jobs or income, the fear of negative social consequences. politics is a huge, huge challenge.We need politicians was to make this easier. stoked by populist politicians and fossil Then you could get a counter-momentum to recapture that feeling of a purpose – Reskilling people in industries such as fuel interests. where people say, ‘Hang on, not too fast, doing something not for yourself, but for fossil fuel and power generation would be He said, “It’s not just an urgent matter people cannot stomach this.’” others, which I think has always led to so- key. – it’s a difficult matter. We have to He added,“Those of us who understand ciety being at its best.” He pointed to Poland, which is highly transform our economy. There are huge we need to move fast should make the so- Any sacrifice would be mild for most, dependent on coal.“They have a very high benefits, but it’s a huge challenge. The cial issue the pivotal issue in all of this. I such as the inconvenience of having a level of engineering, of education – there’s biggest threat is the social one. If we don’t really call upon all of those in the climate house renovated to low-carbon standards, a huge potential there [in a low-carbon fix this, our children will be waging wars movement to join me in focusing on the or switching to electric transport, and eat- economy] for a country like Poland. And over water and food. There is no doubt social issue more than they’ve done in ing less meat. But for some it could involve there simply isn’t any future in coal. The in my mind.” the past. Because this could become a change of job or living patterns. longer you protract [the change], the more Frans Timmermans: ‘Those of us who the biggest stumbling block.” “We’re not asking people to go back to painful and the more costly it will be.” understand we need to move fast should He warned that sacrifices would be 1930s situations, we’re not asking people Timmermans has a pivotal role this make the social issue the pivotal issue needed from the older generation to to live in caves and munch grass. It’s year, within the EU and globally, as he in all of this’. Photograph: Reuters ensure that young people can live in a taking perhaps one or two steps back to be leads the bloc’s green deal, intended to Tackling climate change will be many safe climate. Today’s older people were able to jump much further in to the transform the European economy to a times cheaper than the disruption that the beneficiaries of a previous genera- future.” low-carbon footing, and leads the bloc’s global heating will cause, as well as bring- tion’s sacrifice, and were now being called Timmermans’ warnings reflect a grow- climate efforts at Cop26, vital UN climate ing benefits to health, and the costs have on to make changes themselves, he said. ing concern among climate experts that talks to be hosted by the UK in Glasgow fallen dramatically in recent years. “Sometimes I wonder whether we are politicians have failed to show people the this November. However, the shift away from fossil fuels aware of the transformation we’re head- benefits of a low-carbon society, which On Thursday, he travelled to London will mean the end of some traditional jobs ing to,and how profound it is. It’s an effort include cleaner air and water,more livable for his first official visit outside Brussels such as coalmining, and the costs of comparable to restructuring after a cities, and higher levels of health and since the pandemic lockdowns began, with change will fall unequally on different violent conflict. I used to talk to my grand- wellbeing, as well as defusing the climate a four-hour meeting in Downing Street sectors of society unless politicians step in. parents and my parents about how they crisis. Politicians, including Donald with Alok Sharma, the UK’s Cop26 pres- “Where I see a huge risk is that you get saw this,after the war.They said,‘Well, we Trump and Republicans in the US, have ident and host of the talks.He is in weekly an alliance between those who don’t want sacrificed a lot because we knew our presented tackling climate breakdown as contact with John Kerry,climate envoy to change because they see their interest children would be better off.’ And this a cost, and many people are fearful for US president Joe Biden, and with China’s affected, whether it’s in fossil fuels feeling is not there yet in our society.” their jobs. top climate official, Xie Zhenhua. Brazilian Amazon released more carbon than it absorbed over past 10 years THE Brazilian Amazon released nearly tion – through fires and clear-cutting – Using new methods of analysing satel- 20% more carbon dioxide into the atmos- increased nearly four-fold in 2019 com- lite data developed at the University of phere over the past decade than it ab- pared with either of the two previous Oklahoma, the international team of sorbed, according to a startling report that years, from about 1m hectares (2.5m researchers showed for the first time that shows humanity can no longer depend on acres) to 3.9m hectares (9.6m acres). degraded forests were a more significant the world’s largest tropical forest to help “Brazil saw a sharp decline in the source of planet-warming CO2 emissions absorb manmade carbon pollution. application of environmental protection that outright deforestation. From 2010 through 2019, Brazil’s policies after the change of government Over the same 10-year period, degrada- Amazon basin gave off 16.6bn tonnes of in 2019,” the INRA said in a statement. tion – caused by fragmentation, selective CO2, while drawing down only 13.9bn Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro was cutting, or fires that damage but do not tonnes,researchers reported Thursday in sworn into office on January 1, 2019. destroy trees – caused three times more the journal Nature Climate Change. Terrestrial ecosystems have been a emissions than outright destruction The study looked at the volume of CO2 crucial ally as the world struggles to curb of forests. absorbed and stored as the forest grows, CO2 emissions, which topped 40bn tonnes The data examined in the study only against the amounts released back into in 2019. covers Brazil, which holds about 60% the atmosphere as it has been burned Over the past half-century, plants and of the Amazonian rainforest. down or destroyed. soil have consistently absorbed about Taking the rest of region into account, “We half-expected it, but it is the first 30% of those emissions, even as those “the Amazon basin as a whole is probably time that we have figures showing that emissions increased by 50% over that (carbon) neutral”, said Wigneron. the Brazilian Amazon has flipped, and is period. Oceans have also helped, soaking “But in the other countries with now a net emitter,” said co-author Jean- up more than 20%. Amazon rainforest, deforestation is on the Co-author Jean-Pierre Wigneron, a sci- Pierre Wigneron, a scientist at France’s The Amazon basin contains about half rise too, and drought has become more entist at France’s National Institute National Institute for Agronomic of the world’s tropical rainforests, which intense.” for Agronomic Research (INRA). Research (INRA). are more effective at soaking up and stor- Climate change looms as a serious “We don’t know at what point the ing carbon than other types of vegetation. threat, and could – above a certain thresh- This would have devastating conse- changeover could become irreversible,” he If the region becomes a net source old of global heating – see the continent’s quences not only to the region, which is told AFP in an interview. rather than a “sink” of CO2, tackling the rainforest tip into a much drier savan- host to a significant percentage of the The study also showed that deforesta- climate crisis will be that much harder. nah state, recent studies have shown. world’s wildlife, but globally as well. 18 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Oscar-winning Actress Olympia Dukakis dies

US actress Olympia New York City,” Apollo Dukakis, who won an Dukakis wrote on Oscar for her role in the Facebook. 1987 romantic comedy “After many months of “Moonstuck”, has died failing health she is fi- aged 89, her family have nally at peace and with announced. her [husband] Louis.” Her brother wrote she Olympia Dukakis (R) starred alongside Julia Roberts was “at peace” after suf- From stage to screen and Daryl Hannah in Steel Magnolias. fering ill health. Olympia Dukakis was Dukakis had a long and born in 1931 in Lowell, pelled her to stardom and three times for an Emmy distinguished career in Massachusetts to Greek won her a Best for her TV work – “Lucky theatre, both as a per- immigrants. Her cousin Supporting Actress Day” (1991), “More Tales former and as a director. Michael was Democratic Oscar. of the City” (1998) and But in her 50s she candidate for in the US Playing an eye-rolling, “Joan of Arc” (1999). starred in a series of hit presidential election, los- interfering Italian matri- Looking back on her comedies on screen, in- ing to George HW Bush. arch, in one stand-out long career in a recent in- cluding an award-win- Dukakis studied per- scene she tells her 37- terview, she said she was ning turn as Cher’s forming arts at Boston year-old on screen daugh- encouraged by how mother in Moonstruck. University, moving to ter Cher “your life’s going things have improved for That run – in the late New York in the late down the toilet”. women. 1980s – also included 1950s. She starred in Despite the Oscar, and “I think things are fi- roles in “Steel dozens of plays on and off critical acclaim, she said nally moving in the right Magnolias”, “Working Broadway, as well as di- she was taken aback, not direction, both for women Girl” and “Look Who’s recting and teaching. considering the part one and for minorities. We are Talking”. In 1961 she met actor- of her more important far from reaching our Other key roles were as producer Louis Zorich. roles. goal but there’s a forward a secondary school head She had been cast as a “All of the attention I movement that’s real and teacher in 1995’s “Mr married woman in a play was getting was lovely, of strong,” she told the Irish Holland’s Opus” and as a and Zorich auditioned for course, but I was more News. transgender landlady in the part of her husband. than a little confused “You’re seeing more the TV series “Tales of the He didn’t get it – but they about why it had come at women as directors and City”, whose fourth series got married for real the this point, and with this decision-makers and premiered on Netflix in following year. role, which, to my mind, that’s a great thing. I’m 2019. Dukakis had several was not the greatest part happy that I’ve lived a “My beloved sister, roles on the big and small I had ever played,” she long enough life so I could Olympia Dukakis, passed screen but it was said. witness the growth that Bridge away this morning in Moonstruck that pro- She was nominated has occurred.” The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 19 SPORTS Man United’s game off after fans storm stadium MANCHESTER, around the time the game England – Anti-owner- was due to start, United ship protests by said the game was post- Manchester United poned “due to safety and fans forced the post- security considerations ponement of Sunday’s around the protest” after Premier League game discussions with police, au- against Liverpool as thorities and the league. supporters stormed the “Our fans are passion- stadium and reached ate about Manchester the pitch, while thou- United, and we completely sands of others gath- acknowledge the right to Fans move barriers outside the ground as they let off flares whilst protesting against the Glazer family, ered outside Old free expression and peace- owners of Manchester United, before their Premier League match against Liverpool at Old Trafford, Trafford to demand the ful protest,” United said in Manchester, England yesterday. Glazer family owner- a statement.“However,we ship sell the club. regret the disruption to the acts of violence, criminal loaded debt onto the club. a tripod from the interview were among six Premier Long-running anger team and actions which damage and trespass, es- “Get out of our club,” zone. League clubs that tried to against the American own- put other fans, staff, and pecially given the associ- fans chanted as flares Police on horseback later form an exclusive ers has boiled over after the police in danger. We ated COVID-19 breaches. were set off. “We want cleared protesting fans European Super League they were part of the failed thank the police for their Fans have many channels Glazers out.” from outside the stadium, along with three clubs attempt to take United support and will assist by which to make their Fans found a way into with glass bottles being each from Spain and Italy. into a European Super them in any subsequent views known, but the ac- the stadium and also thrown in brief clashes. Widespread opposition League. Supporters have investigations.” tions of a minority seen climbed onto vantage Some fans moved back to a quickly ended the project, been kept out of games due The Premier League, today have no justification. points next to turnstile en- main road near the sta- with all six English teams to the coronavirus pan- which was yet to announce “We sympathize with trances. dium with police forming a backing out within 48 demic. a new date for the match, the police and stewards Supporters wore green- line to stop them return- hours of the announce- United and Liverpool expressed concern about who had to deal with a and-gold scarves and also ing. ment. players were unable to the disorder. dangerous situation that set off flares in the colors of If United had lost the The “Big 6” clubs have travel to the stadium “The security and safety should have no place in the club’s 1878 formation. planned game, been in damage control where there were clashes of everyone at Old Trafford football.” More than 100 fans got in- Manchester City would since, offering various briefly between fans and remains of paramount im- The Glazers, who also side the stadium and some have won the Premier forms of apologies and the police under a shower portance,” the Premier own the NFL’s Tampa Bay could be seen from win- League title. United is the statements of regret, while of glass bottles as flares League said in a state- Buccaneers, have declined dows waving down to pro- record 20-time English fans long frustrated with were sent off. ment.“We understand and to engage with fans since testers. Corner flags were champion but hasn’t lifted billionaire owners have Although the crowds respect the strength of buying United in 2005 in a held aloft and one sup- the trophy since 2013. called for wholesale were later dispersed feeling but condemn all leveraged takeover that porter was seen throwing United and Liverpool changes. Pepe’s penalty gives Arsenal hope

NICOLAS PEPE’S sec- They appeared to be second yellow for a late time for Arteta, with the their opponent. though VAR backed up the ond-half penalty gave sinking without trace tackle on Saka. Gunners trailing 2-0 after Samuel Chukwueze was on-field official. Arsenal renewed hope of when Manu Trigueros The ‘Yellow Submarine’, a half in which they were allowed to carry the ball It could have been even reaching the Europa fired in an early low, an- managed by ex-Gunners out-thought and out- too far into the box to tee better for the Gunners, but League final despite a gled drive for the home Unai Emery, will go into classed, with their only up the first goal for substitute Pierre-Emerick semi-final first-leg loss at side before Raul Albiol the second leg on top, but fleeting positive moment Trigueros after just five Aubameyang was denied Villarreal as both sides fin- slammed home at the back facing the prospect that a penalty overturned by minutes. Even more crim- by a fine save from ished with 10 men. post following Gerard just one unanswered con- VAr for handball against inal was the lack of mark- Geronimo Rulli, leaving With the Gunners trail- Moreno’s flick-on from a cession will send them out. Pepe in the build-up. ing that allowed Moreno Pepe’s goal as their sole re- ing 2-0 and a man down corner. Defeat in this tie would to flick the ball on for ward. following Dani Ceballos’ Ceballos’ red card with Arsenal down but not likely prompt a new level Albiol to score the second. Pepe has not always sending off, Pepe stepped 30 minutes left, courtesy out of soul-searching at the Chasing that crucial stood out as the man for up and fired home a pre- of a second booking for Emery is all too familiar club, who currently sit away goal, they could ill- the big occasion during his cious away goal from the standing on the boot of with the regular inquests 10th in the Premier afford Ceballos’ discipli- time at Arsenal, but with a spot after Bukayo Saka Daniel Parejo, looked to that greet Arsenal’s fail- League and need to tri- nary lapse, and it almost goal in each of his last had been tripped in the have sealed their fate. ures on the pitch from his umph in this competition proved terminal to their three Europa League box. But Bernd Leno pro- 18 months in charge of the to extend their record of hopes with Moreno twice games and six in total in It means Mikel Arteta’s duced two good saves to club as successor to Arsene appearing in continental seeing efforts saved by this season’s competition, side go into next keep the home side at bay Wenger. competition to 26 succes- Leno in the aftermath. he is leading from the Thursday’s second leg before Pepe - playing as a It was the heavy defeat sive seasons. To the credit of Arteta front in this campaign. with genuine hope of false nine - had his say. to Chelsea in the final of The Gunners’ current and his players, though, His strike on Thursday reaching a second Europa Villarreal may still have this competition in 2019 boss has built a more ro- they continued to push for could well be the most im- League final in three sea- fancied their chances of that was the beginning of bust, patient side than his a foothold and found it portant of the lot - a goal in sons and with the poten- scoring again, but this was the end for his largely dis- predecessor, but they when Saka went down in times of adversity that tial of qualifying for next hampered when they too appointing stint as boss. badly let themselves down the box. The amount of could well allow Arsenal season’s Champions were reduced to 10 men, as It felt like another in- with two defensive lapses contact from Trigueros’ to salvage something from League. 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COVID-19 infections. 1 bedroom apt $310,000 (negotiable) All of them assisted with Japan last month 6,646 sq ft $650,000 traffic control and wore declared a COVID-19 state Ocean City, St. Philip masks, with three of of emergency for the Gibbons, Ch Ch 6150 sq ft $123,000 them doing so in the city major population centres 3 bedroom plus of Amami and the other of Tokyo and Osaka and 2 bedroom apt Fortesque, St Philip Minister: Up to 1,000 fans three in the city of Kirish- two other areas set to last 9,835 sq ft Agricultural Land ima, said the organisers. until May 11 to contain a $675,000 (reduced) 494,500 sq ft $1,100,000 per court at French Open Earlier last month, two fourth wave of infections.

Breezy Hill, St Philip Silver Sands, EVERY Roland Garros The limit will be raised 3 bedroom, 2 bath Christ Church court will be allowed to be to 65% – 5s,000 fans – NOTICES NOTICES reduced to $298,000 7,129 sq ft $160,000 35% full with a limit of starting June 9 when the 1 000 spectators at the be- claycourt Grand Slam NOTICE BARBADOS Black Rock, St Michael Bushy Park, St. Philip ginning of the French quarter-finals get under- 3 bedroom, 1 bath 24,000 sq ft $190,000 Open amid an easing of way,Blanquer told France IN THE ESTATE OF JOANNE 6732 sq ft $360,000 COVID-19 restrictions, 3 TV channel. MARIA ATHERLEY, IN THE SUPREME COURT Apes Hill, St. James National Education, It marks an improve- (ALSO KNOWN AS JOANNE OF JUDICATURE Enterprise, Christ Church 31,000 sq ft upward Youth and Sports minis- ment on last year’s 3 bedroom, 2 bath ATHERLEY), DECEASED Large lots at $15 per sq ft ter Jean-Michel Blanquer delayed tournament when HIGH COURT 5062 sq ft said yesterday. a maximum of 1 000 $390,000 (reduced) PURSUANT to Section 31 of CIVIL DIVISION Mount Wilton, St. Thomas spectators were allowed 15,500 sq ft and 22,066 sq ft the Trustee Act Chapter 250 of (ADMINISTRATION) in the grounds of Roland the Laws of Barbados, NOTICE The Belle, St George $300,000 and $220,000 IN THE ESTATE OF PATRICK Plantation style House REAL ESTATE Garros. IS HEREBY GIVEN that any This year’s French person having a claim against, IVOR EZEKIEL LYNTON Standing on 4 acres Union, St. Philip Open, which was delayed or an interest in, the Estate of $1.1M 7560 sq ft Foul Bay, St. Philip by a week, is set to start Joanne Maria Atherley, (also $150,000 Approved for condos, on May 30. PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby Frere Pilgrim, 39,242 sq ft $1,600,000. known as Joanne Atherley), Christ Church Spectators will be Deceased late of No. 28 given that an application is Thorpes, St. James allowed back into arenas 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Dover, Christ Church Grazettes Court, Grazettes, in 11,376 sq ft with structure from May 19, President being made for the following two bedroom apartment. Hotel 18 rooms fully the parish of Saint Michael in $235,000 Emmanuel Macron said Grant of Administration namely:- 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 operational $2,950,000 neg Barbados and who died in on Thursday, providing Barbados on the 25th day of Cottage, St George under offer that the health situation March 2019 is hereby required Hanson Heights, St George 5000 sq ft Application for Grant of 8321 sq ft $595,000 Dalkeith, Christ Church does not deteriorate. to send particulars in writing of $110,000 (negotiable) Administration to the estate 17,371 sq ft approved for his or her claim or interest to the Personal Representative Ealing Grove, Morningside, St Philip shops and offices of PATRICK IVOR EZEKIEL NOTICES Arthur Leroy Atherley whose Christ Church 4567 sq ft $133,000 $495,000 LYNTON late of Cave Hill in the 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths address is C/o Dr. Erskine L. 9320 sq ft $565,000 Roebuck Street, Hinds Q.C., Attorney-at-Law parish of St. Lucy who died at Jupiter Gardens, St Peter NOTICE 38 Roebuck Street, 7312 sq ft Bridgetown the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on LOTS FOR SALE Shopping Mall/Office space Bridgetown, St. Michael $133,000 (negotiable) FIRSTCARIBBEAN the 18th day of December 2020 $8,100,000 negotiable BB11180, Barbados and to send Boarded Hall, INTERNATIONAL BANK such particulars not later than by MARIAN LYNTON the wife of Bagatelle, St. Thomas the 31st day of July, 2021 after Christ Church 62000 sq ft into 2 lots Batts Rock, St Michael the said deceased. I, Michel Douyon having made which date the Personal 10,429 sq ft $157,000 $520,000 each, or Guest House, 12,078 sq ft sworn deposition that the share Representative will distribute $1M for both $2,850,000 negotiable Westbury Road, St Michael certificate No. 3091 for eight the estate of the Deceased An application shall be 2,520 sq ft $45,360 Cane Garden, St Thomas hundred (800) common shares among the persons entitled Marley Vale, St Philip thereto having regard only to submitted to the Supreme Court 3.6 acres approved registered in the name of Michel 21,780 sq ft $275,000 the claims and interests fourteen (14) days from the date Goodland Gardens, Roadfront Douyon has been lost, and having made application to the Directors to of which the Personal Christ Church Sandford, St Philip $1,650,000 negotiable of Notice in the Official Gazette 9,605 sq ft $145,000 grant duplicate of same, notice is Representative shall then have 16,356 sq ft $300,000 had notice and the Personal and from the date of the second Fitts Village, St James hereby given that unless objection Representative will not, as Nursery Road, St Philip Guest House, 4 Suites is raised within two (2) weeks of the notice of advertisement. COMMERCIAL respects the property so distrib- 9,266 sq ft $139,000 6,135 sq ft date hereof, the duplicate share certificate asked for will be issued. uted, be liable to any person of Mount Standfast, St James $750,000 negotiable Dated this 2nd day Lashley Road, St Philip whose claim or interest the Two properties on Personal Representative shall 5,839 sq ft, $150,000 Mason Hill Street The City Dated this 3rd day of May 2021. of April, 2021 22,714 sq ft. not then have had notice. Asking $1,200,000 26,500 sq ft with buildings Salters, St George $4,000,000 negotiable By Order Dated this 26th day of April, 2021. …………………………………… 2 lots 32,760 sq ft, $230,000 Black Rock, St. Michael BARBADOS CENTRAL All enquiries to SECURITIES DEPOSITORY INC Clorinda Alleyne Warehouse/Storage Arthur Leroy Atherley Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 REGISTRAR 4000 sf space 23,861 sq ft Personal Representative Attorney-at-law for the Applicant 14,876 sq ft. $110,000 $900,000 (reduced) or (246) 247 4469 The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 • 21

NBA roundup: Pacers reach record heights in rout

DOMANTAS Sabonis largest margin in NBA had 26 points, 19 re- history -- Cleveland’s 68- bounds and a career- point win over Miami in high 14 assists to lead December 1991 -- with the the Indiana Pacers to a Pacers leading by as many 152-95 blowout win as 67 in the fourth quarter. over the host The Pacers’ Doug Oklahoma City McDermott tied his career Thunder on Saturday. high with 31 points, scor- The result was a home ing 16 with four 3-pointers Indiana Pacers forward Domantas Sabonis (11) is fouled by Oklahoma City Thunder guard Theo team’s largest margin of in the first quarter. Moses Maledon (11) on the way to the basket during the third quarter defeat in NBA history.The Brown led the Thunder Pacers’ 152 points were with 16 points. Utah Jazz regained the with 24.3 seconds remain- all five starters score in canned the deciding 3- the most in franchise his- top spot in the NBA with a ing that helped the Jazz double figures. Khem pointer with 9.3 seconds tory since the team moved Jazz 106, Raptors 102 win over Toronto in Salt win again without injured Birch contributed 17 left to play and Luka to the NBA in 1976-77. Bojan Bogdanovic Lake City. All-Star guards Donovan points and 10 rebounds. Doncic racked up his first The 57-point margin was scored 34 points, Rudy Gobert snagged 16 re- Mitchell (ankle) and Mike triple-double since March the largest loss in Gobert had a double-dou- bounds and scored 13 Conley (hamstring). Mavericks 125, 15 as Dallas outlasted vis- Thunder franchise history. ble and a couple of key late points, including a driving Fred VanVleet scored 30 Wizards 124 iting Washington. Indiana flirted with the buckets, and short-handed layup followed by a tip-in to lead Toronto, which had Dorian Finney-Smith Cont’d on next page 22 • Monday May 3, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Jokic makes statement in his MVP candidacy

Cont’d from previous seven rebounds. Nuggets 110, Clippers Golden State turned an added 18 points, and Max with 20 points, seven re- page The Pistons finished 13- 104 extended run into a road Strus had 17, including 14 bounds and nine assists. Dallas led by 12 points of-37 from outside but shot Nikola Jokic made an- victory over Houston. in the first half. Bam after one period and by just 22-of-54 from inside other statement in his Curry added six re- Adebayo added 13 points Magic 112, Grizzlies five at the half before the 3-point arc. Killian MVP candidacy, leading bounds and five assists to and 10 rebounds as Miami 111 the Wizards Hayes, who had 10 points, Denver to a road win over his ledger. Andrew went four games over .500 Rookie Cole Anthony leapfrogged to the six rebounds and six as- Los Angeles. Wiggins added 20 points for just the second time swished a deep 3-pointer front with a surge at sists, shot 4-of-11 from the Jokic finished with while Mychal Mulder and this season. with 0.1 seconds left to cap the end of the third floor. game-high totals of 30 Jordan Poole combined for Kevin Love and Collin his season-best, 26-point quarter. points, 14 rebounds and 34 points off the Golden Sexton led Cleveland with performance and provide Bradley Beal put Pelicans 140, seven assists. Michael State bench. Draymond 25 points each, but the Orlando with a comeback Washington in front with a Timberwolves 136 (OT) Porter Jr. contributed 25 Green flirted with a triple- Cavaliers still lost their victory over visiting pair of free throws with Zion Williamson scored points, seven rebounds double, producing nine sixth straight game. Memphis. 26.1 seconds remaining 37 points and Lonzo Ball and five assists, and PJ points, 11 rebounds and Anthony’s dramatic shot before Doncic found had a career-best game as Dozier added 16 points. eight assists for the Hawks 108, Bulls 97 over Memphis’ Kyle Finney-Smith in the cor- visiting New Orleans ral- With the win, the Nuggets Warriors. Trae Young scored 33 Anderson was the finish- ner for his huge 3-point lied late to defeat overtook the Clippers for Kevin Porter Jr. scored points while Clint Capela ing touch as the Magic shot. Beal then missed the Minnesota. the third spot in the 14 of his 16 points in the and John Collins each overcame a 20-point potential game-winning 3- Williamson made 14-of- Western Conference by a first half and added six as- recorded double-doubles to deficit to split the back-to- pointer with 2.6 seconds 17 field goals and added half-game. sists for Houston. Jae’Sean lead host Atlanta to a vic- back with the Grizzlies. to play. nine rebounds and tied a Kawhi Leonard re- Tate had 14 points, three tory over Chicago. Moritz Wagner scored a career high with eight as- turned to the starting assists and three steals The Hawks snapped a season-high 24 points and Hornets 107, Pistons sists. Ball scored a career- lineup for the Clippers while Christian Wood three-game losing streak Dwayne Bacon added 23 94 high 33 points while tying after a five-game absence. paired 10 points with and took sole possession of as Orlando won for just A 13-0 run in the fourth a career best with eight 3- Leonard, who had played seven boards for the fifth place in the Eastern the third time in 16 games. quarter, 29 points from pointers, and added 11 re- just one game over the Rockets. Conference, a half-game Dillon Brooks scored 23 Terry Rozier and the re- bounds. past three weeks due to a ahead of the idle Boston points for Memphis, and turn of LaMelo Ball to the Rookie Anthony sore right foot, finished Heat 124, Cavaliers Celtics. Capela scored 20 he knocked down an 18- lineup powered host Edwards scored 29 points with 16 points and six as- 107 points and grabbed 11 re- footer with seven seconds Charlotte past Detroit. and Karl-Anthony Towns sists. Paul George led Los Kendrick Nunn scored bounds while Collins fin- left to give the Grizzlies a Ball played a solid all- had 28 points and 14 re- Angeles with 20 points. 22 points, leading Miami ished with 13 points and 111-109 lead. Ja Morant around game in his return bounds before fouling out to a win over host 10 rebounds. recorded 22 points and from a wrist injury that as the Timberwolves saw Warriors 113, Rockets Cleveland. Chicago’s Thaddeus seven assists, Anderson had sidelined him since their season-best four- 87 Miami, which has won Young, who started in scored 21 points, and March 20. He finished game winning streak Stephen Curry exploded six of eight games, also got place of injured forward Jonas Valanciunas had 11 with 11 points, a game- come to an end. for 23 of his 30 points in 20 points from Duncan Nikola Vucevic (right ab- points and 16 rebounds for high eight assists and the third quarter as Robinson. Trevor Ariza ductor tightness), finished Memphis. The Barbados Advocate Monday May 3, 2021 •23

P R O HOROSCOPES S A Aries - Your ability to turn thoughts into reality will N make you as successful in money matters as it does in D business. With your help, others are able to get new projects underway. The one frustration will be a caused C by a cautious colleague who decides to add their ideas O just as everyone thinks all decisions have been made. N This could turn everything upside down. S Taurus - Even though you won't be straying too far away, you could be looking at your life and the envi- ronment around you with new eyes. A close friend has betrayed your trust. They feel they have a good excuse for letting you down but you aren't at all impressed with their reasons.

Gemini - You wake up full of the joys of spring. Z Absolutely nothing seems to be a bother for you. I Several loved ones will want to enjoy your company. T Take this opportunity to reconnect with your friends. Making plans for the future together will be exciting. S You have a lot to feel pleased about.

Cancer - What you expected to be a simple assignment will include an unexpected challenge. Plans will need to be postponed when something crops up that will mean having to make some changes. Your boss is hop- ing to question you about a recent incident even though you were not involved and would prefer to keep your thoughts about it to yourself. R E Leo - You're extremely charming. If you are looking for X work, this would be a good time to fill in applications, approach potential employers and go for interviews. Arguments in the family can now be resolved as you M find it easy to charm others around to your way of O thinking. You won't have a moment to call your own. R G Virgo - It will take time to adjust to new routines. A Expect it to be hard work settling into a new role. If you N have taken on a more responsible position or addi- tional work to your normal quota you can't expect to adjust to this immediately. Anxiety will ease as you be- come familiar with new procedures.

Libra - Entering a contest could be exciting but this could put you up against a friend. Do you really want to compete against each other? Think before speaking P when you're in the company of senior colleagues. An H unexpected offer will be a window into unchartered ter- A ritory. Choose the moment to show your interest very carefully. N T Scorpio - You are the most productive and conscien- O tious person in the workplace. You should balance this M with rest and relaxation. A persistent headache could be the result of stress. You cannot continue to work at a superhuman level. Make more time for activities that replenish your spirit.

Sagittarius - If you feel overwhelmed with work, ask for help. You long for a break from technology. You have put a lot of careful attention into matters that M have involved facts, figures and detailed information. A This has stifled your creativity. Inventing new recipes R or landscaping your own or a friend's garden are good ways to use your imagination. Y

Capricorn - You resent changes that are being made as W these have more to do with pleasing other people than O yourself. You feel you should have been able to take R part in discussions. There seems to be no choice now but to accept what it is going on and to apply yourself T to new situations. H

Aquarius - Some surprising developments are in store. This could mean an addition to the family or the oppor- tunity to adopt a pet from a local animal refuge. People are falling over backwards to help you. It doesn't mat- M ter what you find yourself doing, there will be some- O one who has the knowledge or skills to help out. T H Pisces - You will love the ideas your partner or a close E friend suggest to have some fun together. This will R take them by surprise as they expected you to object to them. Are you in a new relationship? This would be the G perfect time to let someone special know your feelings. O O S E Man United’s game off after fans storm stadium in protest Page 19

Monday May 3, 2021 ‘ECONOMIC ACTIVITY MUST GET GOING’

A LOCAL economist to ease restrictions, Governor of the Central Caribbean, Kemar Stuart, 20 000 jobs, that the Prime economy has revealed that says that Government and prevent future Bank on the economic per- said that of necessity, the Minister intended to cre- it has been in recession for must move ahead with lockdowns at all costs, formance for the first Administration must also ate to drive economic ac- more than a year. Stuart planned capital works if it is to get economic quarter of 2021, Director draw on the Jobs and tivity. went on to say that in fact projects, facilitate activity going again. of Business Development, Investment Council, to His comments came as the country was in reces- widespread COVID-19 In his review of last Finance and Investment provide the structure and he said that the latest out- sion pre-covid. He made vaccinations in order week’s report from the with Stuart & Perkins details of the much needed look for the Barbados PICK UP on Page 4

CENTRAL CLEAN UP: Across the island, major cleaning has been taking place to rid the island of the ash fall from the La Soufriere volcano in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Public buildings are also getting a general cleanup and our roving photographer caught a glimpse of this cleaning taking place recently at the Central Police Station in Tudor Street. Plans for temporary schools, new exam dates for SVG THE Prime Minister of Soufrière eruptions. The Curtis King told the local late May. Other exams, finalise how the ated. This is expected to St.Vincent and the national leader said that media recently that the Caribbean Certificate of Caribbean Examinations maintain the integrity of Grenadines (SVG), Dr. this initiative was concep- Caribbean Secondary Secondary Level Council (CXC) will admin- the examinations. Ralph Gonsalves an- tualised as most of the Education Competence (CCSLC) ex- ister examinations for Students are expected to nounced three temporary schools are emergency Certificate(CSEC) exami- aminations will occur four 2021 in SVG. Minister receive topics five weeks schools to be constructed shelters. nations will be held in days after CSEC exami- King noted from the dis- in advance.The terms and at the end of ET Joshua The island's top educa- July/August instead of nations. The Caribbean cussions with the regional conditions include six to tarmac. tional official is also try- June/July. The equivalent Vocational Qualification body, the impact of eight weeks of face-to-face He announced this to ing to ensure that stu- to the Common Entrance (CVQ) examination will COVID-19 and the dengue instruction for form five local media recently as dents complete their exam, Caribbean Primary happen in October instead outbreak were considered and grade six students in government officials con- yearly examinations. Exit Assessment (CPEA) of August. and recent events from La May.The School-based as- tinue to deal with the af- The Vincentian tests will be completed in The Ministry of Soufrière. As a result, a sessments (SBAs) are to termath of the La Minister of Education, late July of 2021 instead of Education is still trying to parallel exam will be cre- be completed. (KPB)

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