Established October 1895 Bostic warns: Do not be complacent

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Friday April 16, 2021 $2 VAT Inclusive PUSH TO REOPEN GAIA By André Springer International Airport closed any longer and there was a considerable THE Prime Minister of Barbados, effort being made to have it Mia Amor Mottley, declared reopened as soon as possible. yesterday that Barbados could not afford to have the Grantley Adams GAIA on Page 3

Crews starting work to clean the Grantley Adams International Airport after the recent volcanic ashfall. INSET: Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley speaking at a press conference yesterday. CXC candidates allowed to defer sitting date CXC is implementing a facility CCSLC. could be transferred for use in the next sitting, and for the first time, CXC for candidates to defer sitting In a recent press release, examination sitting where the subject will accept SBAs in January 2022 examinations and submitting School- CXC explained that they reached is offered; the rules pertaining to the for candidates deferring to sit Based Assessments (SBAs) until this decision following extensive reuse of SBA scores for resit candidates examinations for subjects offered in January 2022 examination cycle consultations with regional Ministries remained unchanged; candidates that period. for CSEC, or the May/June 2022 of Education. may also submit a new SBA or delay examination cycle for CAPE, CSEC of The release outlined that SBA scores submission of SBAs until the chosen CXC on Page 4 2 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Volcano has operated in ‘classic’ way LA SOUFRIÈRE con- Seismic Research Centre, tinues to amaze the which became part of The scientific team of UWI in 1962. Moreover,he The University of the declared that The UWI is West Indies Seismic the Caribbean’s premier Research Centre (The public university,which is UWI-SRC), according here to serve. to Professor Richard “Public universities are Robertson. designed to serve their The Geologist and team communities in multiple leader said the volcano ways. Our task is to see in St. Vincent and the all the areas of vulner- Grenadines has operated ability and work to so far in a very ‘classic’ strengthen them – see way in terms of the sig- all areas where certain nals that it has put out ‘in- strengths exist and how dicating what it’s doing’. to sustain those strengths. However, he admitted, “I So, we are here in service don’t think that I would – we are here to serve the have believed that on 13th people of the Caribbean. April, it would repeat al- And this is an area of most exactly what it did service that is absolutely on 13th April, 1979.” Vice-Chancellor of The University of the West Indies critical to the existential Professor Robertson Geologist, Professor Richard Robertson. (The UWI), Professor Sir Hilary Beckles. reality in the Caribbean,” was at the time contribut- he stressed. ing to The UWI’s live vir- Tuesday – this specific the volcano moved to an Vice-Chancellor of The destruction, people have “All of the big challenges tual forum on the ongoing kind called a ‘volcanion ex- explosive phase following UWI, Professor Sir Hilary to deal with them and facing the Caribbean peo- monitoring and relief ef- plosion’, is very much like three months of effusive Beckles; and Pro Vice- therefore the impact is ple – we are going to be forts to support the island what it did on 13th April eruption, magma extru- Chancellor and Principal tremendous and that’s active in those issues.The in the wake of the erup- in 1979.” sion and more recently, of The UWI Open the case of St. Vincent.” climate change issues; the tion. Leading up to the April tremor and volcano-tec- Campus, Dr. Luz “So, while I’m as a scien- volcano issues; the issues “In other words, not only 9th eruption, The UWI- tonic (VT) seismic activity. Longsworth. tist glad that I’m able to around chronic diseases; did it erupt on Tuesday SRC team was on the is- “I am glad that so far The expert further provide support, I am the issues around COVID- around the same time it land since December 2020 we have to a large extent lamented, “Volcanoes are aware also of the tremen- 19; public health – in all did 42 years ago, but the when activity was first de- gotten it right,” he told amazing things, but they dous damage and destruc- the areas of concern and kind of eruption it had on tected. On that morning, the panel, which included cause destruction and tion it has done, and it threat to the people of the damage. Even though the could do – it is not finished Caribbean, The UWI will process of volcanism is yet. So, I’m glad of the develop and deploy its how life, and land and the contribution that Seismic specialist skills in those territories we occupy – could make in making a circumstances to help to the beautiful countries difference,” he expressed. alleviate, to strengthen in the Caribbean – were Professor Beckles com- and to protect – this is created… But in their mended the work of the what we are here to do.” The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 3

Do not be complacent, warns Bostic THERE has been a call for the things were going statistically, based ing masks. We must be very, very people of Barbados not to become on the work that they have been vigilant as we go forward so that we complacent and to continue to ad- doing. continue in the present trajectory,” here to the health protocols, so as “I congratulate the entire country, warned Bostic. not to return to the past situation citizens, residents, the press, the many Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley from earlier this year where there team members from the various parts reiterated the words of Minister Bostic was an explosion of positive of the frontline operations who have and expressed her happiness at the COVID-19 cases. contributed to the continuous decline continued progress in the fight against Minister of Health and Wellness, in our positivity rates,” said Bostic. the spread of COVID-19, but also Lt. Col. Jeffrey Bostic, during a press He however noted that if there stated she wished they were better. conference at the Grantley Adams was one thing he had learned from Mottley acknowledged that the island International Airport, announced that the experience of last year was that had come a long way in recovering of the 562 tests conducted for April 14 things could change in the twinkling from the significant jump in cases at at the Best-dos Santos Laboratory, of an eye, especially when people be- the start of the year and cautioned there were nine new positive COVID came complacent. The health minister Barbadians not to drop their guard. cases – three males and six females. referenced a couple situations in “The fact that this incident has hap- Eight people were also said to be re- which the ministry was monitoring. pened where people remain stubborn leased from quarantine. He highlighted the previously re- and not want to co-operate or incline Minister Bostic stated that he ported new cluster from a church in their hearts to wisdom, causes us to be continued to be happy with the way the north, which now tallies around in a position where other institutions 23 people. have been put at risk today,” said the Bostic also stated that the cluster Prime Minister. had spawned new COVID sites, im- Mottley encouraged people to AG: Citizens pacting three institutions, with one continue to adhere to the protocols having at least ten positive cases while and said that one of the only good the others had one each. The health things about the volcanic ash affecting have the right to minister explained that in his belief, the island was that everyone on the these kinds of situations fed the pan- island was now wearing masks. She demic, giving it life. also highlighted that the vaccination challenge gov’t “The arrival of vaccines and the con- programme had been affected by the tinuous decline in positivity rates is arrival of the ash, but was still part IT is the right of any citizen to chal- not an excuse for us to stop sanitising, of the primary battle going forward. Minister of Health and Wellness, Lt. lenge a government in court on areas stop social distancing and to stop wear- (AS) Col. Jeffrey Bostic. they believe to be unconstitutional, says Attorney General Dale Marshall. Speaking on an episode of COVID Queries this week, he outlined that Strength of eruptions has weakened: PM previously this nation’s law courts had been called upon to deal with a num- GAIA from Page 1 “What was said is that the regularity from as far up as Gemswick, down and ber of constitutional challenges of the eruptions has decreased and the you going to have dust coming in,” she brought forward, and therefore Addressing the media at the Grantley strength of the eruptions has also weak- said. stressed there was nothing wrong with Adams International Airport (GAIA) ened. With those two things in hand, The Ministry of Agriculture, according the current situation, “where individ- yesterday, the Prime Minister was we believe that we are in a position to to the Prime Minister, would also be mo- uals are not waiting in some cases giving an update on the situation at the really ramp ahead with the clean-up bilised in ensuring that the fields which until an offence is alleged against airport and stated that it was necessary operations,” said Mottley. would affect the airport, would not only them and have brought a number of to have flights return to the island. The plan before the most recent infor- be plowed but also dampened. constitutional motions in the High “Our airport has to open back as a mation from Professor Robertson, was to For the majority of the day yesterday, Court and those are being heard with matter of urgency and Barbados has minimise the flow of ash and dust in crews from the Ministry of Transport some dispatch”. been cut off through air transport for the the airport terminal and on the runway and Works, along with the Barbados Recently, several cases, including last six days and we cannot continue areas and car park. Now the focus is to Water Authority and the Barbados Fire one by Opposition Senator Caswell with that,” she said. ramp up the operations and Mottley an- Service, using non-potable water, were Franklyn, have been filed against Prime Minister Mottley said that the nounced that during the next two days, cleaning and working to ensure that Government’s COVID-19 directives in Director of The University of the West all of the major civil works construction there were multiple approaches to the High Court. Indies Seismic Research Centre, companies would be assisting at the keeping the dust levels down. And according to Marshall, who Professor Richard Robertson, had been airport clean-up. The airport would be However, the Prime Minister alerted helped draft the directives, “That is in contact with her administration, divided into segments including the the public that even with the examples the right of any citizen to robustly saying that the most recent eruption canopy and the work would be com- of other international airports who have challenge a government in terms of had not been of significant strength. As pleted as quickly as possible. had to contend with ashfall, including those things the citizens may consider a result, ash was not propelled suffi- “We recognise that the airport, you Iceland, Alaska and in Indonesia, there to be an abuse or an excess of power. It ciently high enough for it to be a threat cannot just deal with the airport ter- was a trial and fix period because of the is par the course in our legal system to Barbados and a significant portion minal, but you have to create a zone nature of the dust and the movement of and we have been doing it for years. had gone west instead of east. around it because the wind is blowing the breezes, among other things. These types of matters are not new.” While pointing to a few cases which had been filed against Government, including that for the eight per cent ‘Specific legal language had to be used’ cut to public servants’ salaries in the 1990s, the AG said, “Throughout our WHILE there has been criticisms from be brought before him,” he said. tives have been worded in a way the ma- legal system, we recognise the right of the public on the legal jargon contained Speaking on COVID Queries this jority of the public could understand. citizens to challenge decisions of the in the COVID-19 directives, Attorney week, Marshall noted that “criminal law “To use an analogy, if we pass amend- government and sometimes they are General Dale Marshall explained the is very unforgiving to ambiguity and any ment to the Road Traffic Act, it may af- found for the citizen and other times rationale behind such. ambiguity is resolved in favour of the fect a very small percentage of a persons not, but that is what a robust legal “We have had to use specific legal lan- accused”. who use the road. If we craft an amend- system does and I am satisfied that guage because breaches of the directives “That therefore means that as we craft ment for aviation legislation, it will affect our system is able first of all to ade- can have serious consequences, including our COVID directives, even though it is even fewer people. However,because the quately try cases when individuals de- fines or imprisonment, and the closure subsidiary legislation where there is COVID directives are all-embracing and fend themselves and equally to look of businesses. So in certain instances, some flexibility,it is still important for us affect every single Barbadian or another dispassionately through the eyes of a we have been very careful to use precise to strive to use precise language. So that and also because they are changing every judge at the actions of a government to legally understood language because of in the eyes of the court and those respon- two weeks, it has been an important make a decision as to whether any- the ramifications. Exactly how we ex- sible for enforcing the directive, there is thing for us to try to actually express thing we have done could be consid- press an offence is important to a person absolutely no doubt as to what one can these things in the language that the ered to be a breach of a person’s consti- accused of that offence, because he has to and cannot do,” he stressed. average layman can understand,” he tutional rights or an abuse of powers.” mount a defence to whatever charge may The AG nevertheless said the direc- continued. 4 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

SBA requirements for Contingency some subjects reduced by as much as 50 per cent CXC from Page 1 subjects. plan in place This information is high- “The granting of the deferral lighted in the ‘SBA Student BY CARA L. JEAN-BAPTISTE that the normal school days will be managed by the princi- Handbook: Treatment of are. pal, for in-school candidates, and Syllabuses and School-Based MINISTER of Education, “Necessary protocols will be by the CXC Local Registrar, for Assessment for the Adminis- Technological and put in place in the event that private candidates. Candidates tration of Examinations’. Vocational Training, children are in the classrooms should indicate an intent to Additionally, CXC noted that Santia Bradshaw, assures if ashfall occurs.” defer from the June/July 2021 they intended to share the broad that the Ministry will con- The Minister went on to re- examination cycle by 1 May, topics to be assessed on Paper 2 tinue to prepare for worst- veal that they had a number of 2021. There will be no fee for the CSEC and CAPE sub- case scenarios. Health and Safety committees charged for the deferral of exam- jects with the Ministries of During a recent press con- at the various schools and inations,” it said. Education for distribution to all ference, Bradshaw noted that there was a thrust in the last “The deferral procedures candidates on 10 May,2021, five while there was no certainty of few months to try and get were shared directly with weeks before the start of the ex- what would happen if there more of these committees es- all Ministries of Education aminations, for subjects where was continued ashfall and tablished and fully function- and Local Registrars from such details are not already they were not ready for ing in addition to a number of across the region on Friday, available in the syllabus and schools to be opened on April training sessions that have oc- 26 March, 2021 and Friday, further reminded candidates 26, they were going to use curred with UNICEF as well. 9 April, 2021 and communica- that the entire syllabus is as- their best efforts over the next She went on to note that tions placed on the CXC web- sessed on Paper 1. few days to make sure they got they had a number of ancil- site: www.cxc.org.” “CXC stands in solidarity with the school plants ready. lary workers at the schools Minister of Education, Furthermore, the press re- our brothers and sisters in St. “We will prepare for the doing the usual cleaning and Technological and Vocational lease stated that CXC recog- Vincent and the Grenadines at best-case scenario, but we will preparation for school, but Training, Santia Bradshaw. nised that some candidates this time, and all our stakehold- continue to have contingencies added that she was aware of across the region, based on their ers across the region affected by just in case,” she said. the need to have a more tech- ious companies that will as- particular circumstances, may the ongoing COVID-19 pan- “Further considerations will nical set of expertise and more sist the Ministry with this not be ready for assessment dur- demic.As a result, CXC® stands be made if there is continued hands to help move all the ash cleaning project, in addition ing the June/July 2021 exami- ready to listen and to engage in ashfall, but we still have the from the premises. to the number of industrial nations cycle and given these dialogue with our critical stake- online as the backup and we It is against this backdrop workers and contractors that circumstances, CXC has re- holders across the education will have to make some ad- that the Minister revealed usually help the Ministry with duced the SBA requirements by landscape,” the press release justments in terms of the time that they were looking at var- its cleaning efforts. as much as 50 per cent in some said. (CLJB) The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 5

CDEMA deploys DDSA team to assist in volcano emergency relief efforts CDEMA deployed a Detailed Wanted Man: Nicholas Andre McIntosh Damage Sectoral Analysis (DDSA) team on April 14, 2021 in support Barbados has recorded 3,753 confirmed cases of COVID-19 (1,825 females and of the humanitarian efforts in 1,928 males), since March 2020, and 3,638 persons have recovered. St. Vincent and the Grenadines following the explosive eruptions COVID-19 update: 9 new cases, 4 recoveries of La Soufrière volcano that com- menced on April 9, 2021. The DDSA THREE males and six females make 2020, and 3,638 persons have recov- team will support the government up the new COVID-19 positive cases ered. There have been 44 deaths from by providing an assessment of key identified on Wednesday, April 14. the viral illness. sectors and guidance towards es- They were among the 562 tests con- A total of 147,290 tests have been timating needs and associated ducted by the Best-dos Santos Public conducted by the public health labora- costs, which will inform the relief Health Laboratory. Four persons also tory from February, last year. and recovery efforts. recovered and were discharged. There To date, 66,069 vaccinations – 27,239 The team, which is being led by are now 80 people in isolation. men and 38,830 women – have been CDEMA, will specifically examine the Barbados has recorded 3,753 con- administered as part of the National agriculture, health and water sectors, firmed cases of COVID-19 (1,825 fe- Vaccination Programme for COVID- which have been prioritised by St. males and 1,928 males), since March 19. Vincent and the Grenadines. Within four days the DDSA team will provide a consolidated picture of the status of the three sectors and their evolving needs. Team members include special- ists from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), Caribbean Agricultural Research and Wanted Man: Dontai Doren Harding Development Institute (CARDI), Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC), Caribbean Wanted men Media Corporation (CMC), Regional Security System (RSS), Food and THE Royal Barbados Police Force is Agriculture Organisation of the United seeking the assistance of the general Nations (FAO), Pan American Health public in locating two wanted men.They Organisation (PAHO) and United are Nicholas Andre McIntosh, 21 years, Nations International Children’s of Sargeant Street, St. John; and Emergency Fund (UNICEF). Dontai Doren Harding, 22 years, also During a national press conference of Sargeant Street, St. John, who are in Barbados on April 14, 2021, CDEMA wanted for questioning in connection Acting Executive Director, Ms. with a number of serious matters. Elizabeth Riley explained, “The intent They should be considered armed and of that team is to support the govern- dangerous. ment in providing an assessment or Nicholas Andre McIntosh is of dark snapshot of where certain key sectors complexion and slim build. He has a flat are at this stage and we want to thank forehead, small ears, small brown eyes, the [organisations]… who readily pro- a bulbous nose and thick mouth. vided persons to support these teams.” Dontai Doren Harding is 6 feet tall, Ms. Riley also announced the upcom- dark complexion and of slim build. He ing deployment of the CARICOM has a prominent forehead, small ears, Disaster Relief Unit (CDRU) team, small dark eyes, broad nose and thick which is co-ordinated through the dark lips. Regional Security System (RSS), to Any person who may know the where- provide support with relief manage- abouts of Nicholas Andre McIntosh and ment operations in St. Vincent, prin- Dontai Doren Harding, is asked to con- cipally at the sea port. The general tact the Northern Division Criminal public has been advised to co-ordinate Investigations Department at telephone relief supplies with the National number 419-1737, District F/Belleplaine Disaster Office in their respective Police Station at telephone number 433- country to assist in the co-ordination 1540, Police Emergency at 211, Crime and tracking of relief items. Cash do- Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS (8477), or the nations are also being encouraged nearest police station. through accounts established for di- Members of the public are also rect donations to St. Vincent and the reminded that it is a serious offence to Grenadines La Soufrière relief efforts harbour or assist wanted persons; any and the regional disaster response person caught committing this offence fund. can be prosecuted. 6 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Rev. Ambrose: Set the example “WE do not live for our- to the effects of the vol- and it has to do with our phasised the need to be selves and we must set cano, this has all changed. faith, our belief that will unified and pointed out the example.” “Soufrière volcano, St. help us to know and to that when this occurs, no Reverend Erma Vincent is here and there trust Him... God is in one will lack anything. Ambrose, of St. Paul’s are more fears,” said charge of all of our lives,” “Those of us who have Anglican Church, gave Reverend Ambrose. she said. physical or spiritual this message during a She commented how Reverend Ambrose abundance, we will be virtual service on Sunday. the recent events have referred to the story of able to provide for those She commented on the La affected everyone’s lives. Thomas in the Gospel and who have left and have Soufrière’s event and how Reverend Ambrose also stressed, “Blessed are returned for whatever it has regressed the recent noted that some people’s those who have not seen reason. So the judgement relaxation of COVID-19 behaviour is not whole- but believe.” She noted is not for us to make. protocols. She spoke about some and it involves evil. that sometimes we do not What we are called to do the Government’s deci- She added it was impor- have all of the answers, is continue to share the sion to allow more people tant to have Jesus Christ but we just have to walk good news of Jesus and Reverend Erma Ambrose of St. Paul’s Anglican to attend church services living in their hearts. in faith and trust God. his resurrection,” said Church is encouraging her congregation to have and funerals and how due “Love is an action word The religious leader em- Rev.Ambrose. faith in God and set the example in society. Mixed feelings about disaster response effort in St. Vincent WHILST there is a but to me, I think it was view that officials in done too late and it was St. Vincent and the not very well prepared, Grenadines have gener- because you had 40-plus ally handled what has bulletins,” he stressed. been a major natural dis- “I remember when the aster reasonably well so increase in the tremors far, there are others who started, the steam was so believe that in terms of much that I felt that the the disaster response, the evacuation should proba- situation could have been bly have started around better handled. Monday,instead of cutting During a recent hosting it so close. Considering the of The Debrief TV Show,a distance these people round-table panel discus- were at in the red zone, sion examining pressing the orange zone, the road issues here in Barbados infrastructure we have, and across the region, a the shelters and to get to number of panelists de- them and so on, it created bated the matter, whilst a lot of bottlenecks,” he focusing on “The Impact lamented. of the La Soufrière vol- “Most of these people cano on the Region”. went into these shelters Vincentian Anthony and they did not have sup- Dennie, a Product plies. The shelters were Development Officer who Panelists as they discussed ‘The Impact of the La Soufrière volcano on the Region’ on the Debrief TV Show not ready. There were operates the Vincentian recently. reports coming out of Cultural Connection children sleeping on cold Channel (VC3), acknowl- Friday. In his opinion, he certainly has accounted resident Coldrick Byron suggested that the grounds and the elderly edged that it has been a said that it likely would for persons being dis- said, “The impact has evacuation process for and so on,” he stressed. rough time for the citizens have been a challenge to placed, but I think the been very scary, because Vincentians should have He also suggested that of St. Vincent to date, get persons moving to safe Government has done a from the time the order been made earlier than based on the list of sup- since the volcano erupted. zones sooner and also into fairly good job, first and was given for evacuation last Thursday and the plies the island’s National He noted that a number of shelters. foremost, in terms of pro- on Thursday, we were all shelters should have been Emergency Management Vincentians who experi- “It has certainly been viding the shelters and prepared in a way. But I better stocked and pre- Organisation (NEMO) is- enced the volcanic erup- some rough days for us providing meals for per- believe that some people pared to feed and house sued earlier on after the tion back in April 1979, in St. Vincent and the sons. There have even did not take it that this persons sheltered there. event, based on his train- believed that they could Grenadines. You in been some situations with eruption would have been “I am a community dis- ing, there should have deal with any subsequent Barbados would have had the elderly. It has been as huge and it kind of got aster manager for over been a lot more supplies eruptions in the same way significant ashfall and difficult to house them in some people off track.” 20-plus years and I am a in stock and on hand for they did that one, but they such is the case for us over shelters, because they However, Dr. Ashley returning Vincentian also citizens. were in for a rude awak- the last few days in St. need that (extra) care and John, a community ac- and to be quite honest He essentially said,“We ening. He however has Vincent. We have had several of them have been tivist and NGO leader with you, I have had some were caught with our defended the Vincentian huge amounts of ashfall, housed in hotels and who is currently in very deep concerns about pants down.” government’s efforts at even in the green zone – apartments, where they Bequia, indicated that he how these disasters are Mr. Dennie however evacuating citizens in the the safe zone,” Dennie, can get that love and has worked in the field managed in our country.I begged to differ, stressing red and orange zones, who is in the green zone at care that is so very much of disaster management heard Mr. Dennie giving that the authorities could close to the volcano, just present, commented. needed.” for some time and based a good picture about how only be guided by the before the eruption last He added, “This Meanwhile, St. Vincent on his knowledge, he he felt it was well done, science and the scientific officials, and once the evacuation order was issued, whilst it was not Region ‘still suffering the consequences of colonisation’ a smooth evacuation process, there were no OAS from Back Page where within which the centre of globaliza- development conversa- a level of competitive- casualties or major prob- these matters can be tion. That has been cre- tion to help to frame the ness, to bring them back lems on that end. He also have social justice?” He discussed. Within which ated by globalization argument that this zone, to a level of dignity pointed out that whilst indicated the OAS could strategies can be created, over three, four hundred this region – through no within the global com- there were initially some assist in this regard. so that the Caribbean years and are still suffer- fault of its own – has munity. And this is what teething problems in “I believe the OAS has can be seen for what it is ing the consequences of been devastated and is in we believe; I think the terms of the operation of a role to play in creating – a group of small islands colonisation. How we can need of a special carve OAS has a critical role to the shelters, this is no an environment, a forum that have long been at bring that together into a out to bring them back to play.” (MG) longer the case. (RSM) The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 7

China releases lunar sample data online China makes BEIJING – China’s space agency has System via the website www.clep.org.cn, mainly rocks and soil from the lunar sur- released an online database of the where they can apply for data and sam- face. full payment first batch of the lunar samples ples, according to the China National According to China’s lunar sample brought back by the Chang’e-5 Space Administration, which announced management regulations, the lunar probe. the release of the database Tuesday. samples will be generally used for four to UN budget Researchers and the public can access The Chang’e-5 probe, which returned purposes, namely permanent storage, the Lunar and Deep Space Exploration to Earth on Dec 17, 2020, retrieved a backup permanent storage, research and Scientific Data and Sample Release total of 1,731 grams of lunar samples, public welfare. CHINA’S Permanent Mission to the United Nations on Tuesday announced that the country has paid in full its annual contributions and various as- sessments to the UN, demonstrating a commitment to multilateralism and its responsibility as a major country. China has paid all assessed contribu- tions to the UN regular budget and the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) for 2021, said a statement released by the mission. China previously had paid the remain- ing assessments for seven peacekeeping operations during the authorised period of 2020-21 (as of Feb 28, 2021). As the largest developing country, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, the second-largest contributor to UN regular budget and peacekeeping assessments, China has always actively supported the work of the UN, firmly safeguarded the international system and upheld multilateralism with con- crete actions, the diplomatic mission said. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of China’s legitimate rights in the UN. Over the past 50 years, China has always been a builder of world peace, a contributor to global develop- ment and a defender of the international Visitors crowd around Lunar Sample 001, which is on display at the National Museum of China in Beijing, on Feb 27, 2021. order, the statement said. China has greatly advanced multilat- eralism. Facing the challenges brought by unilateralism, protectionism and bul- Coastal highway lying practices in the past few years, China has given firm support to multi- lateralism and the UN, it added. set to boost China became the second-largest contributor to the assessments of UN tourism on island peacekeeping operations in 2016 and the second-largest contributor to the UN THE Wanning coastal tourist highway regular budget in 2019. China has ful- in eastern Hainan connects a dozen filled its financial obligations in full, on beauty spots, including Shimei Bay, time, and without conditions in accor- Nanyan Bay and the Shenzhou dance with the UN Charter. Peninsula. Noting that the global economy has The charming scenery along the 35- been hit hard by the COVID-19 pan- kilometre highway attracts thousands of demic, the Chinese mission said the liq- tourists every year who want to go sail- uidity crisis and worrisome financial sit- ing, diving, fishing or surfing, or to take uation that the UN faces have seriously sightseeing tours on a yacht. affected its work and the implementa- “We love the bays here, the tropical cli- tion of its mandates. mate, palm-fringed white sand beaches, Finance serves as a foundation of crystal-clear waters, as well as the array and an important element underpinning of exciting water-leisure activities on UN governance. A sound financial offer,” said Wang Ling’ai from Beijing, situation is the guarantee for the UN to who has visited the area three times with Cars park along a coastal highway in Wanning, Hainan province, in February, as implement its mandates, the statement her family. some tourists get out to enjoy the scenery. said. Work on a 988-kilometre scenic high- Member states should fulfill their way around Hainan Island was launched deputy director of the provincial trans- projects for driverless vehicles and vehi- legal obligations, actively respond to the recently to fully integrate local tourism portation department. cle charging will be built to turn travel secretary-general’s appeal and pay all resources and enhance social and eco- To be completed in the first half of 2023 into a smart technology experience, ac- assessments as soon as possible to im- nomic development, the provincial trans- at a cost of 14.3 billion yuan ($2.2 billion), cording to the highway plan. prove the financial liquidity of the UN, portation authorities said. the road is part of the province’s plans to Hainan opened a high-speed train loop the mission said. The route, dubbed “State Coast develop Hainan into a globally influential around the island in 2015, with trains Meanwhile, the Secretariat should Highway 1”, will be longer than tourism and consumption destination by travelling faster than 200 km per hour continue to strengthen budget perform- California’s coastal Highway 1 and will 2035. About 40 world-class service sta- completing the 653-km loop – roughly ance management, improve internal provide similar breathtaking views. One- tions will be built along the two-lane the same distance as circling Belgium – controls and ensure that resources are fifth of the highway will stretch along highway, which will link with 6,000 km in about three hours.A 1,255-km express- invested in areas such as implementing the sea, and other parts will pass by cliffs, of existing roads in 12 coastal cities and way network around and across the the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable wetlands, dunes, grasslands, farmlands, counties, Li said. island has been established, and more Development, improving people’s liveli- rainforests and special feature towns, 5G technology,cloud computing, satel- international air routes and sea routes hoods and economic recovery, and that connecting 68 bays and 262 scenic spots, lite navigation services and big data will are gradually being opened to link every penny of the taxpayers of the making it a masterpiece “pearl necklace” be used to enable intelligent manage- Hainan, China’s largest free trade port, member states is put to good use, it in Hainan Island, said Li Zhiqiang, ment and real-time monitoring, and pilot with the outside world. added. 8 • Friday April 16, 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 Sub-Saharan Africa to see world’s slowest growth in 2021 Bigger SUB-SAHARAN Africa is few African countries will respectively. situation was largely due set to record the slowest be able to make vaccines In East Africa, Kenya to the exogenous impact economic growth of any widely availability before is predicted to record of the pandemic, he said. world region this year as 2023. GDP growth of 7.6% after “As such the interna- the continent struggles to Selassie said mecha- a contraction of 0.1% last tional community needs bounce back from a pan- nisms like the World year, while Ethiopia’s to support these coun- battle demic-induced downturn, Health Organization- growth will slow from tries with limited capac- the International backed COVAX vaccine 6.1% in 2020 to 2% this ity to be resilient,” he Monetary Fund (IMF) facility already exist to year. said. said on Thursday. channel shots to coun- Seventeen countries A debt service suspen- Wealthy countries tries in need. were in debt distress or sion initiative that was ahead must step up to ease ac- “But these need to be at high risk of it last year, extended in December, cess to vital vaccines and matched with financing the IMF report stated. along with a new common A WEEK ago today, La Soufrière volcano in St. make financing available and investment to mas- And employment fell by framework that encour- Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) erupted ex- to Africa, where the sively scale-up the global 8.5%. ages governments to plosively, nearly four months after activity was global health crisis and supply of vaccines as defer or negotiate down noted at the site that had lain dormant since its economic fallout quickly as possible,” he Growing needs external debt will help, 1979. The result is a dire emergency situation for plunged 32 million peo- said. At a time when govern- the Fund said. that country, and a considerable pain to ple into extreme poverty After shrinking by 1.9% ments have limited fiscal A new allocation of Barbadians as well, who are still dealing with last year, the Fund said. last year - its worst con- space, their needs are $650 billion worth of spe- the unfamiliar experience of pervasive ashfall “Really, how the inter- traction on record - sub- growing. cial drawing rights – the from several subsequent eruptions within the national community can Saharan Africa’s regional For most countries, vac- IMF’s reserve asset – last few days. Considering that there is no way help the region is by im- economy will grow by cinating 60% of their pop- should provide around to determine how long the volcano will remain proving access to vac- 3.4% in 2021, according ulation will require an in- $23 billion to African gov- active this time, or exactly how much damage is cines,” Abebe Selassie, to the regional outlook. crease of up to 50% in ex- ernments from this sum- likely to be done, these two countries will have the head of the IMF’s That’s well below a fore- isting healthcare spend- mer, helping them boost to add this to the coronavirus pandemic as a Africa Department, told cast for global growth of ing. liquidity and fight the major challenge to be dealt with immediately. Reuters in an interview 5.5%. read more The IMF estimated ad- pandemic. ahead of Thursday’s pub- Per capita output is not ditional external funding However, work needs to Basic necessities a priority lication of the regional expected to return to needs for the region for be done to channel more At present in SVG, the priority is accessing the economic outlook for sub- 2019 levels until 2022. the 2021-2025 period at of that allocation to low- basic resources needed to survive. Calls have Saharan Africa. Africa’s rebound will be $425 billion. income countries, been made for food, pillows, blankets, cots, cloth- The continent has uneven. South Africa, the Selassie said govern- Selassie said. ing and personal items like toiletries and house- fallen behind much of the region’s most developed ments needed to be ready “The lion’s share of the hold bleach. But more importantly, water has rest of the world in the economy, will grow by to make bold reforms to allocation is going to been in short supply and so too has personal vaccination race as coun- 3.1% following a 7% con- eliminate policy-induced countries that do not nec- protective equipment (PPE) like N95 face masks tries with the financial traction last year. Oil pro- growth constraints. essarily have the need for and goggles. In Barbados, the main concerns means to reserve shots ducers Angola and But there was also a this additional liquidity,” have been protection from, and now cleanup of, have cornered supplies. Nigeria, meanwhile, will need to recognise that he said. the thick ash which rained down on the country Current trends indicate grow by 0.4% and 2.5% Africa’s current difficult for a few days – the latter issue now leading to water shortages across the island. However, in dealing with the major disaster that is La Soufrière volcano, the threat that is Spain passes child abuse law COVID-19 should not be forgotten. Barbadians should therefore continue to practise social dis- tancing and not only wear face masks, but up- grade to the N95 masks, which prevent the in- backed by UK pianist halation of smaller dust particles as well. Efforts should also be focused on cleaning and maintain- SPAIN’S parliament has “This law is an enor- ual assault vary mas- and minimise the number ing the premises of polyclinics, where persons get approved new proposals mous step – not just for sively by country. In the of times that children vaccinations against COVID-19. to protect child victims of Spain, but for the world,” UK, for example, no under the age of 14 must In SVG, PPEs should already be more widely sexual abuse. he told Spanish news statute of limitations ex- testify, in order to avoid in use compared to cloth masks as a result of Under the bill, which channel RTVE. ists for serious crimes. retraumatising them. compromised air quality on the island, and will now go to the Spanish The comprehensive text However, campaigners “We know that usually a greater attention must now be paid to social dis- Senate, survivors will be – which ranges from child argue that few cases of child who suffers violence tancing and sanitisation. With conditions in the able to report abuse for up protection in schools, fam- child abuse are taken to has to repeat their testi- shelters likely to be crowded, people must pay to 15 years after turning ilies, health care and on- court in Spain as victims mony on average three particular attention to sanitisation and hygiene. 35. line – passed on Thursday may take years before times and the judicial If there is a shortage of water, alcohol can be used Currently, the clock with more than 200 they are ready to speak process can take up to five in some cases to clean hands and surfaces. starts running from their amendments. about their experiences. years,” says Cristina 18th birthday. However, Minister of “I was about 35 before I Sanjuan, policy and advo- Keep watch on COVID cases The vote followed a pub- Social Rights Ione Belarra was able to speak about cacy advisor on violence In the midst of the fallout from the volcano erup- lic campaign headed by said the law “must con- my experience because against children for Save tions, both SVG and Barbados must find a way British pianist and tinue to be improved” as it there’s so much shame the Children Spain. to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Though it Spanish resident James is debated in Spain’s and blame with issues like Ms Sanjuan told the may seem like the less pressing of concerns Rhodes and a number of upper house. this,” Mr Rhodes noted in BBC that the bill marked presently, it could mean the difference in the charities. “The objective of the law his interview with RTVE. “huge progress” in protect- number of lives lost. And especially where dimin- The musician, who has we are passing today is to In addition to extending ing children, noting that ished air quality could cause respiratory illness spoken out about having understand that violence the period in which abuse Thursday’s vote was the and exacerbate some symptoms of COVID-19, it been raped by a teacher against children is not ac- can be reported, the bill result of years of work would be wise to take extra precautions against while at school in the UK, ceptable in any form,” she will also create special from government, politi- the illness. described the law as “fan- said. courts for cases involving cal parties and civil soci- It is hoped that the national vaccination pro- tastic". Limits on reporting sex- violence against children ety. gramme in Barbados resumes soon, and that the conditions in SVG improve and the volcano set- Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes tles down again. We wish for the safety and good E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen health of all those in St. Vincent and the Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan Grenadines. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: [email protected] Difficult conversations – Begone Jesus! DURING our lives, we will God managed our debt our control. We will be for- there is another judge- “You serpents, you brood of terous woman: She eats harm many people, both problem by sending his given to the same extent ment. vipers, how are you to es- and wipes her mouth and intentionally and unknow- Son, Jesus, to pay every- that we forgive others. So, Enoch describes an in- cape being sentenced to says, ‘I’ve done nothing ingly. We will harm them one’s debts. Therefore, if we only forgive someone escapable eternal damna- hell?” (Matthew 23:33) So, wrong.’” (Proverbs 30:20). by doing harmful things, Jesus became the Messiah 60% of their smallest debts tion, for politicians who im- oppressive politicians The most reckless thing and by failing to do helpful of all mankind. Since Jesus to us, then we will only be plemented oppressive poli- should not be feared – but that a human being can do, things.That harm is a debt paid our debts, God ap- forgiven the same 60% of cies. That is why politics is pitied. is to reject the offer to be that we must pay. pointed Him as the one to the smallest of our debts. the most dangerous activ- Jesus predicted a hor- debt-free. The most short- If someone harmed a whom everyone must give At the end of our lives, ity for any human being, rific scenario where most sighted thing that a child, then they should an account at the end of those who have no debts and should only be done by humans will not want to human can do, is to accu- give an account, and make their lives. will have qualified them- selfless persons who want be forgiven. Tragically, it mulate and retain debts. amends to the child’s par- Interestingly, both the selves for fulfilling and ex- to serve, and not enrich has come to pass. Many re- The most certifiably lu- ents. We are all God’s cre- Bible and Qur’an acknowl- citing employment. Those themselves and their sup- fuse to acknowledge that natic thing a human can ation, and we are all guilty edge Jesus as the Messiah, who decided to keep their porters. their actions have harmed do, is to tell Jesus to be- of harming His creation. who will judge all people debts would have automat- It is useful to read Jesus’ anyone. Their attitude is gone. Each of us must give an ac- after their brief time on ically condemned them- words to the oppressive described in Proverbs: GRENVILLE count of our actions, and this Earth has ended. selves to a bitter and mis- leaders of his community. “This is the way of an adul- PHILLIPS II non-actions, to our Creator. The arrangement to erable unemployable exis- Therefore, we all have a se- have our debts forgiven is tence, with others who rious debt problem. fair, and entirely within have done the same. But Another perspective key MANY years ago, just competing business of ad- and opportunity must be Open letter to the after a second publishing vertising and other finan- created for the voices of company started the busi- cial considerations. others to be heard. ness of printing daily Apart from the com- There is always good Cricket powers that be newspapers, my efforts to puter, television, and reason – “even the dull congratulate the editor in radio, the print media has and ignorant, they too NO cricket lover, myself Overs, rain shortened 2nd ception of One Day bringing other diverse and an important and useful have their story” as stated included, has gotten used Innings to 5 Overs and St. Limited Overs in the unusual voices to the in- role to play in giving a by Max Ehrmann almost to Duckworth/Lewis (D/L) Catherine was set D/L 1960s, it’s now 2020s, so formation platform failed. voice to the voiceless. one hundred years ago. Rain Rule. Stern Table: 37 Runs, 60 years on D/L is a con- Yet, prior to the current There are still too many A glow of light appears The gist is quoted as which they reached losing trived ARR Bamboozling lop-sided composition of muted and often unheard at the end of the tunnel “the revision is not in pro- one wicket. YMPC the cricketing world and our Parliament, several voices of the disadvan- and there is a glimmer of portion to the number of protested and the entire to its end, the JEFMAR calls were made by this taged, the under-privi- hope now that the clear overs the two sides can re- competition was can- Method is being offered as letter-writer and others leged, the variously chal- and unambiguous asser- ceive but in accordance celled. ECB 2019 Final the replacement through asking the print media to lenged – physically, men- tion has been made. with the run-scoring re- May 1st, Northants scored public scrutiny if the con- give average Barbadians tally and otherwise, and "Other voices impor- sources the two sides 351 all out full 50, Rain troversies/bamboozle- more opportunities for those at the lowest rounds tant” is an eternal truth have. These resources in- shortened 2nd Innings to ments are to cease. their voices to be heard. of the economic ladder. that must be bolstered by clude both overs and wick- 25 Overs and Yorkshire Example ODI world With only a modicum of No society exists that is positive action from all ets in combination.” On was set D/L Stern Table: champions 2019 England success was such a privi- made up of a single class sections of the media. the contrary,overs provide 175 Runs ÷ Norts 351 = beat New Zealand on a lege achieved against the or group, then time, space MICHAEL RAY equity; furthermore, if it 0.4985% of resources. Boundaries count after was possible to combine Norts 351 x 0.4985% = the match ended in a tie. overs and wickets, then 175 official match target. SUPER OVER applied both sides would have Cross-check Norts 351 ÷ New Zealand scored 16-1 Continue to adopt 200% per match, 100% 50 Overs = 7.02 ARR x England scored 16-2 tie when batting and 100% Yorks 25 Overs = 175 offi- not broken Match FOR a long time adopters in these dire economic ing the seriously ill, who when bowling which is cial D/L Stern Target awarded to England on a in Barbados and else- times in Barbados. And can’t afford treatment confirmed by the very ta- which show beyond dis- boundaries count. where have been doing an presently even the overseas that cannot be bles: overs start 50 = pute, despite myriad England beat New extremely good thing in Minister of Culture has done here? Some may be 100%, last over (1) = 3.9% changes throughout the Zealand on a boundaries adopting sons and daugh- asked for persons and or- of genius potential for x 50 = 195%, 5% short of years, whether it’s called count? A boundary is 6 or ters, who bring very good ganizations to also adopt their offsprings! What 200 per match; instead of D/L, D/L Professional or 4 Runs: Team 1 hits 15 4s benefits to themselves entertainers. Some may about an athlete that the proclaimed 100% per D/L Stern, it’s a simple = 60 Runs + 2 6s = 12 + 60 (the adoptees) and the become international tested positive for the de- match. ARR base only on batting = 72 Runs off boundaries, country as a whole. I shall singers like the great bilitating leukemia has Now the recent death of (Run Scoring Resources) whereas Team 2 hits 11 6s not and would not men- Barbados’ Rihanna, who qualified for the world Tony Lewis, co-inventor of and whenever applied ties = 66 and 4 4s = 16 + 66 = tion any names, for this is brought glory to herself tokyo olympics, 2021? the D/L and these will accrue. Furthermore, 82 Runs; wouldn’t this be very well known. and her country with fi- Keep doing the good matches. the D/L replaced ARR way fair(er) since a match is In recent years, parts of nancial successes to them work adopters and con- BCA 2018 Semi Final, back in 1997. The forego- won by Runs or Wickets? the highways and bus both. tinue your caringness. YMPC scored 33-4 off 7 ing show that from the in- JEFFREY LAYNE stops have been adopted But what about adopt- TREVOR HARPER

LET GOD QUOTES FOR TODAY WORDS OF SPEAK TO US WISDOM Sir Arthur Eddington Konrad Lorenz “Blessed is he whose trans- English astronomer Austrian-born ethologist gression is forgiven, whose sin (1882 - 1944) (1903 - 1989) Silence is one is covered. “We are bits of stellar matter that “It is a good morning exer- of the hardest arguments “Blessed is the man unto got cold by accident, bits of a star cise for a research scientist to to refute. whom the Lord imputeth not gone wrong.” discard a pet hypothesis iniquity, and in whose spirit every day before breakfast. It there is no guile.” – Psalm 32 vs 1&2 keeps him young.” 10 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

The imperative of foreign direct investment for Caribbean countries CITIZENS of the question is how as a flows is expected for the Linked to the emphasis Caribbean are fully Region, can we emerge rest of the year and for our on the ‘new economy’, is aware of the challenges from this stranglehold. countries, if we continue the leveraging of technol- we face. They know For us, the solution is obvi- with business as usual, the ogy in key sectors such as that governments ous – attracting increased future will be a dim one. agriculture. The across the Region are levels of local investment The outlook for the Caribbean is one of the financially stretched and foreign direct invest- tourism sector continues most food insecure regions which has been further ment (FDI). Governments to be pessimistic. The on the planet, and this has accentuated by the and other stakeholders World Tourism been more eloquently COVID-19 pandemic. across the Caribbean must Organization reports that demonstrated by COVID- Our citizens also know have a singular focus on travel experts surveyed 19. A new emphasis on that we have limited ac- steering investment our are expecting a return to agriculture is required. cess to either Overseas way. To achieve resilience pre-pandemic levels only However, this time Development and economic transforma- by about 2023 (Jan. 2021 around, it has to be about Assistance or conces- tion we need to signifi- report). Therefore, sitting using technology to take sional financing from cantly ramp-up and draw and waiting for tourists to Caribbean agriculture for- global financial institu- investment to our shores. return in the numbers of ward into the 21st century tions and that our op- But first, we must un- yesteryear or for global where our young people tions are limited in ac- derstand the trends and prospects to drive up our also see it as a viable busi- cessing finance for challenges so we can posi- export earnings cannot ness opportunity. This is business development. tion ourselves accordingly. and will not lift us out of precisely why Caribbean Our people are clear on Globally, there has been a this economic quagmire. Export, in partnership what they want - a decline in FDI flows, with This is why, increasing with the CAIPA has iden- Amazon boss Jeff Bezos. brighter future for the United Nations local investment and get- tified Agrotech or themselves and their Conference on Trade and ting foreign direct invest- Agriculture Technology as children. More specifi- Development reporting a ment to our shores is most a priority sector for us in Amazon’s Bezos: cally, those with whom 42% decline in global for- critical. the Region. It connects all I speak have an over- eign direct investment in the dots in helping us to whelming interest in ei- 2020 in its January 2021 New thinking needed become more food secure; Union defeat does ther getting jobs or pre- Report. The same report For the Caribbean to be treats agriculture as an serving the ones they went on to note that one of successful in attracting in- entrepreneurial activity; have so they can take the most affected Regions vestment, new thinking in and as one Region we can not bring ‘comfort’ care of themselves and is Latin America and the these unprecedented new offer the scale required for their families. Caribbean which saw a de- times is required. larger investors. AMAZON boss Jeff Bezos "Despite what we’ve ac- We, at the Caribbean cline of 38% in investment Firstly, we cannot con- We at Caribbean Export has said the company’s re- complished, it’s clear to Export Development inflows from external tinue to compete with each recognize that innovation cent victory in defeating a me that we need a better Agency (Caribbean sources. On the other other as individual invest- is imperative for our sur- high-profile unionisation vision for our employees’ Export) also recognize hand, Asia and Africa wit- ment destinations, given vival and must be central drive in the US did not success,” said Mr Bezos, these constraints and hear nessed declines of only our limited resources and to our regional investment bring him “comfort”. who is set to become exec- the voices of our 18% and 4%, respectively. populations. This ap- promotion strategy. As a In his final letter to utive chairman of the firm Caribbean people. The Further weakness in FDI proach cannot achieve the matter of fact, we have al- shareholders as the com- and relinquish the chief scale required to attract ready engaged the services pany’s chief executive,he executive job. BANK RATES serious money our way. In of an alternative finance addressed concerns about In his new role, Mr view of this, we at adviser with experience in the firm’s treatment of its Bezos said, he would de- Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of Caribbean Export are raising capital across workers. vote some of his attention business yesterday by the Central Bank of Barbados. working closely with the emerging and frontier The comments follow a to initiatives aimed at Caribbean Association of markets for entrepreneurs year of blistering global making Amazon “earth’s Valid for April 16, 2021 Investment Promotion and SMEs with high criticism of Amazon’s best employer” and Notes: Agencies (CAIPA) to sup- growth potential. We in- work practices during the “earth’s safest place to Currency Buying Selling port our countries in tend to fast-track support pandemic. work", such as a pro- Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 preparing investment to the packaging and pro- But Amazon decisively gramme that rotates staff Canadian Dollar 1.57403 1.62059 projects that can be pack- motion of regional invest- beat back the union effort, to new jobs to avoid in- East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 aged and promoted as ‘re- ment projects and focus on despite those complaints. juries caused by repeat- Euro 2.34444 2.44316 gional’ proposals with steering investment to sec- “Does your chair take edly doing the same phys- Pound Sterling 2.70064 2.81436 more than one country tors that are vital to what comfort in the outcome of ical task. United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 being promoted as an in- will be the new economy the recent union vote in In a statement, Stuart Demand/Sight: vestment destination for a whether by focusing on Bessemer? No, he doesn’t,” Appelbaum, president of Currency Buying Selling specific venture.This gives Agrotech, digitalization or wrote Mr Bezos, referring the Retail, Wholesale and Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.58300 1.61917 much needed scale, and the climate-friendly in- to the city in Alabama Department Store Union East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 the pooling of resources vestments. where the union drive oc- (RWDSU), which led the Euro 2.37884 2.42800 helps a wider group of We are acutely conscious curred. unionisation drive in Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 countries. that the future of our “I think we need to do a Bessemer, said the com- Pound Sterling 2.74027 2.79689 Secondly, we need to Region and the prosperity better job for our employ- ments showed the cam- United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 focus on investment that of our people ride on the ees.” paign had had a “devas- Telegraphic Transfer can help propel a new actions we take now for In the letter, Mr Bezos tating” impact on the Currency Buying Selling economy, driven by cli- business to be a driver and said he was proud of the firm’s reputation,“regard- Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 mate-friendly business central player in advanc- work environment at less of the vote result". Canadian Dollar 1.58600 1.61917 and digitalization. The ing a transformational Amazon, which employs “We have initiated a East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.38332 2.42800 world is going green and agenda for our Region. At 1.3 million people globally global debate about the Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 embracing digitalization Caribbean Export, we in- and hired 500,000 people way Amazon treats its em- Pound Sterling 2.74542 2.79689 and so must we.Therefore, tend to do just that, with in 2020 alone. ployees. Bezos’s admission United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 we need to make a con- the attraction of local and He said the company today demonstrates that certed effort to bring com- foreign investment being had led the way by setting what we have been saying INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL panies to our shores that a central pillar of our work $15-an-hour minimum about workplace condi- CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE are at the forefront of in the years ahead. wage, defended the firm’s tions is correct. But his ad- RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS green technologies in productivity targets for mission won’t change any- N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. areas such as solar and (Article by Deodat workers and disputed re- thing, workers need a BDS$ wind. This means an in- Maharaj is the Executive ports that staff feel so union - not just another Guyana Dollar 0.00945 Jamaica Dollar 0.01332 vestment approach that is Director of the Caribbean pressured to meet those Amazon public relations T&T Dollar 0.29593 targeted and forensic in Export Development expectations that they effort in damage control,” focus. Agency ) cannot take breaks. he said. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021• 11

Equal pay bill nears approval in House WASHINGTON – House said House Speaker trial lawyers, but to con- making about 63 cents for Democrats were poised Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.“It’s tinue its focus on strong every dollar earned by a to pass legislation almost sinful.” economic policy that actu- white male counterpart Thursday that they say The bill would make it ally expands opportuni- and Hispanic women would help close the easier to sue employers ties for all Americans,” he making even less. gap between what men over pay discrimination, said. Rep. Virginia Foxx, R- and women are paid in curb the ability of compa- Democrats counter, N.C., said many women the workplace, though nies to retaliate and beef however,that existing pro- choose jobs that offer more the measure faces little up enforcement of exist- tections have proved in- flexibility to balance home chance of overcoming ing laws, including a new sufficient, including those and work. Republican opposition requirement that busi- offered under the Equal “Democrats aren’t giv- in the Senate. nesses submit detailed Pay Act of 1963, which re- ing the full story when The bill, which is sup- pay data to the federal quires that men and they talk about pay differ- ported by President Joe government for use in women in the same work- ences,” Foxx said.“Women Biden’s administration, is policing pay discrimina- place be given equal pay are making career choices the latest salvo in a long- tion laws. It would also for equal work. that are best for them- running debate about ban employers from pro- The U.S. is hardly alone selves and their families.” equality of pay and the hibiting employees from in having such disparities. The measure is widely government’s role in en- discussing their salaries. But the gap is larger here opposed by business, in- suring it. Despite their Republicans say laws al- than in many other coun- cluding the U.S. Chamber past efforts, including the ready on the books outlaw tries, with only Mexico, of Commerce, which ar- Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay pay discrimination. And Finland, Israel, Japan and gued in a letter to mem- Act of 2009 signed into law they counter that the bill Korea having larger dif- bers of Congress that by President Barack would largely be a boon for ferentials, according to a there are often legitimate Obama, Democrats say trial lawyers looking to study by the Organisation reasons for differences in there is still more that sue companies while mir- for Economic Co-operation pay between men and needs to be done to close a ing employers in burden- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. and Development, an in- women. gap in pay, where white some new reporting re- ternational group based in “Increasing the opportu- women make on average quirements that would re- R-Texas, said that “wage about correcting those Paris. nity for frivolous litigation 82 cents to every dollar quire them to submit de- discrimination has no wrongs. Democrats also note would only further serve earned by white men. tailed pay information to place in any society.” But “The path Congress that the disparity is par- to undermine our nation’s “Sadly, equal pay is not the federal government. he said the Democrats’ bill must take is to not in- ticularly acute for women civil rights laws,” the yet a reality in America,” Rep. Michael Burgess, wasn’t the right way to go crease opportunities for of color,with Black women Chamber wrote. With layoffs down and spending up, US rebound gains momentum WASHINGTON – A the biggest gain since last government stimulus, in- Navy clothing and shoes Thursday’s encouraging Powell, who expressed his much-awaited economic May, when the economy cluding $1,400 checks that from Finish Line.An addi- news follows a report ear- belief in an appearance boom coming off the pan- first started to rebound have gone to most adults, tional $500 went to re- lier this month that em- last Sunday on “60 demic recession appeared from the virus’ initial blow. as well as higher savings stocking her pantry with ployers added a healthy Minutes” that the econ- to edge closer to reality With US household sav- that many households items that will last a while 916,000 jobs, the most omy is at “an inflection Thursday with fresh data ings high, economists are have managed to build, — ketchup, sugar, spices since August, during point” and appears poised showing the pace of lay- optimistic that the faster have fueled more spend- and Clorox wipes, among March. The unemploy- for a boom. offs dwindling, consumers spending is sustainable. ing.Auto sales soared 15% other things. ment rate fell to 6%, less “We feel like we’re at a spending freely and man- “We are really kicking in March, according to the “I finally caught up on than half the pandemic place where the economy’s ufacturing rebounding. into that next gear now,” government’s retail sales my bills and could go on a peak of 14.8% in April of about to start growing The latest barometers said Adam Kamins, sen- report. Purchases at elec- bit of a spending spree,” last year. much more quickly and point to a US economy ior regional economist at tronics and appliance said Golden, 49, who Kamins, the Moody’s job creation coming in that’s steadily regaining Moody’s Analytics. stores jumped more than works in accounts receiv- economist, noted that data much more quickly,” its health as vaccinations “Things are moving more 10%. Sales at clothing able at a school system. from Google’s mobility Powell said. “This growth accelerate, business curbs decisively in the right di- stores soared 18%. At the same time, facto- tracking service shows that we’re expecting in the are lifted in many states rection than at any time in ries are humming again. that Americans are in- second half of this year is and more people are will- the past year.” Weather a factor In March, the Federal creasingly venturing out going to be very strong. ing to travel, shop, eat out The pace of weekly ap- Warm weather in March, Reserve said Thursday, to shop, visit restaurants And job creation, I would and otherwise resume plications for unemploy- after ice storms in some manufacturing output in- and go to movie theaters expect to be very strong.” their spending habits. ment aid is now down sig- states had held back con- creased 2.7%. Many econ- and other entertainment Many economists,in Though many Americans nificantly from a peak of sumers in February,likely omists expected a larger venues. fact, are concerned more who have lost jobs or in- 900,000 in early January drove more retail spend- gain after output had Even so, travel to work- about a potential burst of come are still suffering, and has dropped below ing. Restaurants and bars fallen in the midst of sites hasn’t picked up as inflation stemming from hopes are rising that the the 700,000-plus level reported a 13% increase February’s unseasonably much, a sign that many the unleashing of pent-up benefits of the recovery where it had been stuck in sales, the most since cold weather. But short- people — mostly in white- consumer demand. Prices will spread further in the for months. last June. Most states ages of raw materials and collar professions — are for lumber, copper, oil and coming months to groups A total of 16.9 million have allowed more indoor parts, from lumber to still working from home.A other raw materials have of people who have yet to people are continuing to dining, and outdoor din- semiconductor chips, prob- result is that lower-in- already risen as demand benefit. collect unemployment ing likely picked up as ably slowed factory pro- come workers in large for gas, homes and elec- The number of benefits, down from 18.2 well. duction. cities are likely still strug- tronic equipment has Americans applying for million in the previous Among the consumers Still, manufacturing in gling, because many jumped. unemployment benefits week. That decline sug- who are stepping up their the New York and mid- downtown restaurants Consumer prices rose tumbled last week to gests that some of the un- spending is Teresa Golden Atlantic regions is recov- and coffee shops haven’t 0.6% in March, the most 576,000, the Labor employed are being called of Renton, Washington ering strongly, according yet reopened or, if they since 2012, the govern- Department said back to jobs. But the large state, who said she used to separate surveys by the have, are seeing far fewer ment reported Tuesday, Thursday, a post-COVID number of ongoing recipi- her first two federal stim- Federal Reserve Banks of customers. and are up 2.6% in the low and a sign that layoffs ents also points to the ulus checks to catch up on New York and Most analysts have past year. Excluding the are easing. harsh impact of the pan- rent and bill payments. Philadelphia, with both grown bullish about the volatile food and energy And sales at retail demic on tens of millions With the most recent reports showing more hir- economy’s prospects for categories, though, prices stores and restaurants of households. check, she said she spent ing, growing shipments the coming months. They rose by a more benign jumped 9.8% in March, Trillions of dollars of $500 on Levi’s jeans, Old and rising orders. include Fed Chair Jerome 1.6% year over year. 12 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline April 15, 2021 GODDARD ENTERPRISES LIMITED 46 2.2 2.2 2.2 0

One security traded firm as 46 shares traded on the Regular Market, with a total value of $101.20. Goddard Enterprises limited was the sole security trading 46 shares at $2.20.

Deposit Receipts Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $22.33 $22.28 -$0.05 SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Fixed income Market Security Volume Thursday April 15, 2021 GOB SERIES B 43114.36 LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE

ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.10 $0.30 1 10,498

BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 70 - INDICES Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES April 15, 2021 April 14, 2021 Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - Local 2,454.49 2,454.54 (0.05) Cross-list 1,140.86 1,140.86 - Barbados Farms Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $0.68 $0.68 - $0.30 $0.40 7,574 6,561 Composite 601.15 601.16 (0.01) Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 23-Mar-21 - - - $4.10 $4.10 - $4.00 $4.10 72 1,081 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions)

FirstCaribbean International Bank 14-Apr-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $1.80 - 11,126 TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES April 15, 2021 April 14, 2021 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 12-Apr-21 - - - $0.16 $0.16 - - $0.16 - 1168 Local 4,933.74 4,933.85 0.11 - Dev Fund Cross-list 145.67 145.67 - Composite 5,079.41 5,079.52 0.11 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 01-Apr-21 - - - $0.56 $0.56 - $0.56 $0.58 5522 51870 MUTUAL FUND April 15, 2021 -Value Fund ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV CHANGE Goddard Enterprises Limited 15-Apr-21 46 2.2 2.2 $2.20 $2.20 0 $2.1 $2.20 4012 598 09-Apr-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.2578 0.0090 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 18-Mar-21 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $1.78 $2.00 56,258 19,274 09-Apr-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2664 0.0010 09-Apr-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6769 -0.0001 One Caribbean Media Limited 30-Mar-21 - - - $2.20 $2.20 - - $2.20 - 1601 09-Apr-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.7773 6.7773 6.7773 0.0574 09-Apr-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.1004 0.0062 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 09-Apr-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0028 0.0030 31-Mar-21 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.6411 5.6411 5.5283 0.0393 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - 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 West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Mar-21 - - - $31.25 $31.25 - $31.34 - 100 - 09-Apr-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.79 0.03 Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $22.33 $22.28 -$0.05 $25.01 - 100 - 09-Apr-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.72 0.02 09-Apr-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.98 0.00 * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD 46 NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. * = Security is Trading X-Div m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly *+* = Security is Suspended Fixed Income

** = Rights Issued Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size GOB Series B 18-Mar-21 $60.00 $60.00 $60.00 $80.00 14,752 34,828 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 NOTICES GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 $70.00 19,617 Emera Incorporated - Directors have fixed March 22nd, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on May 20th, 2021. NEWS BICO Limited – Notice is hereby given that the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders of BICO Limited is scheduled to take place on April 13th, 2021 at the Company’s registered address: Harbor Industrial Park, Schwab sues former client after Bridgetown, BB11145 at 5:00 p.m. accidental transfer of $1.2 mln DIVIDEND DECLARATIONS West India Biscuit Company Limited – Directors have declared an interim dividend of twenty-five ($0.25) cents per share to be NEW YORK, April 13 – in her account, Spadoni paid on April 30th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on April 19th, 2021. Charles Schwab Corp is transferred a quarter of the suing one of its former cus- money to another account, Emera Deposit Receipt - Directors have declared a cash dividend of sixty-three point seven five (CDN $0.6375) cents per common share to be paid on May 17th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on May 3rd, 2020. Registered tomers after the retail bro- after which she bought a holders of depositary receipts ("Depositary Receipts") issued pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Amended and Restated Deposit kerage allegedly sent more house and a car using the Agreement dated February 2nd, 2016 among Emera, the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. and registered and than $1.2 million to an ac- funds,Jefferson Parish beneficial holders of depositary receipts from time to time, are entitled to receive, in proportion to the number of Depositary count of the Louisiana Sheriff's Office spokesman Receipts held by them, respectively, a distribution in the amount of any cash received by the Barbados Central Securities woman and then could not Captain Jason Rivarde said Depository Inc. (net of any applicable withholding taxes) in connection with the Dividend (the "Distribution"). get the money back. in an interview on Tuesday. BSE NOTICES Schwab meant to send "Obviously you are not COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE $82.56 to Kelyn Spadoni's planning to give the money Effective March 29th, 2021, the offices of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central Securities Fidelity Brokerage Services back if you spent it," he said. Depository Inc. (BCSDI) have reopened. Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. account in February, but a When Spadoni signed up computer glitch caused it to with Schwab in January, Kindly note that mandatory digital temperature checks and hand sanitizing for all persons entering the building will be enforced. These checks will be conducted on both staff and clients alike by trained personnel. While we acknowledge that every person erroneously transfer more the agreement she signed with fever may not be COVID-19 positive and that some individuals may present without symptoms, please note that any person than $1.2 million, according included a section that said with a temperature reading of 100? F (37.8? C) or over will be denied entry to conduct business within our offices. to the lawsuit. any overpayment of funds Schwab tried to get the must be returned, said the We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding, however, we must emphasize that this is a necessary step for the money back, but repeated lawsuit, filed March 30. protection of staff and clients alike. calls and texts to Spadoni, Schwab filed a complaint TRADING SUSPENSION who lives in a suburb of on April 6, said Rivarde. The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to New Orleans, were not re- Spadoni was arrested on Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings turned, the brokerage said April 7 and charged with Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. in the lawsuit. bank fraud, illegal trans- mission of monetary funds The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy "We are fully cooperating and theft greater than Industries Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. with authorities in an effort $25,000. She was released to resolve this issue," from jail on April 8 after The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected Schwab said in a statement posting a $150,000 bond, by way of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in on Tuesday. Fidelity de- Rivarde said. Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial clined comment. Most of the money has Corporation Limited. After receiving the money been recovered. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021• 13 St Vincent fears COVID-19 outbreak with volcano evacuations KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – Officials is the lack of water in some communities in St. Vincent said Thursday that given the heavy ashfall, with people they were extremely worried about walking or driving to spigots with buck- a COVID-19 outbreak given the lack ets and jugs in hand as long lines formed. of water and more positive cases Among those in line was Suzanne being reported as thousands of evac- Thomas, a 46-year-old saleswoman from uees fleeing the erupting volcano South Union, a community in eastern crowd into shelters and private St. Vincent that has been hit with water homes. shortages since Saturday. She had wel- About a dozen cases have been re- comed nine evacuees into her home who ported in recent days, with at least five are huddled together, sleeping only on evacuees staying in two homes and one rugs and blankets. A woman and a girl walk wearing protective head coverings walk on a street shelter testing positive, exposing at least “It’s real rough.We have to use one jug covered with volcanic ash a day after the La Soufriere volcano erupted,. 20 people to the virus, said Dr. Simone of water to shower, brush your teeth and Keizer-Beache, chief medical officer on flush the toilet,” she said, laughing as 89 government shelters. Meanwhile, the water and sewer system and expected the Caribbean island. she added: “Water conservation.” government so far has registered more water to reach more communities later Keizer-Beache said officials are prepar- Others, like 17-year-old Kevin Sam, than 6,000 evacuees in private homes, a Thursday, adding that ashfall has been ing to do massive testing as part of con- said they’ve had no water at all since number that keeps growing, said Prime very heavy. Neighboring islands and or- tact tracing, a complicated undertaking Saturday: “I’m glad that these stand Minister Ralph Gonsalves. ganizations also have shipped water to given that between 16,000 to 20,000 peo- pipes are available, ‘cause I don’t know He said he worries about an uptick in St. Vincent, where officials have distrib- ple were evacuated before La Soufriere’s what we would’ve done. It’s not easy to COVID-19 cases in certain areas given uted water bottles and dispatched water explosive eruptions started on Friday. bathe with half a bucket.” dwindling water supplies or complete trucks. She also urged people to keep wearing Meanwhile, supplies were non-existent lack of water. Long lines formed at those trucks and masks and asked them to cooperate, not- or running low at some government shel- “If we’re not careful, we’re going to at money transfer companies, with some ing that some who arrive at shelters do ters. have a spike, which could create a real standing for hours to retrieve cash from not want to be tested, which is volun- Lisa May, 36, said she and her three danger in addition to what we’re having loved ones. tary. children were sleeping on the floor at a with the volcano,” he said.“Washing your “I’ve been here since 4:30 this morn- “Let us work together to prevent a sec- shelter in the capital of Kingstown and hands when you don’t have a lot of water ing,” said Joseph King, a 67-year-old ond catastrophe,” she said in a press con- hoped they would soon have at least one is problematic.” plumber, adding that he was tired and ference broadcast by local station NBC mattress to share:“Any little help we get, Garth Saunders, director of St. hungry. Radio. we (would be) grateful.” Vincent’s utilities company, said crews La Soufriere is expected to keep erupt- Complicating efforts to fight COVID-19 More than 4,000 people are staying in are still cleaning intakes of the island’s ing for days or even weeks. ‘We don’t know if we can go home’ VOLCANIC eruptions on St Vincent "We've had hurricanes before but noth- She told the BBC despite living in the the shelters are schools and because they have blanketed the Caribbean island in ing like this." safer' green zone the ash from the erup- are in the tropics there is a lot of ventila- ash, forcing 16,000 residents from their Shellisa says they were lucky that they tion caused massive devastation which tion, so the dust can easily come homes and leaving many without power were able to leave the red zone in their has only just improved somewhat thanks through." or running water. truck. Many others did not have any to the rain. Many of those who can are trying to Many of those there say they do not transportation. "Roofs caved in on homes because of the leave the island. know when or if they will be able to re- "When we finally got the truck going heavy ash fall. It's been dark for a few 'Incredible but terrifying' turn home. we passed many people on the narrow days and there have been more eruptions Rhiannon West and her family are Shellisa Nanton, 26, lives with her fam- roads, who like us were leaving, but on since Friday," she told the BBC. British nationals, living on the island ily in the red zone - the areas at highest foot and carrying what they could. It was Shanniel says the ash carpeting the is- under temporary residency rules. risk - in Georgetown. She told the BBC so sad and depressing to see. land had left them without water to The teacher hopes to return to the UK they had just hours to leave before La "We were on the road all night until we drink, cook or wash. with her partner and six-month-old baby. Soufriere erupted on Friday. reached the south. I don't know how "The ash contaminated the water but "We stood outside our home on "We felt tremors in the days leading up many people made it out." thankfully it has rained recently so the Saturday and watched as the volcano to the eruption but we were not told to Shellisa and her family are now living ash is clearing in some areas. erupted and a huge billowing cloud of evacuate until the last minute. with a family friend in the south of the is- "But we need humanitarian aid. A lot ash was sent into the air. It was incredi- "We were frantic when we heard the land in Campden Park. She says this is of people have been displaced and are in ble but also terrifying. call to leave.We had to gather our things their home for now. shelters." "Since then we've been sheltering in- so quickly," she said. "We don't know if we can go home. We "Many of my family members live in doors with everything closed. Shellisa said it was painful to leave don't know if there's a home to go back to. red zones in the north of the island and "It's scary thinking about what we can the home she shared with her mother, sis- "We are planning to stay here for at I've been helping them to move down do to protect the baby ter, her sister's partner and their two- least a few months. We just don't know south where I live," Jomo Thomas told "We keep losing electricity, have no year-old child. yet the extent of the damage. It's very the BBC. water supply and no bottled water left at "We were all scrambling to get our be- sad." "It's an horrific scene - since Friday the closest shops." longings together and we could feel the 'Roofs caved in because of the ash' there has been a series of eruptions," the "This could go on for weeks and neither heat. It was heart wrenching and over- On the island's green zone away from lawyer explained. of us can work because of the power sup- whelming to just leave our home like the La Soufriere volcano Shanniel "About four or five thousand are in ply issues. that, leaving behind so many memories. Johnson lives with her extended family. shelters. But the problem is that many of "The atmosphere is just very eerie."

Mostly sunny. A layer of volcanic ash and slight dust haze will be visible across the island.

High: 5:27 a.m. and 6:46 p.m. New York: 11°C Yesterday: Nil Miami: 28°C Low: 12:24 a.m. For the month: 18.3 mm Max: 30.0°C Toronto: 7°C and 11:54 p.m. For the year: 235.8 mm Min: 23.4°C Montreal: 8°C London: 6°C 5:45 a.m. 6:11 p.m. 14 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Jamaica administers Vaxxed to the most doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in the English-speaking the max! Caribbean POWERED by the five-day mass im- Portland and Hanover are at the bot- munisation programme that ended tom of the table. on Tuesday, Jamaica has surged to The ministry said it has received 76 become the English-speaking notifications of adverse reaction or side Caribbean country which has ad- effects from persons who have taken the ministered the most doses of the vaccine. COVID-19 vaccine. Thirty-four of those came from those That country’s Ministry of Health & between the ages of 18 and 37. Wellness has reported that 135,473 per- “We continue to watch this trend that sons have received their first dose of the the younger persons who receive the vac- AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine as of cine are the ones that have the most side April 13. effects,” Dr Melody Ennis, director of That represents seven per cent of the family services in the Ministry of Health 1.9 million Jamaicans being targeting & Wellness, said on Wednesday. for vaccination for the country to achieve Only three per cent of persons over 78 herd immunity by March 2022. have reported an adverse effect after (From left) Delroy Pottinger, Roma Binns and Andrea Francis moments after Each person is expected to receive two taking the vaccine. receiving their dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at the doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine to be Overall, the vast majority of them Mona Ageing and Wellness Centre on Sunday. considered fully vaccinated. came from females. The ministry reported that in week One male has died since receiving the five of the vaccination programme, vaccine. That death is under investiga- 87,755 Jamaicans were vaccinated, over- tion. Why are so many babies shooting the initial target of 59,530. “Our two life-threatening conditions On April 12 especially,26,961 persons were the actually dreaded anaphylactic were vaccinated, making it the largest reactions. We are happy to report the dying of COVID-19 in Brazil? one-day vaccination in the country’s his- patients who have been classified as tory. same have recovered and are doing well. MORE than a year into the pandemic, Such a high infection rate has over- According to the ministry, 17,629 We also had two hospitalisations,” Ennis deaths in Brazil are now at their peak. whelmed Brazil's entire health care sys- healthcare workers have received the stated. But despite the overwhelming evidence tem. Across the country,oxygen supplies jab, 5,947 teachers, and 4,339 tourism Health Minister Dr Christopher that Covid-19 rarely kills young chil- are dwindling, there is a shortage of workers. Tufton announced that healthcare work- dren, in Brazil 1,300 babies have died basic medicines and in many ICUs Ministry data show that 56 per cent of ers would be given a break from the from the virus. across the country there are simply no those vaccinated thus far are women. mass vaccination programme. There is a misconception that chil- more beds. Further analysis of the data shows “They are tired. I saw persons working dren are at zero risk for Covid, says Dr Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro that the 60-69 age group has seen the on their last fumes when they had to go Fatima Marinho, who is also a senior ad- continues to oppose lockdowns and the largest take-up of 26 per cent of the vac- late into the night, and they deserve a viser to the international health NGO infection rate is being driven by a vari- cine. break. Vital Strategies. Marinho's research has ant called P.1 which emerged in Twenty per cent of the vaccines went “Secondly,there are other things to do found that a shockingly high number of Manaus, in northern Brazil, last year, to those who fall between the ages of 50 in public health, it is not just about children and babies have been affected and is thought to be much more conta- and 59, and 14 per cent between 40 and COVID,” Tufton explained. by the virus. gious. Twice the number of people died 49. Phased vaccination will continue on Between February 2020 and 15 March last month than in any other month of Kingston and St Andrew accounted for Monday until some 55,000 doses arrive 2021, Covid-19 killed at least 852 of the pandemic, and the upward trend is the largest share of persons who have on the island sometime next week. Brazil's children up to the age of nine, continuing. been vaccinated. (Jamaica Gleaner) including 518 babies under one year old, Another problem driving the high according to figures from the Brazilian rates in children is a lack of testing. Ministry of Health. But Dr Marinho es- Marinho says that for children often timates that more than twice this num- the Covid diagnosis comes too late, Bolivian ber of children died of Covid. A serious when they are already seriously ill. "We problem of underreporting due to lack of have a serious problem detecting cases. Covid testing is bringing the numbers We don't have enough tests for the gen- down, she says. eral population, even fewer for children. minister ‘took Dr Marinho calculated the excess of Because there is a delay in the diagno- deaths by unspecified acute respiratory sis, there is a delay in care for the child," syndrome during the pandemic, and she says. bag stuffed found that there were ten times more This is not just because there is little deaths by unexplained respiratory syn- testing capacity, but also because it is drome than in previous years. By adding easier to miss, or misdiagnose, the with $20,000’ these numbers, she estimates that the symptoms of children suffering from virus in fact killed 2,060 children under Covid-19, as the disease tends to pres- POLICE in Bolivia have arrested the nine years old, including 1,302 babies. ent differently in younger people. minister for rural development and land, "A child has a lot more diarrhoea, a lot Edwin Characayo, for allegedly accepting Why is this happening? more abdominal pain, and chest pain, a $20,000 (£14,500) bribe. Experts say the sheer number of Covid than the classic Covid picture. Because Officers said he was caught on video cases in the country – the second-high- there is a delay in diagnosis, when the taking a bag full of money in La Paz's city Edwin Characayo. est number in the world – have in- child arrives at the hospital they are in centre, but his lawyer said Mr Characayo creased the likelihood that Brazil's ba- a serious condition and can end up com- did not accept it. government will not cover up any corrup- bies and young children are affected. plicating - and dying," she says. He said his client had been "set up". tion, no matter who commits it". "Of course, the more cases we have But it's also about poverty and access Interior Minister Eduardo del Castillo "Mr Edwin Characayo was arrested and, as a result, the more hospitalisa- to health care. said Mr Characayo had used his posi- and will have to face justice, that's the tions, the greater the number of deaths An observational study of 5,857 tion to "benefit certain people in the ac- correct way," the president added. in all age groups, including children. Covid-19 patients under the age of 20, quisition and clearing of land". Mr Characayo had been in the post But if the pandemic were controlled, carried out by Brazilian paediatricians He alleged that Mr Characayo had since December. President Arce had this scenario could evidently be min- led by Braian Sousa from the São Paolo promised to transfer ownership of a farm sacked Mr Characayo's predecessor for imised," says Renato Kfouri, president school of medicine, identified both co- in the Santa Cruz region to a group of in- alleged nepotism and influence peddling. of the Scientific Department of morbidities and socioeconomic vulnera- dividuals in exchange for the money. The issue of land ownership is a sensi- Immunisations of the Brazilian Society bilities as risk factors for the worst out- President Luis Arce, who has been in tive one in Bolivia, which is predomi- of Pediatrics. come of Covid-19 in children. power since November, said that "our nantly rural. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 15

16 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

One killed, 12 wounded in Baghdad market blast BAGHDAD, Iraq – An said one person was killed explosion rocked and 12 injured, according a market in east to a preliminary investi- Baghdad yesterday, gation. Five vehicles were killing one person and burned, it added. It did not injuring 12 others, say what caused the deto- according to Iraq’s nation. military. The driver of the car was The military said the killed in the explosion, the blast in the capital’s Sadr statement said. City, in the Habibiya Iraq’s president con- neighborhood, was caused demned the attack, calling People and security forces inspect the scene of an explosion at a crowded outdoor used furniture market in by a car laden with highly it a “shameless” attempt Sadr City area, Iraq, yesterday. The powerful explosion rocked the market in east Baghdad on Thursday, explosive materials that by terrorist groups to killing at least one person and injuring many others, according to Iraq's military. The cause of the blast was blew up while passing destabilise the country not immediately known. through a popular used during the holy month of furniture market. It sent a Ramadan. become less frequent in No one immediately drone attack targeted tack targeting a Turkish cloud of black smoke “We stand firmly the past few years, partic- claimed responsibility for coalition forces based military base in northern above the area. Shortly af- against these attempts,” ularly following the defeat yesterday’s bombing. near Irbil international Iraq’s Bashiqa region terward, a crowd of people Barham Salih tweeted. of the Islamic State group The development comes airport and caused a killed one Turkish soldier gathered around the man- Explosions in the Iraqi in 2017. In January, twin hours after a drone strike fire that damaged a build- and wounded a child in a gled wreckage of a charred capital, particularly in the suicide bombings ripped targeted US-led coalition ing, according to the nearby village, Turkey’s car and a burned-out predominantly Shiite through a busy market in troops near Irbil airport Kurdish region’s Interior Defence Ministry said. white van. A fire engine Muslim Sadr City district, the Iraqi capital, killing and a Turkish military Ministry and coalition There was no claim of was parked nearby. were once almost daily more than 30 people and base in northern Iraq. officials. responsibility for either A military statement occurrences but have wounding dozens. Wednesday night’s Separately, a rocket at- attack. Ex-warlord gets life sentence for Ivorian massacres A COURT in Ivory Coast’s main city of Abidjan has handed down a life sen- tence to a former warlord, Amadé Ouérémi, for his role in massacres that were carried out in the west of the country follow- ing the disputed election in late 2010. The UN said 300 people were killed in Duékoué al- though the International Committee of the Red Cross said more than 800 died in a single day – 29 March 2011. At the time Ivory Coast was in the grip of a civil war – which arose from Laurent Gbagbo’s refusal to step down as president after losing an election to Alassane Ouattara. The five months of vio- lence were described as Amadé Ouérémi had faced 24 charges including some of the most brutal mass murder and rape. clashes the country had ever seen. where he had been mak- than 3 000 people died – Ouérémi’s militia was ing a living from traffick- many in Ivory Coast feel also allegedly responsible ing timber and the culti- others should also be for the destruction of a vation and sale of cocoa put on trial, our reporter camp for displaced people beans. says. in Nahibly, also in the Ouérémi faced 24 Last month, Mr vicinity of Duékoué, in charges including mass Gbagbo’s acquittal by the July 2012. murder and rape. International Criminal The former militia Given the magnitude of Court on charges of crimes leader was arrested in the war crimes committed against humanity was May 2013 in a rainforest during the crisis – more upheld. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021• 17

THE EMBRACE: US expels Russian A photo symbolising ‘love and compassion’ of an 85-year-old diplomats, Brazilian woman getting her first embrace in five months from a nurse imposes sanctions through a transparent ‘hug curtain’ was named the World Press Photo for hacking of the Year yesterday. The choice of a winning WASHINGTON – The They are the administra- photo portraying the Biden administration tion’s second major foreign global pandemic was yesterday announced policy move in two days, almost inevitable for the the US is expelling 10 following the announce- contest covering a year Russian diplomats and ment of troop withdrawals in which news around imposing sanctions from Afghanistan. Until the globe was domi- against dozens of com- now, President Joe Biden nated by the virus that panies and people, has focused on the coron- has killed nearly 3 mil- holding the Kremlin avirus pandemic and lion people. The image accountable for inter- economy in his first by Danish photographer ference in last year’s months in office. Mads Nissen captured presidential election The 10 diplomats being the moment Rosa Luzia and the cyber hacking expelled include represen- Lunardi was hugged by of federal agencies. tatives of Russian intelli- nurse Adriana Silva da The sweeping measures gence services, the Biden Costa Souza at the Viva are meant to punish administration said.They Bem care home in Sao Russia for actions that US were selected on the basis Paulo on Aug. 5. A cur- officials say cut to the core “that they were acting in a tain of clear plastic – its of American democracy manner inconsistent with yellow edges folded into and to deter future acts by their status in the United a shape resembling a imposing economic costs States,” a senior official pair of butterfly wings – on Moscow, including by said. offers protection, as targeting its ability to bor- Other measures are ex- does the nurse’s mask. row money.The sanctions pected as well, though the are certain to exacerbate administration is not tensions with Russia, likely to announce them. which promised a retalia- Officials have been advis- tory response. ing that their response to Sanctions against six Russia would be in ways Russian companies that both seen and unseen. support the country’s The sanctions an- cyber efforts represent the nounced Thursday are the first retaliatory measures latest in a series of actions against the Kremlin for that successive presiden- the hack familiarly known tial administrations have as the SolarWinds breach, taken to counter Russian with the US explicitly behaviour seen as antago- linking the intrusion to nistic. Both Trump and the SVR, a Russian intel- Barack Obama expelled ligence agency. Though individual diplomats dur- such intelligence-gather- ing their presidencies. ing missions are not un- Some experts suggest common, officials said this latest round might they were determined to have more resonance be- act because of the opera- cause of its financial im- tion’s broad scope and the pact: The order makes it high cost of the intrusion more difficult for Russia on private companies. to borrow money by bar- The US also announced ring US banks from buy- sanctions on 32 individu- ing Russian bonds directly als and entities accused of from the Russian Central attempting to interfere in Bank, Russian National last year’s presidential Wealth Fund and Finance election, including by Ministry. spreading disinformation. The White House did US intelligence officials not impose sanctions re- alleged in a declassified lated to separate reports report last month that that Russia encouraged Russian President the Taliban to attack US Vladimir Putin author- and allied troops in ized influence operations Afghanistan, saying in- to help Donald Trump in stead that Biden was his unsuccessful bid for re- using diplomatic, military election as president, and intelligence channels though there’s no evidence to respond. Russia or anyone else Reports of alleged changed votes or manipu- “bounties” surfaced last lated the outcome. year, with the Trump ad- The actions, foreshad- ministration coming owed by the administra- under fire for not raising tion for weeks, signal a the issue directly with harder line against Putin, Russia. Administration whom Trump was reluc- officials said yesterday tant to criticise even as his they had low to moderate administration pursued confidence in that intelli- sanctions against Moscow. gence. 18 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

France urges citizens to leave Pakistan amid anti-French protests FRANCE has urged all its citi- blasphemy issues. Under zens in Pakistan to leave the Pakistani law those found guilty country temporarily amid vio- of insulting the Prophet lent anti-French protests across Muhammad can face the death the country. penalty. The country’s embassy in Speaking at a news conference Pakistan warned of “serious on Wednesday, Pakistani threats to French interests in Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Pakistan”, saying protests were Ahmed said the nation was “in increasing nationwide. favour of protecting the Two police officers died this Prophet’s honour” but that the week in renewed clashes with TLP’s demands “could have por- protesters. trayed Pakistan as a radical na- The protests were sparked tion worldwide”. months ago after France On its website, the French em- defended the right to show bassy in Pakistan said on cartoons of the Prophet Thursday: “Demonstrations are Muhammad. increasing across the country. In October last year, French “In this context, and because of President Emmanuel Macron the serious threats to French in- strongly defended freedom of ex- terests in Pakistan, French na- pression after the beheading of a tionals are recommended to tem- teacher who showed such car- porarily leave the country via ex- toons during a class discussion. isting commercial airlines.” This prompted anger in parts TLP supporters throw rocks and bricks at police in Islamabad on Tuesday after the party’s leader In France, state secularism of the Muslim world, including was detained. (laïcité) is central to the coun- Pakistan, where there were calls try’s national identity. Freedom for a boycott of French goods. The protests escalated this for the expulsion of the French streets in Pakistan to protest. of expression in schools and Depictions of the Prophet week after the Pakistani govern- ambassador. Police fired rubber bullets, tear other public spaces is part of Muhammad are widely regarded ment arrested Saad Hussain Mr Rizvi’s arrest, and a move gas and water cannon at the that, and curbing it to protect as taboo in Islam, and are consid- Rizvi, leader of the hard-line po- by the Pakistani authorities to crowds. the feelings of a particular reli- ered highly offensive by litical party Tehreek-e-Labaik ban the TLP,brought thousands The TLP has previously gath- gion is seen as undermining Muslims. Pakistan (TLP), which has called of the party’s supporters into the ered huge crowds to protest over national unity.

Warning over ‘potential South Sudan famine’ MORE than seven million peo- and stop this potential cata- ple in South Sudan will suffer strophic food insecurity – to stop acute food insecurity over the potential famine,” he said. coming few months – and efforts The warning came as the US need to be focused on stopping a government, through its envoy potential famine, the UN World in Juba, announced that it was Food Programme (WFP) has contributing $95m (£70m) in said. additional humanitarian “This coming lean season 7.24 assistance for those affected by million will suffer from severe ongoing political conflict and food insecurity – including 1.4 extreme food insecurity. million children and young A unity government was mothers who will suffer from formed in February last year, malnutrition, and that is the sit- ending a six-year brutal civil uation we are responding to,” war – but insecurity is still rife These three products have been recalled in recent days by the manufacturer. the WFP’s Matthew Holling- across the fertile country. worth told reporters in the cap- This has prevented many ital, Juba. farmers, who were forced to flee “As such, we need to act and their homes, from planting or Three die of salmonella focus all our resources and en- harvesting crops, causing food poisoning from herbal remedy ergy on it in order to mitigate shortages nationwide. THREE people have died in and diarrhoea. Luise Müller of been Husk capsules, Mr Mageli what Danish health authori- Denmark’s Statens Serum said the recall also applied to ties say is a large outbreak of Institut said it was the first time Husk powder. The company is- salmonella that has left 33 the agency had found a herbal sued its last recall of a batch of people ill. medicine to be the cause of a sal- Husk supplements on Monday. Nineteen people have been monella outbreak. Many of those affected by the treated in hospital, according to Orkla Care spokesman Hakon outbreak became ill in March Denmark’s SSI health agency. Mageli said no clear connection and the health agency first Those involved in the outbreak had been confirmed between the alerted the public to the out- are aged between two and 92. three deaths and the products. break on 9 April. By that time All those affected ate Husk However, as a precaution he there was no indication of serious brand psyllium husk capsules said “we have decided right now illness. from batches recalled by manu- to recall all Husk products be- Ms Müller said it was possible facturer Orkla Care. cause of the outbreak in that some people were unaware Authorities found traces of sal- Denmark, and also for the they had contracted salmonella monella in the products at Swedish and Norwegian and as they were already suffering patients’ homes. Finnish market”. from stomach problems. The The herbal products are gener- Although the main focus of the three who died are thought to Hunger levels have worsened in South Sudan because of the ally used to treat constipation Danish health investigation had have been ill already. civil war and the coronavirus pandemic. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 19

France records over 100 000 coronavirus deaths PARIS – France yesterday tally of 99,777, bringing the total became the third country in to 100,077 deaths. Europe after the UK and Lionel Petitpas, president of Italy to reach the unwanted the group Victims of COVID-19 milestone of 100 000 COVID- told The Associated Press that 19-related deaths as new in- the number was “an important fections and deaths surged threshold.” due to virus variants. After months of people getting The country of 67 million is accustomed to the virus, the fig- the eighth nation in the world to ure “is piercing a lot of minds. It reach the mark after a year of is a figure we thought would overwhelmed hospitals, on-and- never be reached,” he said. off coronavirus lockdowns and Petitpas, who lost his wife enormous personal losses that Joelle on March 29 last year have left families nationwide from the virus, said families of grieving the pandemic’s impact. victims “want the government The moment prompted a mes- to make a collective gesture to In this Oct. 2, 2020 file photo, a woman walks by empty restaurants in the centre of Lyon, France. sage of solidarity from French recognise our collective loss.” President Emmanuel Macron. Macron told Le Parisien news- gested it is too soon to set a spe- sands. An analysis of death cer- recalled. “It was like a luxury “Since the start of the pan- paper he thinks about all of the cific date to honour those who tificates shows that some garbage bag. And then she was demic, 100 000 French women people who died in the pandemic died as France is now fighting COVID-19 cases were not re- put in a coffin and sent to crema- and men have succumbed to the and their families. another rapid rise in confirmed ported or patients were not tion.” He was not allowed to see virus. We all have a thought for The pandemic was “so cruel” cases. tested when people died at her. their families, their loved ones, to individuals “who sometimes “There will be an homage for home, or in psychiatric units or Petitpas said despite a decree for the children who have lost a were not able to accompany,dur- sure, a national mourning for chronic care facilities. in January allowing people in parent or a grandparent, the be- ing the last moments and in the victims of COVID-19,” Attal Petitpas started a Facebook France to see their deceased reaved siblings, the broken death, a father,a mother,a loved said Wednesday.“That time will group last year for families of loved ones, many places still friendships,” Macron said on one, a friend,” Macron said. Yet come. ... today, we throw all our victims to share memories of aren’t allowing it. Twitter. “We will not forget a the crisis also shows “the ability forces in the battle against the their loved ones. Nearly every “All these people who left us face, a name,” he added. of the French people to unite.” epidemic.” day, new testimonies appear. (are) like people with the plague, France added 300 new deaths French government Experts say the 100,000 mark “My wife, like so many others, without human dignity, with Thursday to the previous day’s spokesperson Gabriel Attal sug- is an underestimate by thou- was just put in a body bag,” he nothing at all,” he said. India’s biggest cities shut down as new virus cases hit 200K NEW DELHI – India’s two Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, largest cities imposed stringent Gujarat and several other restrictions on movement and states, where many reported a one planned to use hotels and shortage of oxygen tanks. Imran banquet halls to treat coron- Sheikh, a resident of the city of avirus patients as new infec- Pune in Maharashtra, said he tions in the country shot past was asked to supply his own 200 000 yesterday amid a devas- oxygen tank for a relative un- tating surge that is straining a dergoing COVID-19 treatment. fragile health system. Cremation and burial grounds The soaring cases and deaths in the worst-hit areas were find- come just months after India ing it difficult to cope with the thought it had seen the worst of increasing number of bodies ar- the pandemic – and have forced riving for last rites, according to the country to delay exports of Indian media reports. vaccines abroad. India is a major Shahid Jamil, a virologist, producer of COVID-19 shots, said the recent local and state and its pivot to focus on domes- elections with massive political tic demand has weighed heavily rallies and a major Hindu festi- on global efforts to end the val during which hundreds of pandemic. thousands of devotees bathed in New Delhi announced stay- the Ganges river were super- at-home orders for the weekend, spreader events. though essential workers will be The 200 739 new infections able to move about if they have recorded yesterday are about a pass from local authorities. twice the number of daily cases Restaurants, malls, gyms and that were recorded during the spas will be shut down. Movie last peak, in September. The theatres will close on weekends, A health worker takes a swab sample of a child to test for COVID-19 at a government hospital in Health Ministry also reported but can operate on weekdays at Noida, a suburb of New Delhi, India, yesterday. India reported more than 200 000 new coronavirus 1 038 deaths from COVID-19 in a third of their capacity. cases Thursday, skyrocketing past 14 million overall as an intensifying outbreak puts a grim the past 24 hours, pushing the Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi’s top weight on its fragile health care system. toll over 173 000. elected official, said that despite India’s toll of 14 million cases rise in infections, 5 000 hospital ately ill. India’s biggest city ebbed after seen an exodus of panic-stricken puts it second behind the United beds are still available in the “The surge is alarming,” said authorities closed most indus- day labourers, hauling back- States. It ranks fourth in capital and more capacity is S.K. Sarin, a government health tries, businesses and public packs and flocking to over- deaths after the US, Brazil and being added. But still, more than expert in New Delhi. places Wednesday night and put crowded trains. Mexico – though, with nearly 1.4 a dozen hotels and wedding ban- The moves in the capital came limits on the movement of peo- Dozens of other towns and billion people, it has a much quet halls were ordered to be after similar measures were im- ple for 15 days. Train and plane cities have also imposed night- larger population than any of converted into COVID-19 cen- posed in the worst-hit state of travel was still allowed, how- time curfews. those countries. Experts say tres where doctors from nearby Maharashtra, home to financial ever. The surge in cases was weigh- even these figures are likely an hospitals will treat the moder- capital, Mumbai. The bustle of In recent days, the city has ing on hospitals in undercount. 20 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Netflix commissions third, fourth seriesof Bridgerton

etflix has announced there will be a third and fourth series of its Nhit period drama Bridgerton. The announcement comes before its second series has even completed pro- duction. Netflix has previously said Bridgerton is the biggest series in its history, with 82 million households watching the show in its first month of release. However, the streaming giant counts a view as anybody who watches more than two minutes of a single episode. Therefore, a subscriber who only watches five minutes of one episode and switches off is given the same weight as somebody else watching all eight episodes in full. Bridgerton is based on Julia Quinn’s series of romance novels and produced by Shondaland, which was set up by Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal creator Shonda Rhimes. In a statement, the fictional Lady Whistledown said, “Esteemed members of the Ton. It seems we have a rather special announcement. Bridgerton shall Bridgerton’s second series is currently in production. return for seasons three and four. “This author shall have to add more Bridgerton series, I knew these were led by Shonda, knew the material and some exciting plans for the future, and ink,” the elusive lady added. stories that would captivate a viewing delivered a beautiful, emotional, roman- we think audiences will continue to The first series of the show, which audience tic drama for our members. They have swoon for this show.” starred Phoebe Dynevor, Nicola “This two-season pickup is a strong Coughlan and Regé-Jean Page was vote of confidence in our work and released on Christmas Day. I feel incredibly grateful to have However, it was recently announced partners as collaborative and creative ‘Gucci’ film prompts heirs to appeal that Page will not be returning for as Netflix.” series two. Bela Bajaria, the vice president of Shonda Rhimes said, “From the first global TV at Netflix said, “Bridgerton to director over their portrayal time I read Julia Quinn’s delicious swept us off our feet. The creative team, GUCCIO GUCCI’S great-grandchildren say they are “truly disappointed” with their family’s depiction in a new film starring Lady Gaga and Adam Driver. EP Shonda Rhimes ‘shocked’ The upcoming House of Gucci movie is based on a book about the 1995 mur- der of Maurizio Gucci, which led to the at response to Rege-Jean infamous trial and conviction of his ex- wife who served 16 years for contracting his murder. Page’s exit from Bridgerton However, the family have expressed their concerns surrounding the new THE executive producer of Bridgerton, “So there’s a lot of fantastically film, saying it is an intrusion into the Shonda Rhimes, has said she was interesting talk that’s been going on, private lives of the Gucci heirs, appeal- “shocked” at the response to the exit mainly cause I think people are having ing to the film’s director Sir Ridley Scott of Rege-Jean Page from the show. a hard time letting go.” to respect their family legacy. Page starred as the show’s lead, the However, Vanity Fair said Rhimes Patrizia Gucci, Maurizio’s cousin, Duke of Hastings, and proved popular later clarified that Page had been in- said, “We are truly disappointed. I speak among fans of the raunchy Netflix vited to return for cameos in series two. on behalf of the family. period drama. “They are stealing the identity of a However, earlier this month, it was family to make a profit, to increase the Lady Gaga (Patrizia Reggiana) and revealed that he would no longer ap- income of the Hollywood system... our Adam Driver (Maurizio Gucci) will star pear in Bridgerton, and has since been family has an identity, privacy.We can in House of Gucci. linked with a move to MI6 as the next talk about everything. But there is a James Bond. borderline that cannot be crossed.” ther was a very handsome man, like all Rhimes, who is behind shows such as She added that she has reached out to the Guccis, and very tall, blue eyes and Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal”, has told Sir Ridley’s wife, Giannina Facio, who very elegant. Vanity Fair that she did not expect a has previously met with members of the “He is being played by Al Pacino, who backlash to Page’s departure, saying, family, regarding their issues with the is not very tall already, and this photo “I was really shocked, because usually film – but has heard no response. shows him as fat, short, with sideburns, that happens when I’ve killed off some- Patrizia also threatened to take fur- really ugly. Shameful, because he does- body that’s been around for a while. ther action after viewing the film. n’t resemble him at all.” “Like, we didn’t kill him, he’s still Their issues range from the actors Meanwhile, Jared Leto, who is play- alive! (Page) is a powerful, amazing cast, to the lack of communication the ing Paolo Gucci, was pictured with un- actor and that meant we did our job – production company have had with the kempt hair and wearing a lilac corduroy every season, our job is finding the Gucci family, and the numerous inaccu- suit – something Patrizia said “of- right people and putting together this racies in the book on which the film is fended” her. incredible, world-shifting romance.” based. The Gucci family has not been in- She said, “We made a one-season deal In the film, Al Pacino plays Guccio volved with the fashion house since with him at the beginning of season Gucci’s eldest son Aldo, whose grand- 1993, after Maurizio sold his shares to one. That was the plan: come and do daughter says she remembers him as the Bahrain-based company, Investcorp. one season as the duke. Anything else Rege-Jean Page starred as the show’s being an adept businessman who Gucci was later bought by the French that was extra and wasn’t really the lead, the Duke of Hastings, and proved helped expand Gucci’s global reach. group PPR, which is now Kering. plan when we started, wasn’t the plan popular among fans of the raunchy Speaking about paparazzi photos Salma Hayek, who is married to the when we finished. period drama. from set, Patrizia stated, “My grandfa- CEO of Kering, appears in the film. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 21

With a return to live music, ACM awards show airs Sunday n Nashville, Tennessee, the tradi- cluding co-hosts Keith Urban and tional home of country songs, the Mickey Guyton, as well as genre stars IAcademy of Country Music will hold Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Maren its annual awards show on Sunday, in- Morris and Luke Combs. corporating small venue live broad- Urban, the 2019 Entertainer of the casts from classic genre landmarks. Year winner, returns after hosting last With the coronavirus pandemic still year, while ACM nominee Guyton will ongoing, for a second year the awards be the first Black woman to host the will take place in multiple smaller sites ceremony. Jennifer Lopez, the Foo Fighters (Dave Grohl pictured) and H.E.R. will star in a around Nashville rather than the usual “I’m beyond thrilled to be co-hosting global streaming and broadcast special on May 8 to raise money for COVID-19 Las Vegas venue. with my friend Mickey,” Urban said in vaccines. The 56th ACM Awards will, however, a statement. “I love that everyone will feature mostly in-person performances get to see her infectious energy and before live audiences – including at uber creative spirit in full light.” Nashville’s emblematic Grand Ole Guyton’s performance of her criti- J-Lo, H.E.R. and Foo Fighters Opry House. cally acclaimed song “What Are You The ACM award show is set to air Gonna Tell Her” at last year’s show fea- Sunday at 8 pm ET (0000 GMT) on tured Urban as a surprise guest on to star in streamed concert CBS and Paramount+, with a lineup of piano. more than two dozen performers, in- She was nominated for new female artist of the year and will sing her sin- to fund COVID-19 vaccines gle, “Black Like Me.” LONDON – Singers Jennifer Lopez and equal access to vaccines for all. Morris and Chris Stapleton lead this and H.E.R. will star in a global stream- “The reality is that right now many year’s nominations, with six each. ing and broadcast special on May 8 to of the wealthiest nations are starting to Morris got nods for “The Bones” as both raise money for COVID-19 vaccines, stockpile vaccines,” said Evans, adding song of the year and single of the year. following last year’s “One World – the broadcast would urge nations to do- Stapleton, a nominee for both best Together at Home” fundraiser in which nate excess doses and give financial male artist and entertainer, is also up locked-down stars including Lady Gaga support to the COVAX facility, backed for song of the year for “Starting Over” performed from their homes. by the World Health Organization as both artist and songwriter. “VAX LIVE: The Concert to Reunite (WHO) and the Global Alliance for Miranda Lambert follows with five the World” will be hosted by singer Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI). nominations. She is the most nomi- Selena Gomez and also feature the Foo COVAX aims to secure 2 billion vac- nated female artist in the Academy his- Fighters and Eddie Vedder, according cine doses for lower-income countries tory, with a total of 68 in her lifetime. to organiser Global Citizen, an interna- by the end of 2021. This time around, her “Blue Bird” is tional advocacy group. “The great news is there have al- nominated for single, video and song of “This is really an opportunity to call ready been many nations around the the year. on world leaders to make sure that the world that are starting to donate The 2020 show saw an unprece- 27 million heroic healthcare workers doses,” Evans said. “Australia, for ex- dented tie for entertainer of the year around the world that don’t yet have ample, donated a million doses to between Carrie Underwood and access to a vaccine can get access over Papua New Guinea. We know the Thomas Rhett. the coming months,” Global Citizen Norwegian government Rhett has been nominated for the Chief Executive Hugh Evans told decided to make a donation of doses. same award this year, alongside previ- Reuters. “There’s really great momentum that Keith Urban is set to co-host the ACM ous winner Bryan, as well as Combs, The event will also campaign for fair is building,” he added. Awards this Sunday. Stapleton and Eric Church.

David Beckham to mentor young footballers in new Disney+ series DAVID BECKHAM will mentor young credible.” grassroots footballers in a new Disney+ Sean Doyle, who will executive-pro- factual series. duce the show for Disney, described it as The sports star, who has played for “exciting, dramatic, uplifting and full of clubs including Manchester United and heart and courage – everything David Real Madrid, will return to the east had in his own playing days”. London pitches where his life in the Beckham began playing football game began, to support a struggling in parks and at school in Chingford, team. east London, before signing on as a The former England footballer will schoolboy for Manchester United on his take the players, their coaches and com- 14th birthday. munities on “an uplifting, transforma- He made his first team debut in 1992 tive journey of a lifetime,” according to when he was 17 and went on to win the Disney. Premier League six times,FA Cup twice The show, called Save Our Squad, will and was part of the club’s treble-winning be made by production company Twenty side in 1999 when United lifted the Twenty and Studio 99, the global con- UEFA Champions League trophy. tent and production studio co-founded by He then played four seasons with Real Beckham. Madrid before moving to LA Galaxy in “It is fantastic to be making Save Our 2007 on a five-year contract. Squad with Twenty Twenty and to shine Beckham was often ranked as one of a light on the kind of grassroots football the highest earning footballers in the that I experienced growing up,” he said. world. “I was so fortunate to have a long and He has been married to Victoria successful playing career and now to Beckham since 1999 and they have four have the opportunity to give back to children; Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and The former footballer is keen to give back to the communities in east London these communities as a mentor is in- Harper. which helped launch his career. 22 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

YouTuber Jake Paul denies sexual assault allegations ouTuber Jake Paul has denied younger brother of fellow Internet that he sexually assaulted a celebrity Logan Paul. YTikTok star in 2019, calling the In the video, she said that the allegations “100% false”. YouTuber-turned-boxer forced her to Justine Paradise shared a 20-minute perform oral sex on him, and also YouTube video earlier in the week, de- touched her without consent. tailing her allegations against Paul, the She said that the two of them met several times from June 2019, with them meeting up at Paul’s California home – known as the Team 10 house. Britney Spears According to Paradise, the alleged assault took place in July of that year. She said that Paul, 24, took her to his says she’s room before he assaulted her, despite her telling him “no”. ‘flattered’ world “He didn’t ask for consent or any- thing,” Paradise alleged. “That’s not okay. On no level at all is that okay.” is ‘concerned Paradise added that she would have Jake Paul has responded to sexual assault allegations. come forward sooner, but had signed a with my life’ non-disclosure agreement when “Not only have I never had any sexual “I respect women and mothers more she entered his house and thought relationship with this individual, but than anything. I most certainly have BRITNEY SPEARS has told fans she is it would have breached the contract. this claim is solely a manufactured ac- never laid a finger on a girl without “flattered” that people are concerned Responding on social media, Paul cusation and a blatant attempt for at- their consent.” about her wellbeing. said the allegations are “100% false”, tention during a highly visible fight Paul also said that he will “fight this It comes after a string of reports about and suggested the timing of the week.” to the end to prove my innocence”, her conservatorship battle, and rumours allegations was designed to draw Paul, who has more than 20 million calling the allegations “preposterous”. that she is not in control of her own so- attention from his upcoming boxing YouTube subscribers, said he plans to He added, “As someone who has lived cial media channels. match against former UFC fighter sue Paradise over the allegations, in the spotlight since the age of 16, Writing on Instagram, alongside clips Ben Askren. claiming she is guilty of defamation. dealing with liars, fake news, and false of herself staring at the camera, Spears “Sexual assault accusations aren’t “There are irreparable damages from accusations unfortunately is a part of said: “Happy to share especially with a something that I, or anyone should ever these types of accusations, and more this job. I won’t back down from it and world that is empathetic and concerned take lightly, but to be crystal clear, this importantly, false allegations of this na- years from now my character as [an] with my life... what can I say I’m claim made against me is 100% false,” ture diminish those who have truly been individual will show and shine through FLATTERED”. he said. victims of misconduct,” he added. these dark moments.” She also wrote about an upcoming project called “Just a Touch of Rose” – something she has previously said is a “personal photo project”. A growing movement known as The Rock for president? I’ll run if the #FreeBritney claims the star is not in control of her own content, and wants to see an end to her court-ordered conser- vatorship. people want it, says Dwayne Johnson Speaking earlier in the year, Cassie Petrey, who runs Spears’ accounts via THE professional wrestler turned star CrowdSurf, attempted to set the record actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson said straight, saying: “Britney creates her on Monday that he would run for US own posts and writes her own captions president if he felt he had enough sup- for Instagram. port from Americans. “She finds the Google images, Johnson, 48, one of the highest-paid Pinterest images, quotes, memes and and most popular actors in the United everything else herself. Nobody is sug- States, has been flirting with a possible gesting any of that stuff to her.” White House bid for several years. Fans often comment on her videos and “I do have that goal to unite our coun- pictures asking if she is okay, or suggest- try and I also feel that if this is what the ing there is a hidden meaning in her people want, then I will do that,” photos. Johnson said when asked about his Spears’ conservatorship was the focus presidential ambitions in an interview of The New York Times documentary broadcast on the Today show on Framing Britney Spears earlier in the Monday. year, with the singer saying it reduced The ex-wrestler did not say which her to tears. party he would represent or when he She said on Instagram that she “cried might launch any bid for the White for two weeks,” adding, “and well... I still House. cry sometimes!!!!”. His remarks follow an online public However, the #FreeBritney movement opinion poll released last week that believes the post in question was not found some 46% of Americans would written by her, and instead by a third consider voting for Johnson. party. Johnson, whose work includes the re- Dwayne Johnson, 48, is one of the highest-paid and most popular actors in the The 39-year-old has previously asked booted Jumanji movie franchise and the United States. for her father’s involvement in her court TV show Young Rock, joins a long list of arrangement to be removed, after a pro- American celebrities who have run for Ventura who became governor of McConaughey and former Olympic fessional took over on a temporary basis. political office. Minnesota and former actor Ronald champion and reality TV star Caitlyn A fresh hearing on Spears’ conserva- They include Terminator star Arnold Reagan who become president as did Jenner are reported to be weighing po- torship is due to take place in Los Schwarzenegger who became governor former “Apprentice” star Donald Trump. tential runs for governor in Texas and Angeles on April 27. of California, former wrestler Jesse More currently actor Matthew California respectively. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 23

Nick Cannon expecting Twin Sons with Abby De La Rosa

ick Cannon and gels. I pray that God give that forgiveness is key Cannon already has Abby De La Rosa you both the strength to and what is for you – is four other children. In Nannounced walk brave and boldly in for YOU! You both are December, Cannon and Sunday (April 11) that your individual truthjust already so loved and we partner Brittany Bell an- they are expecting twin like your Daddy,” can’t wait to meet you nounced the birth of their boys. De la Rosa posted De La Rosa wrote in both,” the post continued. daughter, Powerful a long message to Insta- an IG post that accompa- In March, De La Rosa Queen Cannon. The gram, while posing with nied her maternity pic, dropped a hint that couple has a son together the Masked Singer host, in which she displays Cannon was the father of named Golden “Sagon” calling the twins her her baby bump alongside her unborn kids when Cannon. “miracle babies.” a shirtless Cannon. she “spun a set for Club The Masked Singer “Thank you for “Your Dad & I will al- Tummy” in front of host also has twins – choosing me to be your ways be here for you Cannon’s business logo, Monroe and Moroccan Mommy. I know the Lord both; in complete unison according to PEOPLE. Scott – with his ex-wife has destined me and pre- and support. No matter Mariah Carey.The two pared me for the gift of what this world may How Many Kids Does were together for eight not one but two little an- throw your way, know Nick Cannon Have? years from 2008-2016.

‘Home Alone’ actor Culkin and former Disney Channel star Song welcomed the arrival of their first child, Dakota Song Culkin earlier this week. Macaulay Culkin, Brenda Song welcome first child together

MACAULAY CULKIN CNN and first reported and Brenda Song have by Esquire. welcomed a new baby. Culkin and Song met a The couple welcomed a few years ago on the set son named Dakota Song of “Changeland.” They Culkin, after the actor’s both had roles in the late sister, Dakota, movie. who died in 2008 at Culkin is currently age 29. filming “American Horror The baby was born on Story” season 10 with April 5 in Los Angeles. Sarah Paulson, Kathy “We’re overjoyed,” Bates, Billie Lourd, Evan Culkin and Song said in a Peters, Lily Rabe and Nick Cannon And Abby De La Rosa Are Expecting Twin Sons statement obtained by Finn Wittrock. Kanye West asks for joint custody of children in divorce filing

KANYE WEST has 19. Now the rapper “The couple has been responded to Kim Kard- and entrepreneur has done for a while and have ashian’s divorce filing. officially responded to his been amicable for a while. In his own response estranged wife’s divorce At the end of the day, filed last Friday and petition. Kanye and Kim love each obtained by CNN, West According to ET Online, other immensely but knew has requested joint legal Kardashian’s divorce filing it was time to call it quits,” and physical custody asks for joint legal and ET reports.“Their children of their four children. physical custody of their are their number one Neither party is seeking four children: North, 7, priority, and no matter spousal support. Saint, 5, Chicago 3, and what will maintain a posi- Representatives for Psalm 1. The outlet notes tive relationship for them.” West had no comment. that the former couple do The Keeping Up With Kardashian filed for not plan to contest their the Kardashians star and divorce back in February. prenup and a property the rapper began dating in The couple had been settlement agreement April 2012. At the time, living apart for several is currently in the Kardashian was still months, with West works. legally married to Kris living in Wyoming and On Friday (April 9) West Humphries, from whom Kardashian in their responded to the petition she split after only 72 days California home. and agreed to joint and of marriage. Her divorce The two met in the early legal physical custody of was finalised in June 2013. 2000s and later married his children. Still, he asked Her first marriage was to in a lavish ceremony to terminate the court’s music producer Damon in 2014. ability to award spousal Thomas before they Kim Kardashian filed for support and attorney’s divorced in 2004. Kanye West has agreed to joint custody of his and Kim Kardashian's four young divorce from her husband, fees to Kardashian This was Kanye’s first children. His response mirrors Kardashian's divorce filing from February 19, Kanye West, on February or West. marriage. which began the process of ending their almost seven year marriage. 24 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez have ended their engagement. Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez officially announce breakup Jennifer Lopez and Lopez told CNN in a you to everyone who has have been in a relation- Alex Rodriguez say statement first reported sent kind words and ship since 2017. The they are better off by NBC. “We will con- support.” couple have been as friends. tinue to work together The news of their split engaged since March The stars announced and support each other on comes one month after 2019. yesterday that they are our shared businesses they clarified reports It would have been the officially ending their and projects. We wish the they had broken up fourth marriage for two-year engagement. best for each other and and told CNN at the Lopez, who divorced “We have realised we one another’s children. time that they were singer Marc Anthony in are better as friends and Out of respect for them, “working through some 2014, and the second for look forward to remaining the only other comment things.” Rodriguez, who has been so,” a representative for we have to say is thank Rodriguez and Lopez divorced since 2008. Bridge The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 25 SSPPOORRTTSS Wisden names West Indies’ Jason Holder in Top 5 FORMER West Indies England’s Ben Stokes as seen a list of great play- gent athlete, he should captain and world the Leading Cricketer West Indies’ Keiron Pollard leads T20 ers who have etched get even better.” number one all- in the World for the sec- their names in history. Jimmy Adams, CWI’s rounder in Test ond year in a row, while to England. During the among the elite list. The last recipient from Director of Cricket, said: cricket, Jason Holder, Australia’s Beth Mooney tour, Holder finished “This award means so West Indies was Shai “On behalf of all of us has been named as has been awarded the with a six-for at the much to me. I’m de- Hope in 2017 and after at Cricket West Indies, one of Wisden’s five title of Leading Woman Ageas Bowl as the West lighted that my efforts seeing his performances, I want to congratulate Cricketers of the Year. Cricketer in the World. Indies won the first Test to play well and make a it inspired me to be one of Jason on his being se- The other four are West Indies white ball after the outbreak of contribution have been the Wisden Cricketers of lected as one of Wisden’s England’s batsmen Dom captain, Kieron Pollard, COVID-19 led to a global bearing fruit and I just the future.” Five Cricketers of the Sibley and Zak Crawley, was named as the lead- shutdown of sport. want to continue and Ricky Skerritt, Year. In a period that has Pakistan’s wicketkeeper ing T20 Cricketer in the Holder also led the reach higher heights,” President of CWI, said: thrown up many chal- Mohammad Rizwan and World. West Indies in the Black he said. “Congratulations to lenges, he has performed UK’s Darren Stevens. Holder led the regional Lives Matter movement, “To be named one Jason, whose all-round consistently with distinc- The report, which was side to the restart of in- taking a knee before the of the five Wisden cricket excellence is tion and dignity both on published on the Wisden ternational cricket in a start of each match. Cricketers of the Year is making all West Indians and off the field and we website on Wednesday bubble-secure environ- Holder expressed great something truly special, proud. For such a rela- wish him all the success evening, has named ment with the first tour delight at being named as over the years I have tively young and intelli- possible going forward.” IPL: Morris stars as Rajasthan Royals beat Delhi Capitals by three wickets CHRIS MORRIS hit two in Royal’s four-run loss to sixes in the final over as Punjab Kings on Monday Rajasthan Royals beat – was caught behind for Delhi Capitals by three two. wickets in the Indian David Miller then of- Premier League. fered some hope for the Chasing 148 to win, Royals with a fine knock Delhi needed 12 from the of 62 from 43 balls. last six balls, bowled by The South African – England’s Tom Curran. who replaced Ben Stokes Morris – who is the in the Royals line-up after IPL’s most expensive ever the England all-rounder signing – finished with 36 was ruled out of the tour- from 18 balls and saw his nament with a broken side over the line with finger – hit seven bound- two balls to spare. aries and two sixes. Earlier, Delhi posted When Miller was dis- 147-8 with Rishabh Pant missed by Avesh Khan, scoring 51 from 32 balls. Royals still needed 44 Having lost the toss runs from 25 balls. and put into bat, Delhi – But Morris took on the who thrashed Chennai reigns, launching the ball Super Kings by seven to all parts of the ground wickets in their opening and holding his nerve to game – fell to 37-4 after seal the win. 7 overs. Seamer Jaydev SUMMARISED Unadkat bowled su- SCORECARD perbly,varying his length Indian Premier and pace to finish with League figures of 3-15, while Delhi Capitals 147-8 Mustafizur Rahman also Chris Morris became the IPL’s most expensive ever auction signing after he was signed for £1.6m by (20 overs): Pant 51, T chipped in with 2-29. Rajasthan Royals. Curran 21; Unadkat 3-15 Pant’s half-century, Rajasthan Royals 150-7 which included hitting resistance before the With a relatively low Chris Woakes took two Buttler. (19.4 overs): Miller 62, spinner Rahul Tewatia Delhi captain was run out target to chase, Royals’ wickets in the third over, Buttler – promoted to Morris 36*, Khan 3-32 for four boundaries in the by a direct hit from Riyan top-order faltered as they including the dismissal of the top of the order hav- Rajasthan Royals won 11th over, offered some Parag. fell to 42-5. England team-mate Jos ing batted at number four by three wickets Man Utd to face Roma in Europa League Rampant Arsenal win in Prague to set final four after beating Granada up semi-final against Emery’s Villareal

EDINSON CAVANI’S smart finish to Paul been sidelined in recent THE night had potential opening period. thereafter and Lacazette first-half volley was the Pogba’s sixth-minute weeks with a knee injury. to be a nervy affair with Nicolas Pepe squeezed smashed his second low highlight as Manchester flicked header. It was a notable night the tie evenly poised at home at the near post into the net in the latter United eased past La United scored a second for Cavani, whose his 1-1, but the Gunners pro- to open the scoring in stages. Liga side Granada at Old in stoppage time when first European goal for duced one of their best the 18th minute before The Gunners will face Trafford to book a Europa Jesus Vallejo turned Alex United was his 50th in performances of the cam- Alexandre Lacazette con- Villarreal – managed by League semi-final with Telles’ cross into his own total in continental com- paign to keep alive their verted a penalty three former Arsenal boss Roma. net. petition. hopes of European qual- minutes later following a Unai Emery – in the last Leading 2-0 from the As Roma came through It was the 34-year-old’s ification for next season. foul on Bukayo Saka. four. first leg of their quarter- a nervy night at the ninth of the season over- They scored three Saka coolly swept in Manchester United final in Spain last week, Stadio Olimpico against all and will intensify talk goals in the opening 24 the third as Arsenal tore meet Roma in the other Cavani took away any Ajax, it means a reunion about whether he will minutes and had another their Czech opponents semi-final after Ole lingering doubt over for United old boys sign an extension to his ruled out by the video as- apart once more. Gunnar Solskjaer’s side United reaching the last Henrikh Mkhitaryan and contract, which expires at sistant referee – all-but Mikel Arteta’s side con- comfortably saw off four when he provided a Chris Smalling, who has the end of June. ending the contest in the trolled the game expertly Granada. 26 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Russia unveils flagless uniforms for Tokyo Games

RUSSIAN competitors at this year’s Tokyo Olympics will be wearing blue, red and white uniforms, but their country’s tricolour flag will not ap- pear because of doping sanctions. ZASPORT, the supplier of the Russian Olympic team, unveiled uniforms on Wednesday that bore the logo of the Russian Olympic Committee instead of the country’s flag. The logo of the Russian Olympic Committee consists of three flames in the colours of the national flag with the Olympic rings below them. Russian athletes are barred from com- peting at major international events, in- cluding the Olympics, under their flag and with their anthem until 2022 following a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) last year. The sanctions, initially imposed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) but later halved to two years after an appeal, were designed to punish Moscow for providing global anti-doping authorities with doctored laboratory data that could have helped identify drug cheats. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) published guidelines in February pertaining to uniforms and other aspects The uniforms of the Russian Olympic team designed by ZASPORT, the official clothing supplier for national athletes com- of competition. It said at the time that peting in this year’s Tokyo Olympics, are seen during its presentation in Moscow, Russia April 14, 2021. Russians would compete as representa- tives of the Russian Olympic Committee from the past two Olympics and the punishment for state-sponsored doping in its implementation of anti-doping under the acronym “ROC”. country deprived of its flag at the 2018 at the 2014 Sochi Games. policies, denies running a state-sponsored Many Russian athletes were barred Pyeongchang Winter Games as Russia, which has acknowledged issues doping programme. CEO: Australia must prepare for swimmers to miss out on COVID-19 vaccine SWIMMING Australia (SA) hopes its Baumann and SA President Kieren Olympic team will receive COVID-19 Perkins said no swimmers had ap- vaccines before the Tokyo Games but proached them with concerns about vac- must prepare for the scenario that cinations or the narrow time-frame to they miss out, the governing body’s have them before Tokyo. newly appointed Chief Executive Perkins said he would not want to influ- said on Thursday. ence athletes on their decision to have Australia has restricted the roll-out of vaccines if they became available but said Fears grow that Australian swimmers won’t be vaccinated for Tokyo Olympics. its favoured AstraZeneca vaccine to peo- he would gladly take the AstraZeneca ple under 50 over blood clotting concerns, shot. problem taking the AstraZeneca vaccine “From the minute that I’m able to, I’ll be slowing the national vaccination “As an Australian citizen who is under myself,” the 47-year-old former Olympic lining up at the door and going in to programme further after the European 50, I’ve seen the stats and I don’t have any champion told reporters. get it.” Union blocked exports to the country. The sluggish roll-out has raised concerns Australia’s athletes could miss out on vaccines, even as rival nations race ahead with inoculations for their Olympians before Tokyo. Formula One Canadian Grand Prix “We have to prepare for the worst. We have to prepare that the athletes won’t be vaccinated,” SA CEO Alex Baumann told cancelled for second straight year reporters at the national championships on the Gold Coast on Thursday. “But it really is a choice for the THE Canadian Grand Prix has been Formula One officials had also appealed Trudeau obtained by Radio-Canada, athletes. We’re not going to make it cancelled for the second straight year due to various levels of government to F1 group president Stefano Domenicali compulsory. Obviously it would be to concerns by Montreal public health invest $6 million to compensate race had outlined the measures put in place preferable to have the athletes vaccinated. authorities about the risk of spreading organisers for the lack of spectators at to prevent outbreaks of COVID-19 We’ll encourage that.” COVID-19 during the Formula One event, the event which usually attracts throughout the season. Australia said on Tuesday a second per- Radio-Canada is reporting. thousands of tourists from around the F1 officials had also proposed creating son had been diagnosed with a blood clot Earlier this week, Radio-Canada re- world. a bubble, where the members of different after receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine. ported that provincial health authorities F1 officials were also asking to bypass teams would stay in hotels, use private Australian authorities recommend peo- in Quebec would allow the event to take Canada’s mandatory 14-day quarantine transportation and be tested regularly. ple who receive the first dose of the place under certain conditions, but it ap- for the hundreds of staff, crew members However, they would have been in AstraZeneca vaccine have a booster after pears that municipal health authorities and drivers flying in from Baku, constant contact with hundreds of volun- 12 weeks to maximise immunity. concluded the risk of holding the iconic Azerbaijan, where a race is scheduled the teers who would be outside the bubble. The opening ceremony for the Tokyo race was too high even behind closed doors weekend before. Montreal public health, faced with those Olympics will be held on July 23. and without spectators. In a letter to Prime Minister Justin issues, decided to cancel the event. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 27

Hamilton describes F1 title rivalry with Vettel as greatest in his career LEWIS HAMILTON has ac- “Mine and Seb’s battle were knowledged his battles with my favourite so far,” Hamilton Sebastian Vettel for the said. “It’s knowing I was racing Formula One world champi- against an incredible driver, not onship as the greatest so far only that but a great man in Seb in his career. The world who is a four-time world cham- champion, speaking before pion and we were racing against this weekend’s Emilia another team, he was at Ferrari Romagna Grand Prix who were very strong at the at Imola, described his time. It took a lot out of both of us previous battles with Vettel in that period of time, to remain Lewis Hamilton described his previous battles with Sebastian Vettel as the best in his career. as draining. focused to deliver weekend in, In 2017 and 2018 Hamilton weekend out. That was a diffi- pulled off a tactical coup, gaining the background that Seb has but e Dino Ferrari will make and Vettel, who was then driving cult period for us and it brought track position through the stops he has the chance to be a future overtaking tricky lending for Ferrari, were in a closely us closer,because the respect we and allowing Hamilton to go on champion,” Hamilton said. particular significance to fought contest for the champi- have between us is huge.” to defend his lead with great “Whether that is now or later de- qualifying this weekend, where onship. In both years Ferrari en- Hamilton is attempting to se- skill. pends on the job ultimately that Red Bull can expect to have joyed a quicker car for at least cure a record eighth drivers’ This is the first time the team and I do. maintained their advantage half the season during which championship this year. The 36- Verstappen has had the car to “I can’t guess what is ahead, over Mercedes. Vettel enjoyed an early lead year-old Briton won the opening mount a serious championship it’s exciting for the fans and I Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team on points, but Mercedes round in Bahrain – Vettel, now at challenge and go toe-to-toe with hope that it’s all that it’s cracked principal, said: “We may have and Hamilton turned it Aston Martin, was down in 15th Hamilton, who accepted he was up to be. We need the best enter- won the first round, but we’re around and ultimately won – but it was a victory very much likely once more to face a stern tainment possible for the fans, under no illusions that this will the championships. The pair against the odds. Red Bull had test and one that might yet turn we just want to be fighting with be a straightforward season.The developed a strong mutual the better pace at the Sakhir cir- into a classic rivalry. the best drivers.” car is still lacking pace over a respect in a hard but fairly cuit and Max Verstappen was “It’s different now if I am rac- The narrow track of the single lap and Red Bull appear to contested fight. formidably quick but Mercedes ing with Max, he doesn’t have Autodromo Internazionale Enzo have the edge right now.” Leclerc: Ferrari have made ‘significant step forward’ in 2021

CHARLES LECLERC says Ferrari’s strong start has seen Ferrari’s F1 comeback is in full them emerge as one of the swing after taking a “significant favourites for third, along with step forward” with their 2021 car McLaren – who took that – but insists the team won’t let a position last year and were the close battle for third distract other midfield team to score them from their big long-term points with both cars in the goal. season-opener. Ferrari arrive for the Emilia- “I think the realistic goal for Romagna GP for one of their two this year would be to be just Italian home races on the back of behind Red Bull and Mercedes,” an encouraging start to the Leclerc stated. “Realistically season in Bahrain, with both I think it’s going to be very diffi- Leclerc and new team-mate cult to fight with them, we are Carlos Sainz scoring points in too far behind for now but we are the top 10. While that may not in the fight with four or five other sound like too big an achieve- teams for third place in the ment for F1’s most successful constructors’. team, it was a much-needed “It’s going to be a tight fight but early-season boost after if we do everything perfect finishing sixth in 2020 – the I think it’s reachable.” Scuderia’s worst season in four decades. Leclerc explains Ferrari’s “It is a step forward. A long-term mentality significant step forward,” said Leclerc is certainly optimistic Leclerc as he spoke about about Ferrari’s 2021 but remains Ferrari’s new and improved adamant that both he and the SF1000 car. team want much more than “We’ve seen in Bahrain battling in the midfield. we’ve made a better progression “We are still not fighting where Charles Leclerc is excited to be competing for Ferrari in Italy at Imola Circuit. compared to the other teams we want to be fighting, we are from last year to this year,so this putting all of our efforts into get- a major car and rules overhaul in difficult when we realised season, I think everyone is well is positive. ting back where we want to be 2022. the reality of things and that we aware there is much more to gain “It’s an overall improvement. which is fighting for wins,” said Ferrari have openly admitted were really a step down of 2019. to prepare for 2022 in the right The power feels better. The the Monegasque. that more of their focus is on next But we went through this way because these new cars will balance in the corners and But with fighting for wins year - something Leclerc is process in a good way I think and last for much longer,many years the actual grip feels better. It’s seemingly impossible this year, perfectly happy with. we started to work to reconstruct after 2022. not one thing in particular, it’s Ferrari, like many other teams, “I think the mentality is right, the whole project. “We need to be ready for that. that the whole package feels are left in the tricky position of of this I have no doubt and “I don’t think we are getting I think we are getting ready as better and this is positive for the trying to progress this year,while I think we are working well,” he carried away by the fight [for we should for these changes so future.” keeping their attention fixed on explained.“The start of 2020 was third] there will be during the I’m not worried about that.” 28 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

REAL ESTATE Wimbledon set to have new 8,000-seat show

TEL: 247-4469 court from 2030 Cel: 828-4800 253-6319 A NEW 8 000-seat show which all have a bigger a further 1 000 trees Email: court will be part third arena. planted, including caribbeanpropertiesltd of Wimbledon’s expan- In 2018 Wimbledon’s historic species. @gmail.com sion into neighbour- £65m bid to acquire Capacity will be ing parkland. The the land from Wimbledon increased from 42 000 to PROPERTIES second consultation Park Golf Club was 50 000 spectators per day, document on plans accepted, and the which should make the Kirtons, St Philip for the All England club anticipates submit- grounds significantly less 3 bedroom plus Club’s use of the ting a planning applica- crowded, while Church 2 bedroom apt 4,790 sq ft 73-acre site sets out tion in July with work Road – which bisects $685,000 a broad picture of beginning in January the two halves of the site how it will look. 2022 if the process – will be closed during Amity Lodge, Ch Ch REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE 3 bedroom plus The new show court, goes smoothly. the Championships, 1 bedroom apt which will have a There will be 39 new partly for security retractable roof and be courts but, other than reasons. 6,646 sq ft $650,000 Bushy Park, St. Philip Bagatelle, St. Thomas set within a ring of the show court, the A chief motivation for 17,000 sq ft $170,000 62000 sq ft into 2 lots Gibbons, Ch Ch $520,000 each, or ancient oak trees, remainder will only have acquiring the parkland 3 bedroom plus Inchcape, St. Philip $1M for both will be the only temporary seating with was to enable qualifying 2 bedroom apt 4355 sq ft $ 96,000 major structure and is Wimbledon’s priority for the tournament to be 9,835 sq ft Marley Vale, St Philip expected to be ready being a sensitive held on site. It is played $675,000 (reduced) Belle, St. George 21,780 sq ft $275,000 to host matches in development of the park at nearby Roehampton 4 acres $400,000 2030. It will be the which was landscaped by but the plan is for it to be Breezy Hill, St Philip Sandford, St Philip third-biggest court Capability Brown in the moved by 2028. 3 bedroom, 2 bath Haggatt Hall, St. Michael 16,356 sq ft $300,000 at Wimbledon after 18th century. Central to A new energy centre reduced to $298,000 6336 sq ft $126,000 Centre Court and Court the plans is a restoration located in the park, Under Offer One, and will bring of areas of the land meanwhile, will play a Black Rock, St Michael COMMERCIAL the tournament into in keeping with Brown’s key role in Wimbledon’s 3 bedroom, 1 bath Cane Garden, St. Thomas line with the other vision. The serpentine plans to be carbon 6732 sq ft $360,000 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft Mount Standfast, St James grand slam tournaments, lake will be restored and neutral by 2030. Private entrance. Two properties on Enterprise, Christ Church From $187,681 22,714 sq ft. 3 bedroom, 2 bath Asking $1,200,000 5062 sq ft Ragged Point, St. Philip $390,000 (reduced) 8,267 sq ft $166,000 Black Rock, St. Michael Human Rights group head: Warehouse/Storage The Belle, St George Rolling Hills, St. George 4000 sf space 23,861 sq ft Plantation style House 12,000 sq ft $900,000 (reduced) Standing on 4 acres $310,000 (negotiable) Athletes have real concerns $1.1M Foul Bay, St. Philip Ocean City, St. Philip Approved for condos, Frere Pilgrim, 6150 sq ft $123,000 39,242 sq ft $1,600,000. Christ Church about Beijing 2022 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Fortesque, St Philip Dover, Christ Church two bedroom apartment. Agricultural Land Hotel 18 rooms fully ATHLETES have legiti- gold at the 1996 Atlanta would like more informa- 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 494,500 sq ft $1,100,000 operational $2,950,000 neg mate concerns about the Olympics, Harvey said tion to disprove what under offer Beijing 2022 Winter sport was more aware of they are fearful of. Hanson Heights, St George Silver Sands, Olympics and organisers human rights than ever “In the absence of that, 8321 sq ft $595,000 Christ Church Dalkeith, Christ Church need to be transparent in and athletes and fans it probably will get worse 7,129 sq ft $160,000 17,371 sq ft approved for addressing them, says were asking more before the Games... it Ealing Grove, shops and offices the Centre for Sport questions. could be they come off Christ Church Bushy Park, St. Philip $495,000 and Human Rights chief “They do care about without a hitch, it could 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths 24,000 sq ft $190,000 executive Mary Harvey. where products were be that you are going to 9320 sq ft $565,000 Roebuck Street, Apes Hill, St. James Human rights groups made that they might be have athletes saying Bridgetown have urged the purchasing, they care things or protesting. LOTS FOR SALE 31,000 sq ft upward Shopping Mall/Office space International Olympic about whether or not That’s possible too. Large lots at $15 per sq ft $8,100,000 negotiable Boarded Hall, Committee (IOC) to take they are going to be in It’s their right to Christ Church Mount Wilton, St. Thomas Batts Rock, St Michael the Games out of China some cases safe or able to do so.” 10,429 sq ft $157,000 15,500 sq ft and 22,066 sq ft Guest House, 12,078 sq ft because of the treatment speak freely. They are le- As a former athlete, she $300,000 and $220,000 $2,850,000 negotiable of Uighur Muslims, along gitimate concerns,” she questioned whether boy- Westbury Road, St Michael with other human rights added. cotts worked and said it 2,520 sq ft $45,360 Union, St. Philip Cane Garden, St Thomas concerns. US Olympic champion was never good “when 7560 sq ft 3.6 acres approved China denies human skier Mikaela Shiffrin somebody takes the right Goodland Gardens, $150,000 Roadfront rights abuses. said in March she should to compete away”. Christ Church $1,650,000 negotiable “I’d like information not have to choose Harvey said the 9,605 sq ft $145,000 Thorpes, St. James and transparency of the between her “morals” and IOC, which awarded 11,376 sq ft with structure Fitts Village, St James situation,” Harvey said her “job” the Games, could play Nursery Road, St Philip $235,000 Guest House, 4 Suites when asked whether she “It’s building, it’s an essential role in 9,266 sq ft $139,000 6,135 sq ft was comfortable with the increasing in volume. upholding basic human Cottage, St George $750,000 negotiable Games taking place in People have concerns,” rights. Lashley Road, St Philip 5000 sq ft the country. said Harvey of criticism “If they choose not to 5,839 sq ft, $150,000 $110,000 (negotiable) Mason Hill Street The City “I think right now of the Games and calls take a position it’s not 26,500 sq ft with buildings in the absence of infor- for a boycott. because they are unable Salters, St George Morningside, St Philip $4,000,000 negotiable 2 lots 32,760 sq ft, $230,000 4567 sq ft $133,000 mation it’s difficult to say. “People who are advo- to,” she said. “I think it’s I think sunlight is the cating are becoming a choice they are making All enquiries to Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy Jupiter Gardens, St Peter (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 best antiseptic.” louder in their advocacy. opposed to something 14,876 sq ft. $110,000 7312 sq ft or (246) 247 4469 Goalkeeper for the US And they are asking for they are fundamentally $133,000 (negotiable) soccer team that won some information. They unable to do.” The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 29

Evans stuns world No.1 Djokovic in Monte Carlo BRITISH number one Dan hope and he held serve to Evans claimed the biggest take the set on his third set win of his career by beating point. Novak Djokovic in the last Djokovic raced into a 3-0 lead 16 of the Monte Carlo in the second set but Evans Masters. showed great determination to Evans, who has struggled on level it at 3-3. clay in recent times, started Evans saved a set point in the superbly against the world 10th game; then a dramatic number one, breaking him in double fault gave the Briton the his first two service games. chance to serve out for the win He was able to wrap up the and he made no mistake. opening set before Djokovic “To be honest, this has been fought back at the start of the one of the worst matches from second. my side I can recall in the last But Evans recovered and few years,” said Djokovic, who held his nerve to wrap up a 6-4 finished with 45 unforced 7-5 win. errors. It was Djokovic’s first defeat “I felt awful on the court over- of 2021 and Evans will face all. Nothing worked. Just one of world number 15 David Goffin those days. of Belgium in his first Masters “It was just an awful perform- Series quarter-final. ance. I can’t take any positives “He gave away some cheap away from this match. It defi- ones today,which he never nor- nitely leaves a bitter feeling mally does. But I’m just really exiting the court this way. happy,” said Evans. “He deserved to win. He was “He kept me waiting a little a better player. He was just bit in the changing room at the Dan Evans had never faced Novak Djokovic before. more focused I guess and start of the match. That got me played with a better quality in a bit extra fired up. doing too much running. In the first meeting between made it 3-2, but a lengthy sixth the decisive moments. “My game plan was to try to “But I also thought I did a the pair, Evans started aggres- game put Evans 4-2 up. “He’s really a nice player to bring him forward and have good job to get out of my sively and took advantage His chance in the set looked watch, not a great player to him hit the ball low in the service games. He had so many of some sloppy play from to have gone when a Djokovic play against. Lots of talent. He’s court. break points and didn’t take the 18-time Grand Slam win- break levelled it at 4-4 but an- very unpredictable with his “It was difficult to get to the them, so I was a little lucky ner. other careless service game shots. He dismantled my net and I felt sometimes I was there.” He led 3-0 before Djokovic from the Serb gave the Briton game.” 30 • Friday April 16, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Caster Semenya wins 5 000m Azarenka title in South African Athletics skips Stuttgart CASTER Semenya says she will not event to get attempt to qualify for the 200m at the Tokyo Olympics after defending her national 5,000m title in South Africa. COVID-19 The 30-year-old won the title in 15 min- utes 52.28 seconds – 42.48 seconds outside the Olympic qualifying time. vaccine Semenya will be unable to defend her 800m title after a controversial World TWO-time Australian Open Athletics rule change around testosterone champion Victoria Azarenka said levels in female runners. she has pulled out of next week’s “I’m getting old‚ I’m scared to tear my WTA 500 event in Stuttgart as muscles,” she said of the 200m event. it coincides with her scheduled The qualifying deadline for Tokyo is 29 COVID-19 vaccination. June. “I will unfortunately not be able Semenya is a two-time Olympic cham- to compete in Stuttgart ... next week pion in the 800m and won the 1,500m at as I will be receiving my first dosis the Commonwealth Games in 2018. (sic) of the vaccine at the same time,” But under World Athletics rules, she is the Belarusian world No. 15 said on not allowed to compete in events between Twitter. 400m and a mile unless she takes drugs While both the ATP and WTA to reduce her naturally high levels of Tours have encouraged athletes testosterone. to accept vaccine shots when She said in March 2019 that she would available some of the top aim to compete in the 200m in Tokyo, but players expressed a reluctance to now feels it would be too much pressure on get vaccinated at the recent Miami her body. Open. “We had to sit down and make sure that Under updated COVID-19 protocols the decision that we make makes sense. on the men’s tour, players who have Distance makes sense. been vaccinated are no longer consid- “We’re happy with what we’re doing‚ ered as close contacts of anyone we’re having fun. At training each and testing positive for the novel coron- every day, we don’t stress.” Caster Semenya is a two-time Olympic champion in the 800m. avirus. The Barbados Advocate Friday April 16, 2021 • 31

P R O HOROSCOPES S A ARIES (March 21-April 19). : There aren't N enough people prepared to break ranks to vote D against rules someone in power is making. You can see a number of reasons why a complaint would be C valid but for now you may have to keep your O thoughts quiet. You need to build up more support N before taking action. S TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Fake news is caus- ing problems and frustration when more people be- lieve false statements than the facts. You can't be- lieve how so many can base their decisions on wild rumours and strong emotional reactions. Your comments might interfere with the delivery of a group project but you can't keep your thoughts to yourself. GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Although you may Z not be able to pinpoint a specific health problem, I you aren't feeling as enthusiastic or as energetic as T normal. There is the possibility of tension being the S result of some heavier than usual career commit- ments. If you have taken on a more responsible po- sition, the stress could be affecting your health. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Avariety of sugges- tions would give you a chance to mix and mingle. Much to a friend's surprise you might decide to spend a little time on your own. Someone will point out you could be missing out on an event which will put you in touch with new people. It's hard to feel enthusiastic about socialising after R having spent so much time in isolation. E LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Achieving a balance be- X tween socialising and spending time on private af- fairs is something to strive for. Disruptions to work M or domestic routines are wearing on your nerves. O You're starting to feel exhausted with everything R that's being expected from you. A partner's com- G ments will inspire you to start taking better care of A yourself. N VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Some money news will change your life for the better. There's a touch of the whimsical about your mood and it seems that nothing will get you down. If you are taking risks, be certain they are calculated ones and remember to be sensible when making decisions of a practi- cal nature. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The efforts you are P making to improve a close relationship will work H better than expected. You aren't the only one to want to make amends after a recent argument. You A are also more in tune with colleagues and team- N mates. This encourages you to state your opinions T without fear of being ridiculed. O SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Even though you M won't be travelling as far as you would really like, a short trip will do a lot to lift your spirits. You long to travel further afield and there are places you would really like to see. Since this may not be pos- sible at this time, visiting a local beauty spot will help ease any tension. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Loving rela- tionships and close friendships provide the security M in your life you currently need. Without your A friends, you would feel lost and alone. Just being R able to pick up the phone and talk to someone Y makes you feel connected and safe. A thoughtful relative will offer you an heirloom that has strong sentimental value to you. W CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Take your time O before making important choices. If you are newly R married and trying to establish some ground rules T avoid sensitive issues like politics and religion. Sit down and talk about personal preferences and what H feels good to you both. Being open from the start is better than letting problems escalate. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). There's a hint of change in the air. You sense this but you seem to M be the only one. Nothing definite can be deter- O mined and because of this it will be best to bide your time. See what other people are planning be- T fore making personal commitments that may not go H down well with other members of the family. E PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You're hoping to R achieve something special but are you expecting to accomplish too much? Impatience can lead to dis- G appointment. Instead be prepared to make slow O and steady progress. If you're working in a team, O check that your teammates don't feel you are ex- S pecting too much from them as this could make E them edgy and uncooperative. IPL: Chris Morris stars

as Rajasthan Royals beat Delhi Capitals by 3 wickets Page 25

Friday April 16 2021 OAS has critical role ASHY to play, says Sir Hilary THE Organisation of American States (OAS) has a role to play in creating an environment or a forum where matters MESS of reparatory justice for the Caribbean could be Massive cleanup efforts in Rabacca discussed. This view was shared Dry River and Georgetown by Vice-Chancellor of The University of the By Krystal Penny Bowen located on the outskirts of West Indies, Professor Georgetown. Sir Hilary Beckles. He AS the La Soufrière was responding to the volcano continues to Collapsed roofs and question from Secretary erupt, Vincentians reported break-ins General of the OAS, Luis have started to clean The people of Georgetown, Almagro, about what the up the thick, heavy ash not far from the Rabacca OAS can do to be closer to deposits in waterways, Dry River, returned to the Caribbean people and rooftops and streets area to find many issues. how it can bring, in a on the mainland of St. Vincent’s IWitness more structural way, St. Vincent. News media reports ideas or arguments Over the past few days, showed that residents related to reparatory The Barbados Advocate were attempting to clear justice. received more images of the heavy ash from Heavy ash deposits at the Argyle International Airport have prevented airlift Addressing the devastation caused by rooftops. Periodical there. This week, workers attempted to remove the thick grey volcanic material Wednesday’s virtual La Soufrière.The Rabacca rainfall and falling ash from the roof and surrounding areas. discussion titled, ‘A Chat Dry River, located on the have caused structural with the OAS’ held on eastern side of St.Vincent, damage and leakage. Pan American Day, Sir is now a scene of baked Other residents, some of Hilary explained, “The ash, mud and debris. On them who have businesses issue of reparatory Monday, April 12, brave attached to their homes, justice is about sight-seekers ventured indicated that some completing the process into the red zone to individuals were breaking of Independence in the capture a video of the into their properties. One Caribbean. Completing popular river, which was Georgetown resident said the process of gushing with hot ash and he intended to stay behind decolonisation. It is also mud along the coastline. to protect his home. about working through The Director of The UWI a global development Seismic Research Centre Airport closed, cleanup agenda for this region.” (SRC), Dr. Erouscilla exercise started He further explained Joseph, in an audio clip on While communities try that the Caribbean “has Facebook, reported the to clean up, a major port been the most exploited event of lahar on April 11, of entry has started to economic zone that the 2021.This is when heated recover from the ongoing world has ever seen. It material from the volcano disaster. The Argyle was 500 years of that. mixes with rainwater. International Airport has Now, the consequences This phenomenon was not been able to operate of that 500 years of observed in the Rabacca since the heightened extraction has left the Dry River. activity of the La region in a pretty dismal Vonley Greaves, a Sion Soufrière volcano on circumstance. We have Hill resident who has April 9. The airport’s been cleaning up the provided up-to-date website has published colonial mess”. activities on the island, photos showing extensive He questioned, “What sent an image of a large cleaning exercises under if those countries that cleanup exercise at the way. had created this mess for Rabacca Dry River. A From the runway to the us, if they were to come large tracked loader was building itself, the volcano back and work with us seen moving tonnes of has dispersed significant to do this together, so black ash from the area. ashfall in the area. There The popular Rabacca Dry River is evidence of the dramatic and powerful cre- we can have economic The river, which was has been no indication ative and destructive capabilities of La Soufrière. On Monday, the river was development, we can formed from La Soufrière, when the airport will gushing gallons of grey water and tonnes of hot ash and mud along the East is 8 kilometres long and is resume its services. coast of St. Vincent. OAS on Page 6

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