Established October 1895

See Inside

Monday December 7, 2020 $1 VAT Inclusive TIME TO PIVOT Expert says business marketing is not supposed to be reactive AS companies continue to continued, “A lot of people grapple with the negative think that investment and impacts of the COVID-19 expense are the same thing, it pandemic and look to the really isn’t. An expense is future, a regional where you spend for no marketing and advertising returns, an investment is specialist, says it cannot be investing for future returns... A business as usual if they lot of business owners, because want to increase their marketing is not tangible they visibility and keep their can’t understand it is an doors open. investment. It is like education, Carla Williams Johnson, it is an investment now for Chief Executive Officer and future earnings. So investing founder of the Trinidad-based in an expert is just the same Principal of the Alleyne School, Julia Beckles as she delivered the Principal’s Report, during Carli Communications, is thing, investing now for future the school’s Speech Day & Prize Giving Ceremony. telling businesses not to be earnings”. afraid to seek professional She made the point while help. In fact, as she reflected noting that for too long on the pandemic, Williams businesses have not been Teachers and students rise to Johnson said when it comes to taking marketing seriously, major crises, it is people like and have either been engaging herself that need to come to the in do-it-yourself (DIY) the challenge despite pandemic forefront to inform business marketing or utilising persons owners about what they should who are not properly trained IN SPITE of the challenges focus on and do to stay in and lack the requisite know- presented by the ongoing business. how. COVID-19 pandemic, teachers “There are some people who and students of the Alleyne Marketing an investment genuinely don’t know what to School were still able to rise to She made the point in a do, and they have been DIYing the challenge and achieve many recent interview with The their business marketing. of the goals set for the academic Barbados Advocate, as she Maybe someone told them you school year. made it clear that business need to be on Facebook and Principal of the Alleyne School, owners must stop seeing that was the beginning and end Julia Beckles acknowledged the marketing as an expense and of the conversation, oh you above as she delivered the see it instead as an investment need to do sampling and that Principal’s Report, as the school in their business. Williams was the beginning and end of held its annual Speech Day & Johnson warned that if the conversation. There was no Prize Giving Ceremony in its businesses are not willing to strategy behind it, so they are auditorium recently, under the embrace the change that is doing all of these things and it theme “Surpassing Adversity needed and to pivot, making is almost as though they are Through Resilience”. the necessary adjustments to running on a treadmill, During the ceremony, many their strategy, delivery and because they do not have the students were rewarded for their operations, it will likely result component behind it in order to success in varying areas of school in the demise of their make their time and energy life. It was a day of celebration, as companies. and investment pay off. What I the school reflected upon the “Definitely invest in the help do is connect the dots for my achievements of its staff and that you need. It might seem people, which is what I find a students, during the past counterintuitive, because you lot of people don’t do”. academic year 2019 to 2020. may say you don’t have the She continued, “Marketing is “It would have been easy to money, but I don’t think you not a one size fits all, every have written this speech in one can afford not to invest, if you business has its own puzzle sentence.It would probably have don’t have the specific and the pieces will be different gone like this – COVID-19 came knowledge and expertise in for it to fit together. So bring in and therefore, there is nothing order to navigate the business somebody that can help you. to report. However, that is environment. Investing in There are a lot of people like certainly not the case for us at yourself and investing in the myself that are offering free Alleyne School,” the Principal people you need is the way to consultations... remarked. Erisha Husbands (left) was recognised for her excellent go,” she stated. results in the CSEC examinations. Here, she accepts one of The marketing specialist BUSINESS on Page 4 RISE on Page 5 her prizes from Ms.Tonya Stephen. 2 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

M ADO.CO V O M ASSIC MESH CL ® MUSEUM

Tel: (246) 537-0146 The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 3

Future farmers in focus during virtual forum THE future is farming. That’s the message shared during a virtual Future Farmers forum hosted by the Inter- American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) which was held yesterday. The objective of the forum was to acquire cross-sectoral support for youth in agriculture, to understand the policies, projects and other initiatives currently in place to support young agripreneurs and to inspire hope, collaboration and innovation among members of the future farmers group. IICA representative Ena Harvey made it clear that agriculture is not dead, even though some persons held that view in the past. “For us at IICA Barbados, the launch of this forum represents our commitment to the youth and hope and optimism for the future of agriculture. A future IICA representative Ena Harvey highlighted the importance on which our youth can stamp of yesterday’s forum. their own legacy for their future Chef Kiara Riley highlighted some of the challenges in her generations. Start their legacy agro processing business. with innovative technologies and with the confidence that work but no one knows about it, support is available, in terms of so we want to make sure we are policy, technical assistance, supporting these initiatives to funding, mentorship and ensure that nationally it is recognition. better known and that the work Executive Director of of the youth is highlighted.” Barbados Environmental During the forum, attendees Conservation Trust Tamaisha were given an opportunity to Eytle also commended the hear directly from young initiative noting that the Trust, agripreneurs Keriah which is in its second year, Scantlenury on crop production, decided that the Future Farmers Kiara Riley on agro processing would have been one of its first and Ravindra Chandan in projects. aquaculture. They highlighted “IICA youth farm has been the challenges and successes of going on for many years and it being a young agripreneur and was very important that we plans to expand their business. highlight what they have been Young farmer Jonathan doing. At the Trust we look at Griffin also highlighted the supporting organisations and challenges facing urban youth, initiatives that have that holistic many of whom are faced with approach to sustainability. So it property restrictions and a lack is more than just a youth farm, of access to land to go about it is an important facet in our starting their own business.He Keriah Scantlebury shared agricultural food chain here in also called for a synergy to be her journey in crop produc- Barbados. We wanted to make made between renewable energy tion. sure as a Trust we support and young agripreneurs who initiatives in ways that don’t could benefit from lower costs in development and agribusiness normally traditionally get the long run, while protecting to dialogue and build supported.” the environment. partnerships with young people. “Many organisations and The forum also brought A Think Tank was also Jason Francis was the moderator for the Future Farmers NGOs here in Barbados and together stakeholders who are launched during the Future Forum which was held under the theme: “Connecting globally suffer from doing great supporting local agricultural Farmers forum. (JH) Agripreneurs – Facing the Future together”. Teachers should be retrained for improved learning outcomes AN AWARD-WINNING school,” Dr. Cardinal Warde Organisation of Eastern interesting, “That good teacher that gene would never be Barbadian entrepreneur, insisted. Caribbean States (OECS) can turn on a student to a active. And they might think innovator, scientist and scholar The professor of Electrical Region”. subject that might be they could never do Maths and views the training and Engineering at Massachusetts He explained, “Because all considered difficult such as they don’t like it”. retraining of teachers as Institute of Technology (MIT) the time our primary school Mathematics, and if you get “We have a lot of Einsteins imperative. comments came while teachers are asked to teach them hooked early maybe they in the region and I think we “Our teachers need to be re- contributing to The University subjects that they don’t really would realise that God gave need our teaching staff to be trained all through the region of the West Indies (UWI) Five know very well”. them a gene for Mathematics there to excite them; to guide – from the Primary all the way Island Campus – Public Dr Warde also pointed out and they are good at it”. them; and show them what the through to University, but Advocacy Series on “The that a good teacher can make “Whereas a horrible teacher possibilities are,” he further especially in the primary Future of Work in the subjects deemed as “difficult” can turn off that student and expressed.

4• Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Connect Become a friend of with Variety, public urged customers By Marsha Gittens Variety.For just $60 a year, you could sign up and be a friend of BUSINESS from Front Page AN appeal has gone out for ours and that money would go members of the public to towards the different projects ... so you don’t have to shell become a friend of Variety- over the year as opposed to just out money until you are sure The Children’s Charity. at certain times in the that this person can truly Immediate Past Chief Barker year…You sign up, you can help”. of the Charity, Jacqui either send us money or The marketing specialist, McDermott said this is one of cheque. We will keep you adding that marketing is not the ways individuals can assist updated in all the different supposed to be reactive, said the organisation. She said this things the Charity is doing and businesses are supposed to can be done through making a also, if you want to volunteer know their customers inside cash donation or by with us, we would love people out and “know exactly what volunteering. to volunteer.” their needs are, and She shared this while noting McDermott was speaking to provide those needs for this year has been tough for the The Barbados Advocate them before they even ask for charity. Giving some details, while at last week Saturday’s it”. she said the Charity has had to Charity’s Christmas Fair for “Moving forward I would do more with less, it has had to Charity and Clear Out for strongly suggest that more “cut expenses” and it was Charity events which were businesses change their unable to stage some of its held simultaneously inside and content, to really connect and major fundraisers owing to the on the grounds of Harbour relate to their audience, that is COVID-19 pandemic. Lights. going to drive more sales than “We actually did have to cut Looking ahead to 2021, she just hard selling. The next our office, work from home said, “Everybody has had to thing is to increase your brand instead. We had to look at the look at the world very awareness, through the use of staffing, so we have reduced differently, so we have to think the media, publicity, features some of our staff to reduce the differently too as a charity. So and podcasts, because you overheads in order to then get we are looking to reinvent want not just to be seen and back to the roots and see what ourselves and still become heard, but you want to we can do with that.” relevant and still do things build that credibility She continued, “There is a which help the community but behind you,” she indicated. Carla Williams Johnson, Chief Executive Officer and founder way that you can help us and we just have to think of maybe (JRT) of the Trinidad-based Carli Communications. that is by becoming a friend of different ways to do that.” The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 5

Strategies Petroleum prices devised to adjustment for December MOTORISTS will be paying less The price of gasoline decreased for some petroleum products in by five cents, and will moved help school the coming days. from $3.31 to $3.26 per litre. Effective since midnight, Diesel decreased by one cent and Sunday, December 6, the retail will now be retailed at $2.52 per adapt prices of gasoline and diesel litre. The price of kerosene RISE from Front Page decreased, while the price of increased by one cent and will be kerosene will increase. sold at $0.90 per litre. “Certainly,as a community of practice and professionals, we have tasted adversity in 2020 at the hands of COVID-19, but 2020 Chinese we have emerged stronger and more resilient, as we were forced to dig deep and devise strategies Ambassador’s for survival, in this new season,” Beckles maintained. The school’s Principal shared with those gathered how the Award presented to school was forced to adapt to the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic. two local schools She noted that the student By Marsha Gittens population was divided into two better life for all countries and groups – A and B, with the TWO local public primary people on this planet and to build groups accessing the physical schools recently were the a community with a shared campus on a rotational basis, as recipients of the 2020 future for mankind.” those at home were engaged Featured speaker Pierre Cooke, as he addressed students Chinese Ambassador’s In his remarks, Principal of St. online via the Google during the ceremony. Award. Stephen’s Primary, Dr. Collin Classroom, all in an effort to This was separately presented Cumberbatch said this year the facilitate the necessary physical learning. He also stressed the presented to Erisha Husbands. to the St. Stephen’s Primary school faced many unforeseen distancing requirements, in need for them to attach to She also received The Ashby School and Charles F. Broome challenges and during the keeping with health and safety themselves, positive labels of Jordan Memorial Prize For Memorial Primary School during national lockdown, Mandarin protocols. Students were affirmation. Excellence on the Principal’s virtual ceremonies held last classes could not be facilitated. meanwhile lauded for having Honour Roll. The Cyril Wednesday morning. This however was rectified when successfully completed the Students awarded Thompson Memorial Prize For It was explained by Co- face-to-face classes resumed in CSEC and CAPE exams, given In the area of prize-giving, Best CSEC Results which was Director at the Confucius later months. the changes brought about by students were awarded for their donated by Henderson Wiltshire Institute at the University of the Dr. Cumberbatch used the the pandemic. achievements in the areas of was given to Tawanna Farley West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, occasion to request that material Featured speaker Pierre academics, sports, leadership and The Elliott Williams David Bulbulia that this “is the on Chinese language and culture Cooke, a past student and Head and extracurricular activities. Memorial Challenge Trophy For first time, certainly as far as we be provided in the virtual reality Boy, who is at present studying Prizes were presented by past The Best Results In are aware where the [Chinese] format. He said these will be used law and who serves as “Prime student Ms.Tonya Stephen and Entrepreneurship at CAPE Ambassador’s Award has been in the school’s virtual reality Minister” in the Barbados Senior Education Officer Mrs. Unit 2, which was donated by extended to schools.” classroom. He additionally in his National Youth Parliament and Kaylene Kellman-Holder.Some Mr.Ralph “Bizzy”Williams, was He said previously “it was addressed voiced his support of Technical Advisor to the of the special prizes presented awarded to Denica Scott. She extended to students enrolled in Chinese language being taught Healthy Caribbean Coalition included the Dr. Joseph also received the Vallis Jemmott the Chinese language at St. Stephen’s. (HCC), meanwhile encouraged Richards Memorial Prize For Prize for Best results in CAPE programmes here at the “The teaching of Mandarin in the students to believe in Excellent Results in CSEC Unit 2 and the George Beckles university” but on this occasion, this school has featured themselves and to take Examinations, which was Prize for the Best CAPE it is also being given to the prominently for five years and as responsibility for their own donated by Ainsley Lovell and Results.(RSM) primary schools where Chinese long as the facilitators are language and culture is being available, I pledge to ensure that taught. it remains a part of the curricular In his address during the offerings in this school for many, ceremonies, Ambassador to the many years to come. Your People’s Republic of China in donation this morning will not Barbados,Yan Xiusheng only help us provide materials congratulated students of both and equipment for the effective schools on the progress they have delivery of the curricular content made in learning Mandarin. He in Mandarin but also, in the asked them to build on the other subject areas as well.” knowledge gained. Charles F. Broome Memorial “I encourage you to learn more Primary’s Principal, Dr. Monica from your Chinese teachers,to Walton similarly shared her practise more with whomever support of Mandarin being can speak Chinese,including me taught at that school. In her of course, to explore and remarks, she also spoke about experience China with what you the Global E-pals Initiative have mustered, gradually which the school is hoping to building up your professional start in 2021. skills and widening your “Ambassador and Mr. international advising and I hope Bulbulia, you can help us with that the Chinese Ambassador’s this one because we are looking Award can help in this regard.” at communicating with schools He also asked them to “please in China. For our students to never forget why you started to have e-pals, or what was learn Chinese or another new commonly known as pen pals, language. You are supposed to with students of similar ages in become an official ambassador to China and they can build a bridge between different communicate [during] some cultures to know each other virtual sessions we will hope to better, to work with people from have, as well as a via email and Students of the Alleyne School as they took in the proceedings. all over the world to create a so on.” 6 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate HCC President: Media has role Game changer: Countries urged to prioritise to play in nutrition label push accessibility for tourists MEDIA practitioners which contributes to HCC’s ENSURING accessibility and competitive. have critical roles to larger goal to build public for tourists with specific “Tourism environments play in the ongoing and policymaker support access requirements can and services are often process involving for strong food policy, be a ‘game changer’ for designed without educating, advocating, namely Front of Package destinations around the considering the different representing, ques- Nutrition warning labels world as they look to access requirements that tioning and through earned media. bounce back from the visitors and locals may contributing to the best impacts of the pandemic. have. The tourism sector public health outcome Current label packaging Secretary-General of the must prioritise in Front of Package is inadequate UN World Tourism accessibility.This can be a Nutrition Warning It is noted that the Organization (UNWTO) real game changer for Labels (FOPNWL). current back of package Zurab Pololikashvili has destinations and President of Healthy and front of package labels therefore reiterated the businesses, helping them Caribbean Coalition are confusing and do not need for the tourism sector recover from the crisis and (HCC), Sir Trevor Hassell assist consumers in to prioritise accessibility. grow back in a more made this statement making healthy choices. He did so on inclusive and resilient during the Journalists Forty-four per cent (3.1 International Day of way,” he said. Sensitisation and Panel million) of all deaths in this Persons with Disabilities The recommendations Discussion, “Public Health region are attributed to during the launch of the advocating for accessibility Matters, COVID-19 and high blood pressure, high “UNWTO Inclusive during the recovery of FOPL” last week. blood sugar, and Recovery Guide – Socio- tourism insist on six main The HCC President overweight and obesity. Cultural Impacts of action areas:Assistance in added that the training Excess intake of sugars, COVID-19: Issue I – a crisis; Adaptation of session’s aim is to increase President of the Healthy Caribbean Coalition total fats, saturated fats, Persons with Disabilities”, protocols; Inclusivity in awareness and build (HCC), Sir Trevor Hassell trans fats and sodium are which draws on the post-pandemic tourism; support of Caribbean driven largely through the expertise of UNWTO’s Accessibility in business journalists. Sir Trevor said awareness among senior around FOPNWL among consumption of ultra- Ethics Culture and planning; Staff training that over the past two journalists in the senior journalists in the processed foods which are Social Responsibility and inclusion; and years, there has been Caribbean of the Caribbean. The event poorly labelled and heavily Department and its Innovation and digital intense negotiations and importance of strong organisers also wanted to marketed particularly in partners. transformation. discussions in a process led healthy food policy,namely build support among senior low-and-middle income While much progress “The guidelines reflect at a regional level on the front of package nutrition journalists in the settings and emerging has been made, the UNWTO’s ongoing issue. warning labels Caribbean for adoption of unregulated markets such publication makes clear commitment to inclusive The objectives of the (FOPNWL),and support Front of Package Nutrition as those in the Caribbean. that persons with tourism, enshrined sensitisation are to increase meaningful discussion Warning Label standards, Participants included Mr. disabilities and seniors within The UNWTO Amitabh Sharma, Jamaica encounter barriers Framework Convention on Gleaner; Emmanuel preventing them from fully Tourism Ethics, calling on Joseph, Barbados Today enjoying tourism signatories to facilitate and President of Barbados experiences, even more so tourism for persons Association of Journalists during the pandemic. Now, with disabilities. This and Media Workers as UNWTO leads the publication is also the first (BARJAM), Garfield restart of tourism globally, one in a planned series of Burford, Antigua and this guide outlines steps thematic briefs from Barbuda Broadcasting that governments, UNWTO’s Ethics, Culture Services (ABS) and Lisa destinations and and Social Responsibility Bayley, Pan American companies should take to Department, in its intent Health Organization build back better, to provide guidance to our (PAHO). becoming more inclusive sector”. PANCAP fully endorses push for HIV self-testing in the region DIRECTOR of the Pan associated with the reiterated that the COVID- Caribbean Partnership traditional HIV test – the 19 pandemic has further Against HIV and AIDS fear of needles, the fear challenged efforts to reach (PANCAP) Dr Rosmond around confidentiality, etc. global targets on the road Adams has given the He therefore maintained to ending AIDS. He told the assurance that HIV self- that HIV self-testing can panel that the region testing is safe, effective and help to overcome some of cannot sit and continue to simple to use. these fears, also debate how to increase He told the Caribbean acknowledging “There are testing and increase the Virtual Panel Discussion concerns in the health number of people who and launch of the “In Your sector that persons may do know their HIV status Hands HIV Self-Testing” the tests and may not be without seizing the Advocacy Campaign on linked to care if they are opportunity to explore and World AIDS Day 2020 that tested positive.I am certain implement initiatives such “it empowers individuals that with good support as HIV self-testing. and it puts the systems in place, “We at PANCAP fully responsibility right into our individuals requiring care endorse and support the own hands,” also can be linked to care and push for HIV self-testing in explaining that it will we can get the data needed our Region and we stand increase uptake of HIV to monitor and evaluate ready to support countries testing services, especially programme effectiveness. in implementing for populations with low Also, when individuals do Combination HIV access to testing and those the tests and they are Prevention Programmes at higher risk that would aware of their status they with an aim to reaching otherwise not get tested. will be empowered to be everyone and ensuring that Dr Adams said that there more responsible”. no one is left behind,” Dr is still fear and stigma The PANCAP Director Adams said. (TL) The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 7

Highway service Global CFOs upgrade China’s speeds up link economic outlook in Q4 rating between WASHINGTON – Global largest public and private Canada and Britain from Around 65 per cent of the ASEAN, chief financial officers companies in the world, said “Modestly Declining” to CFOs surveyed regard the pan- (CFOs) have upgraded those CFOs responding to this “Stable,” showed the survey re- demic as the biggest external western China China’s economic outlook to quarter’s survey feel more opti- leased Wednesday. challenge for their companies, “Modestly Improving” in mistic about the Chinese In the current quarter, Japan, while some 86 per cent believe CHONGQING – Beer, coffee, the last quarter of the year economy as the country is em- the rest of Asia and the that the hope of a widely souvenirs and wooden furniture from “Stable” in the third bracing a steady economic Eurozone maintained their rat- available COVID-19 vaccine by stand on display in a mall quarter, showed a recent recovery from the COVID-19 ing of “Stable,” whereas Africa, next year and the current surge in southwest China’s Chongqing survey by the CNBC Global pandemic. the Middle East, Latin America in confirmed cases have Municipality, fine examples of CFO Council. Meanwhile, the CFOs have and Russia maintained their the greatest impact on their goods from countries in the The council, which gathers also improved the economic rating of “Modestly Declining,” companies’ plans for 2021, it Association of Southeast Asian around 150 CFOs of some of the outlook for the United States, the survey said. added. Nations (ASEAN). They have travelled a long way to this point of sale in the ASEAN Commodity Centralised Purchasing City, taking their place beside charac- teristic agricultural and indus- trial products from western China. The purchasing city was opened in June this year to pro- vide a display-and-trading marketplace for import and ex- port commodities, a response to increased demand within western China for Southeast Asian agricultural products, fruits and daily necessities. Since the facility was opened by the Chongqing Highway Logistics Base, eight institutions and enterprises have set up shop here. “I am so proud to see Lao prod- ucts here,” said Phoutsawanh Khounchantha, Economic and Commercial Counsellor, Em- bassy of the Lao PDR in China. Photo taken on July 16, 2020 shows a container dock in Tangshan City, north China’s Hebei Province. During his visit to the pur- chasing city, Phoutsawanh highlighted the importance of the Chongqing cross-border highway service, a highway lo- China gistics channel that opened in 2016, facilitating the transport of launches an increasing volume of prod- ucts from ASEAN member states into China’s western new Earth hinterland. Phoutsawanh said the high- way service has become an im- observation portant link between ASEAN member states and China in terms of economic and trade ex- satellite changes. “Compared with railways, avi- XICHANG – China success- ation and water transportation, fully launched a new Earth ob- highway logistics is more flexi- servation satellite from the ble,” said Liu Gongfeng, general Xichang Satellite Launch manager of the Chongqing Center in southwest China’s Highway Logistics Base. “It is Sichuan Province at 11:58 a.m. especially effective for the yesterday (Beijing Time). ASEAN sub-region, which lack The satellite, Gaofen-14, was large-scale logistics infrastruc- sent into orbit by a Long ture.” March-3B carrier rocket. At present, the Chongqing Geofen-14 is an optical cross-border highway service op- stereo mapping satellite. It can erates six routes to ASEAN efficiently obtain high preci- member states, setting up sion stereo images globally, links between Chongqing and draw large scale digital Southeast Asia, and connecting topographic map, produce with Europe. Vehicles on the digital elevation models, digital eastern line take about 45 surface models and digital hours to reach Hanoi, Vietnam, orthophoto images, and while the journey on the middle provide basic geographic infor- line to Bangkok,Thailand, takes mation. about 98 hours. The Singapore Yesterday’s launch was the line, meanwhile, takes vehicles 354th mission of the Long A Gaofen-14 satellite is launched by a Long March-3B carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite to Singapore in about seven March rocket series. Launch Center in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, yesterday. days. 8 • Monday December 7, 2020 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 Romanians elect new lawmakers, A way forward? seek end to political turmoil IT is recognisable that as the authorities in Barbados look to revive the economy, that direct BUCHAREST, Romania – party in the country’s 465- PLN. port among Romania’s investments is one of the areas that can help the Romanians were voting seat bicameral parliament. They won the last elec- rural voters and has been process. That the Barbados diaspora is being yesterday in a legislative Still, it would fall short of tion in 2016 and ran projected to win over 20% targeted to make a valid contribution is worth the election that many hope a governing majority. through three prime min- of the vote. while and should be pursued at the fullest. will restore some stability Analysts predict the party isters and dozens of minis- As a result of the pan- Over the weekend, Invest Barbados – one of this in one of the poorest will seek to create a gov- ters, before the PLN took demic and virus contain- country’s investment promotion agencies – hosted European Union nations erning coalition with the the reins of a minority ment measures, Romania’s an event which featured a number of presenters to after five years of political progressive USR-Plus al- government a year ago. fiscal deficit is expected to look at the financial opportunities available to the and social turmoil. liance, which is forecast to The PSD-led government widen this year to around diaspora. Those presenters were versed to discuss More than 18 million capture around 20% of the has drawn heavy criticism 9% of gross domestic prod- such matters while offering advice to potential Romanians are registered vote. from the EU for its uct, compared with 4.3% investors drawn from the Barbadian communities to vote for a new national Both campaigned on interference with the in 2019. The coronavirus based overseas. parliament, but turnout is promises to depoliticise judiciary and a cascade of continues to spread in Tomorrow night the Caribbean Economic Forum expected to be low because and fully reform Roman- corruption scandals Romania, with almost will zero in on the repositioning of Caribbean of voters’ fears about ia’s civil service, safeguard involving some of the two-thirds of all infections economies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic becoming infected with the the independence of its party’s most prominent and nearly a half of all which is still causing problems for both small and coronavirus. judiciary, impose fiscal members. virus-related deaths large countries. To date, the EU’s sev- discipline and prop up the But although its chaotic so far having been regis- Both events, the Invest Barbados forum and the enth-most populous coun- collapsing public health recent tenure triggered tered in the past two one coming tomorrow night are significant in that try has confirmed more care and education sys- two years of massive months. they ought to map a way forward for small than 500 000 cases of tems. street protests, the PSD No special virus precau- economies who have been pushed back by the COVID-19 and more than However they appear to has appeared in recent tions – beyond general re- pandemic. 12 000 deaths. have somewhat divergent months to be winning back quirements to wear masks, Prime Ministers Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados According to most pre- views on how best to get some of the lost popular sanitize hands and main- and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and election polls, the center- rid of the corruptive support as the minority tain social distancing – the Grenadines along with Alejandro Werner from right National Liberal welfare state model and government has been have been put in place at the International Monetary Fund, will be the Party, known by its inefficient bureaucracy, struggling to contain 18 000 polling stations featured presenters. Romanian acronym PNL, blamed by both on decades the economic fallout across the country which Investment is a broad topic with many facets will become the nominal of political supremacy from the coronavirus are scheduled to close that account for the subject. Economies however, winner of the election in Romania of the pandemic by curbing social at 9 pm (1900 GMT). require enormous amounts of investment in with more than 30% of the left-leaning, populist spending. According to data pub- capital goods for example, to produce other goods vote. Social Democrat Party, or Recently, the PSD man- lished by Romania’s and services for consumers. Investment in new If the polls’ accuracy PSD. aged to push through the Central Election Bureau, equipment increases the productivity of labour holds up, the mainstay The Social Democrats parliament a motion to about 3.5 million people and ultimately leads to an improved standard of party of Romania’s EU- have dominated Rom- raise all state pensions by have cast their ballots by living. aligned, austerity-prone ania’s political life 40%, ignoring the warn- 3 pm local time (1300 We can note too that by selling financial claims, social conservatives will, since the fall of commu- ings by the country’s cen- GMT) on Sunday, or 3.3% that is, stocks, bonds in the financial market, large for the first time in its nism in 1989, often in tral bank that it was un- fewer than at the same amounts of funds can be raised , as revealed nearly three-decade his- multi-party coalitions that feasible. time point during the 2016 by Marlon Yarde, the CEO of the Barbados Stock tory, become the largest at times included the It has a loyal base of sup- general election. Exchange. However, it is not the first time that the country has tapped into the diaspora market since this was done repeatedly in the past under an- other name the Barbados Diaspora Conference. Whatever approach was used the bottom line is Rudy Giuliani tests positive that inflows of capital is very necessary for the country to prosper and to fight its way out of the present predicament. for COVID-19, Donald Trump tweets So whether those flows take the form of buying into government paper; investing in stocks traded on the Barbados Stock Exchange (BSE) and Rudy Giuliani, President @RudyGiuliani, by far and first lady Melania to observe the vote- in mutual funds; the acquisition of real estate; and Trump's personal attor- the greatest mayor in the Trump contracted the counting process, allow- setting up a business, every approach will be more ney who has been travel- history of NYC, and who coronavirus in October, ing millions of illegal than welcomed. ling the country raising has been working tire- while the virus spread votes to be cast. However Unfortunately, private sector bonds are not unsubstantiated claims lessly exposing the most throughout the White legal challenges brought available as an option since it has been years that of voter fraud, tested corrupt election (by far!) House for a second time by Giuliani and the these instruments were last seen in the Barbados positive for COVID-19, in the history of the USA, just after the election, Trump campaign have capital market. the president said has tested positive for the with White House chief largely been dismissed, What has proven to be very useful are the capi- yesterday. China Virus. Get better of staff Mark Meadows with federal and state tal inflows entering Barbados in the form of remit- ".@RudyGiuliani, by soon Rudy, we will carry among those infected. court judges finding no tances. There had been a steady flow of this until far the greatest mayor in on!!! 4:16 PM · Dec 6, Giuliani has spent evidence to support their the COVID-19 pandemic because of the damage it the history of NYC, and 2020 the weeks after the claims. has done and continues to do. Earlier this year, the who has been working The former New York November 3 election ap- Giuliani appeared World Bank cautioned that there will be a 20 per tirelessly exposing the City mayor is the latest pearing in front of maskless before a cent fall off in remittances globally. While figures most corrupt election (by person close to the presi- Republican state law- Michigan House panel for Barbados were not highlighted, there is some far!) in the history of the dent to become infected makers, claiming the Wednesday and then certainty that the country has been affected and USA, has tested positive with COVID-19, includ- 2020 presidential race travelled to Atlanta, that will be the case until things settled down and for the China Virus. Get ing campaign aide Boris was rife with fraud where he participated in the pandemic becomes history, if such is ever the better soon Rudy, we will Epshteyn, Donald Trump and that GOP election a Georgia state Senate case. carry on!!!" Trump Jr. and Andrew Giuliani, watchers were deliber- hearing on election Foreign and domestic investments are seen as tweeted. Giuliani’s son. Trump ately denied the chance integrity Thursday. catalysts for economic growth, the transfer of technology, improved business functioning Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes and more and better quality goods and E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves services. Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan So let’s see what comes out of these discussions. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate

The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 9

Caribbean prime ministers to discuss way forward for region

TWO regional prime ministers will confronting the region, including the the region, so I encourage everyone to be among the panellists at the final economic fallout of the COVID-19 tune in and send us your questions,” he edition of the Central Bank of pandemic, the future of work, said. Barbados’ 2020 Caribbean Economic and digital transformation,” commented The Caribbean Economic Forum is an Forum series, “Repositioning Central Bank Governor Cleviston annual event hosted by the Central Bank Caribbean Economies: Lessons from Haynes. of Barbados. In 2020, due to the 2020”, which will be broadcast live on “For the final episode, we will bring it all COVID-19 pandemic, it was re-envisioned CBC TV8, and lives streamed on the together and get a holistic view from the as a monthly online event with panellists Bank’s website, Facebook page and chief policymakers. Given the global ranging from regional central bank YouTube channel on Tuesday, impact of the crisis, we felt it would be governors to Rwanda’s Minister of ICT December 8, 2020 at 8 pm. useful to also have the perspective of the and Innovation. Past editions of the 2020 They are the Honorable Mia Amor IMF which is responsible for global forum include “COVID and Economic Mottley of Barbados and the Honorable economic surveillance” he added. Policy: Protecting Jobs, Businesses, and Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the The Governor revealed that the final the Economy”, “Reviving Caribbean Grenadines, who is also the current instalment of the forum would be longer Tourism”, “The Future of Work is Here”, Chairman of CARICOM. Alejandro than previous editions. “Adjusting to the Post-COVID-19 Werner, Director of the International “We’ve decided to make it a two-hour Economy”, and “How to Digitise an Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Western programme, so that the panellists can Economy”. Hemisphere Department will join them cover a wider range of topics and go more Viewers can submit their questions via on this occasion. in depth as they discuss the issues. It will email at [email protected], “Over the past six months, our forum also give us the opportunity to field on Facebook, or via WhatsApp to (246) The Honorable Ralph Gonsalves of St. has tackled many of the issues more questions from viewers from across 266-8830. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Bermuda bars, clubs ordered to close at midnight in new COVID-19 clampdown

HAMILTON, Bermuda – The Bermuda Martin Weekes said it was one of the government has ordered bars and clubs steps being taken as part of to close at midnight on Saturday under a “proportionate” response to make sure tougher regulations aimed at rules are followed, adding – “Again, this combating a continuing surge in is about compliance. It’s not about COVID-19 cases. tricking people, it’s not about tripping The two-hour cut to opening hours people up.” came after Saturday’s latest Bars and clubs will also not President of Guyana, His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. batch of 1 062 test results be allowed to reopen before included ten new confirmed 8 am. cases. “With the increase in locally-trans- President Ali invites former Presidents According to health officials, in all, mitted cases of COVID-19, we felt it there has been an increase of prudent to amend the regulations to 66 cases in the past 22 days with minimise the time where people may be to discuss Guyana’s development local transmissions mushrooming, socialising together inside of a closed HIS Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali development and to work out a model in addition, two people are space,” said Health Minister Kim says invitations were dispatched Friday and a framework on how we engage on in hospital with one in intensive Wilson . to Guyana’s former Presidents to discuss the future and how we have continuous care. “Also, as we all know, increased the country’s development.The meeting, contribution,” the President explained Earlier this week, the government alcohol consumption can lead to poor Dr.Ali said, will convene on December 15. on the margins of the event. announced new fines, starting at judgement calls and slips in protective The President revealed this during his The surviving former Presidents are US$500, for people who fail to wear face health measures.” keynote address at the launch of the current Vice President Dr. Bharrat masks as required, with double Wilson appealed to people to Guyana-Canada Chamber of Commerce, Jagdeo, Mr. David Granger, Mr. Donald the fine on the cards for repeat “keep their social bubbles at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Ramotar and Mr. Samuel Hinds. offenders. small”. “It will be an open floor meeting where President Ali had touted the need for Plain-clothes police officers are The latest cases have taken we will bring together all the former greater political inclusion in his inaugu- to be deployed to check that Bermuda’s total to 288, including nine Presidents. I think it is an opportunity for ral National Address to the 75th session businesses are in line with COVID-19 people who died – the last more than six us to continue to share ideas, generate of the United Nations General Assembly regulations. months ago. Sixty-three of the cases ideas, talk about how we see Guyana’s on September 23. Assistant Commissioner of Police are active.

Mostly sunny

High: 9:13 a.m. and 8:56 p.m. London: 01°C OVERCAST/MiST Yesterday: 0.0 mm Boston: 02°C CLOUDY Low: 2:31 a.m. For the month: 15.5 mm Max: 29.2°C Montreal: -02°C OVERCAST and 2:29 p.m. For the year: 1303.9 mm Min: 23.9°C Toronto: 00°C FAIR New York: 04°C FAIR 6:09 a.m. 5:32 p.m. Miami: 26°C FAIR

10 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate Senate passes dog attack bill in Jamaica KINGSTON, JAMAICA – ous injury to an individual inaction, she insisted, the time of the incident. which permits a constable against an offence The Senate Friday passed in any place, other than would then not be moti- Leader of Government to ask a judge to issue a (whether to person or the Dogs (Liability for the premises where the vated by malice or spite. Business Kamina warrant to enter a prem- property) being carried Attacks) Act 2020, which dog is kept or permitted A sticking point Johnson Smith assured ises to seize a dog – may on by the individual will impose tough finan- to live or remain, Section for Opposition Senator him that it would be prove impracticable, espe- attacked by the dog. cial or custodial penalties 6 of the act makes owners Lambert Brown was that reworded to ensure that cially in rural Jamaica. • The person was not on owners held responsi- liable to a fine or up to five a section of the act could security guards could not She argued for the addi- the owner of the dog at the ble for their animals years’ imprisonment. be abused by business be implicated during the tion of the term ‘justice of time of the attack. causing death or serious If the owner is present operators, which could lawful execution of their the peace’, since it would • The individual injury to a person. and fails to take adequate result in security guards, duties. be much easier to find attacked was trespassing The act was passed with steps to restrain the ani- for example, being wrong- Government Senator such a person as opposed or in a place where that 24 amendments in the mal during the attack, fully convicted. Sherene Golding Camp- to a parish judge to individual was not Senate, which followed they would be further He said a section which bell said that the Dogs execute the warrant, authorised to be. the 17 changes made penalised. exempted a person who (Liability for Attacks) Act especially late at night • The attack was caused in the House of Opposition Senator had “contracted the other showed strong action on and in remote areas. by the deliberate provoca- Representatives on Donna Scott-Mottley person to provide a secu- the part of the Holness ad- tion of the dog by the November 17 and argued that in some cases, rity service using the dog” ministration in repealing Protection for owners person attacked. replaces the 1877 Dogs the owner might be from liabilities could be the more than 143-year- Dog owners are not • The attack was by a without protection under dog being used by a the act, which the follow- constable, or other agent (Liability for Injuries by) terrified and traumatised misinterpreted to mean old Dogs (Liability for ing circumstances being of the Government, in Act. to the extent that they are that the responsibility for Injuries by) Act. grounds for defence: the lawful execution of Where a dog attacks paralysed by fear and the dog’s action was trans- She, however, argued • The attack by the dog the duties of the constable and causes death or seri- powerless to help. Their ferred to the handler at that Section 10 (3) – occurred in the defence or other agent.

Govt secures partnership to expand e-commerce opportunities for MSMEs

KINGSTON, Jamaica – gramme, being finalised The Government has in October 2020. The partnered with two inter- ministry explained that national firms to deliver Fygaro is an e-commerce digital marketing solu- generator that provides tions and e-commerce op- options to assist portunities to micro, small MSMEs with basic e-com- and medium enterprises merce services, through (MSMEs) as a mechanism the Jamaica Business to cope with the impact of Development physical distancing and Corporation, the National other restrictive measures Commercial Bank and due to the COVID-19 other members of the pandemic. MSMEs ecosystem. This digitalisation pro- It said the Fygaro gramme is being spear- partnership offers busi- headed by the Ministry of nesses the opportunity to Industry, Investment create their own website, and Commerce (MIIC), facilitate online stores, and was initiated as early payment buttons, links for as August 2019 through social media, WhatsApp, an arrangement with invoicing, order manage- Kalou, a Google-affiliated ment, online accounting small business online and logistics integration. marketing solution. The ministry noted that The ministry said since merchants operating then, over 1 000 MSMEs via this platform will have created webpages incur no setup cost but and have increased their are required to pay market visibility to a minimal monthly fee customers locally and of US$15 for the overseas. integrated suite of According to the min- services with a three- istry, the Kalou arrange- month free trial period. ment allows merchants to The ministry said both create their own webpage platforms are being in less than five minutes utilised to further the at no cost and offers top Government’s goal of placement in Google’s digitalising 25 000 search results in the MSMEs by 2022. Google Map section free of Additionally, the min- cost to its clients. It noted, istry said MSMEs are however, that individuals being trained in digital transacting business with marketing and other merchants who use the capacity-building subject Kalou platform are areas via webinars and required to make pay- YouTube live sessions in ment using PayPal. order to optimise their Likewise, Fygaro is the operation in the digital latest entrant to the pro- marketplace. The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 11

Jamaica records four BVI Gov calls for legislation more COVID-19 deaths JAMAICA on Saturday from St. James recorded four more Meanwhile, there were to investigate persons with COVID-19 deaths, 57 new cases with ages pushing the tally to 265. ranging from five months One more case was to 83 years, pushing the recorded as a coincidental total to 11 120 with 3 705 ‘unexplained wealth’ death, pushing that being active. figure to 37. Of the new cases, 21 are TORTOLA, British are able to enter the terri- males and 36 are females. Virgin Islands, – tory’s closed borders and The deceased are: In the meantime, there Governor Augustus our people are getting • an 84-year-old male were 132 more recoveries, Jaspert is calling for killed. The risks for the from St. Ann increasing the total to legislation that will en- territory are significant • a 57-year- old female 6 998. able the authorities to and we must not let this from Trelawny Some 75 persons are in investigate individu- crime continue to infil- • a 73-year-old male hospital with five being als who possess “unex- trate our society,our busi- from St. Catherine moderately ill and seven plained wealth” lo- nesses and our way of life • a 79-year-old male critically ill. cally. and we must not let the Speaking during a re- profits of crime risk cor- cent media briefing, the rupting our institutions,” BARBADOS governor said the legisla- said Jaspert who added tion is needed as several that he hopes the Cabinet NOTICE residents have raised con- and the House of cerns about the high num- Assembly will support the LAND (TITLE DEEDS RESTORATION) ACT CAP. 229C ber of drug, gun and cash legislation. seizures, which have re- Meanwhile, Premier SECTION 3 cently taken place in the Andrew Fahie, in response territory. to the governor’s state- RESTORATION OF TITLE DEEDS DESTROYED BY “These make it very ment, said plans are being DISASTER OR OTHERWISE, OR LOST OR STOLEN clear that the territory is made to enact laws to vulnerable to drug traf- boost accountability in the TAKE NOTICE that an Application has been made to ficking, serious organised territory. crime and all that comes “Your government has BVI Governor Augustus Jaspert. the Registrar of Titles by CLAUDINE MILLANESE BROWN of with it. Criminal investi- expressed our commit- 2465 Army Navy Drive, Unit 317 Arlington, Virginia 22206 in the gations are underway,so I ment to strengthening legislative agenda for the to make provisions for un- United States of America for the Restoration of the title deeds to will not comment on these laws in the Speech upcoming year includes explained wealth which Jackson, St. Michael (more particularly described in the specific investigations, but from the Throne which bringing forward the derives from corruption Schedule hereto) on the grounds that the original title deeds to we cannot ignore the fact was delivered by none Integrity in Public Life and criminal activity, and the property have been lost or stolen. that there is a problem other than Governor Bill, Witness Anonymity several pieces of legisla- here.” Jaspert on November 5, legislation, the amending tion to strengthen our jus- ALSO TAKE NOTICE that unless notification is “Drugs and smugglers 2020. Your government’s the Criminal Conduct Act tice system,” Fahie said. received at the Land Registry, Warrens Office Complex, Warrens, St. Michael by the 4th day of January, 2021 that the original title deeds have not been lost or are being lawfully held by some other person, the Registrar of Titles shall immediately Supermarkets, food outlets in proceed to determine the said Application according to law. Dated this 23rd day of November, 2020.

Trinidad to open for 24 hours Anthony D. Wiltshire Attorney-at-Law for the Applicant during Christmas period SCHEDULE ALL THAT PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – land situate at Jackson in the parish of Saint Michael Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley and Island aforesaid containing by admeasurement five hundred has announced that supermarkets and forty-three point four six five square metres (543.465 square and food supply outlets will be metres) or thereabouts which represents a metric conversion allowed to open on a 24-hour basis from five thousand eight hundred and fifty square feet (5,850 starting December 10 until square feet) or thereabouts together with the dwelling house January 3. thereon. Rowley, who made the announce- ment on Saturday during a media The title deeds to be restored are: conference, said this was being done during the Christmas period. (a) Conveyance dated 31st day of December, 1969 He also announced that schools between Colin Andrew Rocheford to Tracey Leon Graham and will reopen virtually from January Marie Louise Harding, recorded on the 2nd day of March, 1970 4, and if all goes well, from in Volume 835 of Deeds at Page 851 as Deed No. 855. February 8, Standard five students and students in forms four to (b) Conveyance dated the 31st day of December, 1992 six may be able to physically re- –Walvin Harold Ifill (qualified acting Administrator and Personal turn to school. Representative of the Estate of Tracy Leon Graham, deceased) Meanwhile, the Trinidad and to Isa Millanese Elcock and Claudine Millanease Brown, Tobago Prison Service in an advisory yesterday said visits will recorded on the 2nd day of July, 1993 in Volume 245 of Deeds resume at all the nation’s prisons at Page 379 as Deed No. 5557. – with the exception of the Claxton Bay Correctional Facility, as of Prime Minister of Trinidad, Dr Keith Rowley. (c) Mortgage dated the 31st day of December, 1992 –Isa today. Milanese Elcock and Claudine Millanease Brown to Walvin The statement also sought to the spread of COVID-19 remain in in-person visits have resumed, Harold Ifill, recorded on the 8th day of January, 1993 in Volume remind visitors that the safety full effect. virtual visits with inmates via 373 of Deeds at Page 311 as Deed No. 148. measures implemented to prevent According to the advisory, while ZOOM will also continue. 12 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Thousands protest in London against India’s farming reforms LONDON – Thousands of growers more options to The Metropolitan Police those people were later them off towards a crowd. the midst of a pandemic. It people protested and sell their produce. said it had arrested 13 released after being issued There were no reports of is vital that we all play our blocked traffic in central Farmers fear the people for breaching with fines. injuries, and traffic was part in the fight against London on Sunday over legislation, passed in restrictions aimed at Police also confiscated flowing freely after the COVID-19,” said police Indian agricultural reforms September, will eventually curbing the spread of fireworks from teenagers crowds dispersed. Commander Paul Brogden that have triggered mass dismantle India’s regulated COVID-19, and that four of who were seen setting “The capital remains in in a statement. demonstrations in India, markets and stop the and police made 13 arrests government from buying over breaches of COVID wheat and rice at regulations. guaranteed prices, leaving A crowd of them at the mercy of demonstrators converged private buyers. on the Indian embassy, Britain is home to a large located on Aldwych, a Indian Diaspora and many major artery in the centre Britons who trace their of the British capital, and family roots to India are groups marched around strongly engaged with the Trafalgar Square area. news from the country. Tens of thousands of There was little social farmers have protested in distancing in evidence at India against three laws the London protests and the government says are few participants were meant to overhaul wearing face masks, a antiquated procurement Reuters photographer at procedures and give the scene said.

A crowd of demonstrators converged on the Indian embassy, located on Aldwych, a major artery in the centre of the British capital, and groups marched around the Trafalgar Square area. US vaccine chief Slaoui sees ‘light at end of the tunnel’ THE scientist in charge FDA is meeting to discuss largest-ever vaccine the fact that we have light of the US push for a the UK-approved vaccine, rollout on Tuesday, after at the end of the tunnel, Covid-19 vaccine says made by Pfizer, on approving the Pfizer and find the energy in that there is “light at the Thursday and will discuss vaccine last week. to continue to wear our end of the tunnel”. approval of a second Once FDA approval has masks, distance, wash our Moncef Slaoui said he vaccine, made by been granted in the US, hands... to make sure hoped the Food and Drug Moderna, on December 17. the vaccine is expected to we’re there by the spring Administration (FDA) “It’s a very important be made available first to to benefit from the could give the go-ahead to and deep process that the the country’s million vaccine.” a vaccine when it meets FDA is taking,” Dr. Slaoui healthcare workers and Dr. Slaoui, former this week. told CBS News on Sunday. three million elderly vaccine chief at However, for life to get Dr. Slaoui heads up people living in long-term GlaxoSmithKline, was back to normal by the Operation Warp Speed, care homes. It is up to appointed by President spring, Americans still the US government’s states to decide which Trump to lead the US needed to follow safety programme to rapidly groups should be efforts to speed up measures, he added. produce and delivery prioritised next. development The US has seen record Covid-19 vaccines. “I think we may start to His appeal came amid infections in recent days, “Based on the data that see some impact on the concern many Americans with a daily death toll of I know,I expect the FDA to most susceptible people are still not following more than 2 000. make a positive decision. probably in the month of safety guidance, despite The latest surge in cases But of course, it’s their January and February,” rising cases. is putting strain on decision,” he said. Dr. Slaoui told CBS. Speaking to NBC, Dr. hospitals, with large parts “The first vaccine “But on a population Deborah Birx, the White of the state of California shipment will happen on basis, for our lives to start House coronavirus task set to enter new lockdown the day after the vaccine is getting back to normal, force co-ordinator, restrictions yesterday. approved.” we’re talking about April criticised the Trump States are also “Grow up, mask up”: or May. administration for flouting preparing to distribute a Tensions in US Covid “Therefore, it’s guidelines and peddling vaccine, with possible hotspot of North Dakota absolutely vital that “myths” about the approval approaching.The The UK will begin its everybody take comfort in pandemic.

Barbados Advocate

December 7, 2020 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS BSE ON A MISSION

THE Barbados Stock The CEO noted that when of capital to undertake Exchange (BSE) is on a UK companies decide to list transactions. He said that mission to include trading securities on the ISM of the BSE, persons who require capital need in digital assets. and by being recognised in it normally for their businesses So promised by Marlon Yarde, the UK, the BSE becomes an to develop and to grow. the CEO of the BSE, one of extension of the UK capital “Investors, on the other hand, six stock exchanges in the market. are persons looking to invest Caribbean. He said that a This would be a boom to our their cash while earning a platform will be created for such market, although securities reasonable return on their trading. would still retain their inherent investments,” Yarde told the Speaking at an investment coverage on the local market, he function. promotional function sponsored noted. “So stock exchanges bring over the weekend by Invest According to Yarde, “You can suppliers of capital and users Barbados, the CEO said that this therefore see why attaining this of capital together to make a is one of the goals the BSE will be designation is highly beneficial transaction,” he remarked. pursuing actively in 2021. for us in Barbados and as a The CEO said therefore that “Digital assets are a result, we are now able to offer stock exchanges are very burgeoning phenomenon. the eligibility for BSE-listed important in that among other Essentially they are securities securities to be included in things, they create a true value issued by a blockchain UK pension funds and UK for securities.“Essentially we (at framework which allows for individual savings accounts.” the BSE) create a bridge between greater transparency for The CEO pointed out that market actors who are investors investors and listing companies, capital markets allow savings including institutional investors. and easier oversight for and investments between We are a local exchange with regulatory authorities,” said suppliers of capital and issuers global ties,” he stated. Yarde. He pointed out that the Exchange will be launching a pilot project next year to work on the technical aspects of facilitating digital asset trading. One clear benefit anticipated, Yarde explained, will be the ability to trade a set of transactions and payments. Yarde indicated that the BSE is a member of a number of international bodies including the World Federation of Exchanges. However, they will be going further by introducing international trading of stocks and going after a similar arrangement the BSE has in place with the UK, with one in Canada. Recalling that four years ago they took a decision to expand by setting up the International Securities Market (ISM), Yarde said the ISM has seen a UK listing valued at about Bds$1 billion. The Barbados Stock Exchange (BSE). INSET: Marlon Yarde, CEO of the BSE.

Local employment key Tourism’s innovative A WTO trade response for CARICOM to economic development global market drivers to counter EU blacklisting? – Part 1 PAGE 3 PAGE 4 PAGE 6 2 • Monday December 7, 2020 Business Monday

Business Monday Monday December 7, 2020 • 3

CIBCFC reports drop in revenue CIBC FirstCaribbean factors. The first is lower headwinds by curtailing reassess dividend payout International Bank is revenue due to the steep expenses,” she pointed out. next quarter. reporting a net loss of decline in US interest The CEO said that in The official reported that $158.7 million for the rates and reduced the meantime the Bank’s their franchise remains financial year ended transactions related to capital remains strong. strong and that they will October 31, 2020. interest income. The According to her,the Tier 1 continue “to build on the The Bank which has second stemmed from and total capital ratios 100 years of banking assets in excess of $12 increased provision for were 12.3 per cent and experience which CIBC billion, has revealed that credit losses of $159.6 14.5 per cent, which has in the region”. after adjusting for a million. remain in excess of the The CEO also touched goodwill impairment item “This increase in credit applicable regulatory on the proposed of $174.6 million, net provisions together with requirements. agreement with the GNB income for the year was the reduction in the “Due to the significant Financial Group Limited. $15.9 million. carrying value of goodwill, uncertainty in the current That entity which is CEO, Colette Delaney reflect updated macro economic environment, the seeking acquire 66.73 per said the result is economic forecasts driven Directors have decided not cent of the Bank’s shares significantly lower that the by the extent and timing of to declare a dividend,” from CIBC is subject to prior year’s net income of the impact from COVID- Delaney noted. The plan, regulatory approval. $170.5 million. 19,” the CEO explained. the official remarked, is to All parties continue to The CEO also stated “Management has continue to monitor the pursue the transaction that the result was driven worked diligently during impact from COVID-19, and the regulatory largely by two main the year to mitigate these the expected recovery and process, Delaney added. CEO, Colette Delaney. Local employment key to economic development ECONOMIC policy economy. pervasive throughout the anything away from the Professor declared while try to create more evenly making going forward in He gave this year’s IMF OECD and other use of technology, it noting that the distributional income Barbados and other Richard Goode lecture countries, and he claimed nonetheless is not going productivity decline has even with many more countries must deal with which was streamed to that companies continued to fix the work place come long before COVID. people in part time jobs. the slowdown in on-line viewers including to put all their eggs in the problems in the future. “But those changes “One obviously set of productivity while some in this country. technological basket. He maintained too that though necessary are not measures in going looking to boost The Professor said that The MIT official said while we are seeing many going to be enough,” he forward is to focus on the employment. the obsession with the that workers in clerical, innovations there are no advanced. labour market, he said International deployment of technology sales, and blue collar substantial benefits from “If the scope of any that the real value of the Economist, Professor to make businesses more employees had seen their them. labour market institution minimum wage is down Davon Acemoglu of the competitive, had led to a jobs disappeared, while “Certainly the same would be extremely by 30 per cent. Massachusett Institute of wave of automation minimum wages had trends that weakened limited in an economy According to him, Technology (MIT), made which in the long run declined. As such labour unions and cut that is already working increasing that age and a strong case for this two- resulted in lower wages, something had to be done down on minimum wages towards marginalising,” protecting the lowest paid pronged approach to be job losses and low to correct that situation. severely, are not done by he said while noting that workers would be a step on the front burner as productivity across work While Professor European economies a country can still tax and in the right direction. countries look to refocus places. The displacement Acemoglu admitted he although they are present their post COVID-19 of workers is very does not want to take in some cases,” the BANK RATES Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of business on Friday by the Central Bank of Barbados. Valid for December 7, 2020

Notes: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 Canadian Dollar 1.54399 1.58966 East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 Euro 2.37970 2.47990 Pound Sterling 2.64129 2.75251 United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 Demand/Sight: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.55279 1.58827 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 Euro 2.41461 2.46451 Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 Pound Sterling 2.68004 2.73543 United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 Telegraphic Transfer The Insurance Corporation of Barbados Limited. Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 Canadian Dollar 1.55573 1.58827 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 ICBL reports positive results Euro 2.41916 2.46451 Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 THIRD quarter results for recorded a break even net “The results for up to which the Chairman Pound Sterling 2.68509 2.73543 the Insurance Corporation income for the review September this year were revealed more than offset a United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 of Barbados Limited period, compared to a net achieved against the decline in gross revenues. (ICBL) were positive. So income of $2.7 million for backdrop of the continued “Our strategic focus on INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL said Chairman Joe Poulin, the corresponding period contraction of the operational excellence and CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE while presenting a review to September 30, 2019. Barbados economy due to customer experience has RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS of the company’s According to him, the COVID-19.” ICBL’s net led to a significant increase N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. consolidated financials for 2020 third quarter results premiums earned rose 1.4 in the use of our online and BDS$ Guyana Dollar 0.00945 the nine months ended offset the loss of $1.5 per cent over the prior year, digital channels and Jamaica Dollar 0.01382 September this year. million reported up to June as the company achieved improvements in customer T&T Dollar 0.29627 He said that the ICBL this year. re-insurance savings services,” said the official. 4 • Monday December 7, 2020 Business Monday

EDITOR’S Tourism’s innovative NOTEBOOK global market drivers “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to recognition and awareness impress others. Be humble, and customer audits for Spending think of others as better performance monitoring. than yourselves. Don’t look Access to timely public out only for your own relations and marketing interests, but take an expertise will be habits being interest in others, too.” – paramount in the new Philippians 2:3-4 dispensation. Brazil, Russia, India, China, and THE opportunities from South Africa (BRICS) are altered? the tourism industry and compel consumers to seek set an example to the rest experiencing growing its linkages have made a our warm weather of the world; and (5) percentages of disposal DO Barbadians have enough spending power significant contribution to destinations in the future. nurture and protect an income and would like to that will see them engaging in excess buying this economic growth in the The five primary market enterprise development diversify their tourism Christmas season. Caribbean prior to COVID- drivers discussed in this growth culture to increase experience by visits to the It has always been a practice for Barbadians to 19. They are also well column are to: (1) build the average success rate of Caribbean. seek out bargains and where necessary go after placed, with an innovative brand recognition and start-up businesses in the Service delivery must be them. twist, to nurture the brand awareness which first five years to a level ahead of the customers’ These are challenging times the main reason recovery of our economies attracts a medium to high similar to the rate of the expectations. Excellence of being the COVID-19 pandemic which has created in the transition to post disposable income gamut survival of a human being product or service, difficulties for employees and businesses alike. COVID-19 growth and of consumers in search of in the first five years of life, competitive pricing, This has impacted on spending habits being beyond. new experiences; (2) so that our economies will timeliness of delivery and altered somewhat and while there is optimism The world is unlikely to provide the level of service grow organically as part of continuity of supply will lay out there that people are willing to spend it is recover from the existing quality so as to whet an economic gearing a solid foundation for going to depend on the bargains and give-ways we tough economic climate consumers’ appetites for system. repeat visits, in addition to normally associate at this time. until a vaccination repeat visits; (3) encourage The growing power of word-of-mouth marketing. Consumption is one of the areas that drives programme is successfully the relocation of digital marketing and the Caribbean governments economic activity in Barbados and we have seen administered. However,we international business pervasive use of social need to attractively in the past that no matter how difficult things must focus now to headquarters to enhance media will combine to incentivize international maybe, people still find the resources to shop as strategically exploit the GDP of the region; (4) reinforce customer companies to establish if their lives depend on it. innovative tourism market develop an environment of relationships both in the their global headquarters Towards the end of last month there has been driver forces which may multicultural harmony to context of cogent brand in the region. In this a hive of activity in Bridgetown and other arrangement, the global commercial areas where stores are using gross revenue of the promotions to attract shoppers. They have company boosts the responded positively. However, these are early destination’s GDP days yet in December and the tradition is for commensurately. Also, as Barbadians to wait until the end to throng the the company’s directors, stores. This will be the case again. employees, contractors and their families combine work and pleasure in the destination, tourism revenues will rise. December The Caribbean is already a multicultural hub of the world.What better a group of destinations is there than Caribbean islands and coastal communities in which to create a global example of multicultural harmony. • EFFORTS will continue this Finally, the sleeping week to defuse some of the giant of economic growth is enterprise development, industrial relations issues which where there are many business opportunities that have surfaced recently in Barbados. can be created driven by a tourism economic gearing system. Marketplace • There will be another edition of Excellence Corporation is currently working on this the Caribbean Economic Forum concept and will soon launch a key initiative to scheduled for tomorrow night. It ensure that many more benefit from our bread and will look at repositioning butter tourism sector. Caribbean economies. (Dr. Basil Springer GCM is a Change- Engine Consultant. His email address is • Linking debt relief and economic basilgf@marketplaceexc ellence.com. His recovery is the title of a columns may be found presentation on Thursday at the at www.nothing beatsbusiness.com/basil- UWI, Cave guild. springer-column/ and on www.facebook. com/basilgf). Business Monday Monday December 7, 2020 • 5

CO-OPERATORS GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED 2020 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT

The Shareholders CO-OPERATORS GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED Co-operators General Insurance Company Limited Balance Sheet May 31, 2020 The accompanying summary financial statements, which comprise the Balance Sheet as of May 31, 2020, and Expressed in Barbados dollars the Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year then ended are derived from audited consolidated financial statements of Co-operators General Insurance Company Limited for the year ended May 31, 2020. 2020 2019 We expressed an unqualified audit opinion on those financial statements in our report dated August 31, 2020. Assets The summary financial statements do not contain all the financial statements or disclosures required by Cash and cash equivalents 3,452,847 2,849,607 International Financial Reporting Standards. Reading the summary financial statements, therefore, is not a Accounts receivable and prepayments 5,769,918 4,506,452 substitute for reading the audited consolidated financial statements of Co-operators General Insurance Insurance claims recoverable 5,551,799 7,636,259 Company Limited. Deferred reinsurance costs 1,358,270 1,351,814 Deferred acquisition costs 988,321 942,946 Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements Investments 28,701,079 27,856,708 Management is responsible for the preparation of the summary of the audited financial statements in Advances to subsidiary 3,113,735 3,184,323 accordance with the requirements of Section 39 (1) of the Insurance Act, CAP.310. Investment in subsidiary 9,588,259 8,558,954 Pension plan assets 367,982 373,529 Auditors’ Responsibility Property, plant and equipment 2,652,696 2,846,559 Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the summary financial statements based on our procedures, Total assets 61,544,906 60,107,151 which were conducted in accordance with International Standard on Auditing (ISA) 810, “Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements”.

Liabilities and equity Opinion In our opinion, the summary financial statements derived from the sudited consolidated financial statements of Liabilities the Co-operators General Insurance Company Limited for the year ended May 31, 2020, are consistent, in all Accounts payable and accruals 1,913,178 1,434,917 material respects, with those financial statements. Insurance balances payable 1,943,106 979,746 Reserve for outstanding claims 19,136,098 21,161,358 Mutual Benefits Plan claims 3,902,652 3,541,568 …………………………….. Unearned premium reserve 7,648,918 7,426,779 PETER J. CARTER & CO Corporation tax payable 17,090 8,540 Chartered Accountants Deferred tax liability 15,120 14,486 Barbados Total liabilities 34,576,162 34,567,394 August 31, 2020

Equity BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORT for Fiscal Year Ending May 31, 2020

Capital and reserves attributable to the company’s equity holders While the insurance market in Barbados experienced another very challenging year, the Company had mixed results. Share capital 10,730,170 10,268,770 For the year under review, the Company’s claims experience continued to be challenging, however, there was some Property catastrophe reserve 1,320,570 1,320,570 respite when compared to the prior year. Ironically, while the COVID 19 pandemic caused much dislocation in the Surplus reserve 3,037,848 2,859,646 country, the national ‘lockdown’ implemented by the Government had a positive impact on motor claims for a short Unrealised gain on investments 8,174,599 7,428,014 period of time. Other reserves 848,513 866,154 Retained earnings 2,857,044 2,796,603 Notwithstanding the aforementioned circumstances and taking into account the competition in the local general Total equity 26,968,744 25,539,757 insurance market, the Company was still able to produce commendable net overall positive results in its ‘top line’ and ‘bottom line’ operating figures. Total liabilities and equity 61,544,906 60,107,151 For the year under review, the company achieved another creditable increase in Gross Written Premiums (GWP) of Approved by the Board of Directors, August 31, 2020 and signed on their behalf by: 6.95% compared to the 10.89% in fiscal year 2019. There was another welcomed decrease in Net Claims Incurred and Total Underwriting Income increased by 1.70% and Net Underwriting Income has an increase of 7.49%.

There was further growth in the Company’s assets and capital base. Total Assets, Share Capital and Shareholders’ Equity increased by 2.39%, 4.49% and 5.60% respectively, all confirming the continued strengthening of the Company’s Balance Sheet. The Company’s Balance Sheet and Comprehensive Income were impacted by the fair Kelvin Whittaker - Chairman Patrick McDonald - Treasurer valuing of certain investments and the application of Expected Credit Loss (ECL) Models as required by the new International Financial Reporting Standard, IFRS 9.

Statement of Comprehensive Income We are also pleased to report the following: Year ended May 31, 2020 Expressed in Barbados dollars 1. The Company’s Statutory Reserve has funding in excess of that required by law.

2020 2019 2. The Company adopted measures to ensure that the reserves for all claims received were timely and Underwriting income constantly reviewed to assure their adequacy. Gross premiums written 23,360,393 21,842,514 Reinsurance premiums ceded (8,584,729) (7,355,416) 3. The Company’s re-insurance treaties were placed as customary with approved re-insurers rated ‘A’ Change in unearned premium reserve (215,682) (410,717) or better by A.M. Best. These treaties are facilitated by WillisTowersWatson one of the largest and most respected re-insurance brokers in the world. Net premiums earned 14,559,982 14,076,381 Net claims incurred (7,896,647) (8,122,954) 4. The Company continued to pay all legitimate claims in an efficient and timely manner. Net other underwriting expenses (681,284) (388,353) 5. The Company continued to ensure that all statutory reports were filed before or on their due dates. Net underwriting income 5,982,051 5,565,074 Interest earned - investments 537,401 728,483 6. The Company ensured that all taxes and levies imposed by the competent Government authorities were Other income 551,410 547,585 paid on or before the dates they are due. Operating expenses (6,358,053) (5,952,583) The Company will continue to ensure that there is focused leadership and Management, robust internal controls and Income / (loss) before taxation 712,809 888,559 excellent customer service. The Board and Management will continue to set high but realistic targets for achievement Taxation (9,184) 125,446 in the future.

Net income / (loss) for year 703,625 1,014,005 The Board of Directors would like to thank its Policyholders, Shareholders, Re-insurers and Partners for their continued support, the Management and Staff for their uncompromising efforts, commitment and application of their Other comprehensive income various skills in contributing to the continued success of the company.

Unrealised gain on investment 746,585 7,428,014 On behalf of the Board of Directors Pension re-measurements (17,641) (260,648)

Net comprehensive income / (loss) for year 1,432,569 8,181,371

Kelvin Whittaker (Mr. ) Chairman 6 • Monday December 7, 2020 Business Monday

A WTO trade response for CARICOM to counter EU blacklisting? – Part 1

By Dr. Jan Yves Remy and Alicia Nicholls SRC TRADING

Introduction THOUGHTS TWO Caribbean Community (CARICOM) WTO panel. While there countries, Barbados and are less contentious op- Trinidad and Tobago, are tions like good offices, arbi- among the twelve predom- tration and mediation at inantly small states and the WTO, without the dependencies included on power of compliance, they the EU’s updated “black- are unlikely to compel the list” of October 6, 2020. EU to do anything more The arbitrary inclusion of than it has done to date. some CARICOM Member Were CARICOM MS to States (MS) on large consider initiating a dis- countries’ national tax pute against the EU, they “blacklists” remains a vex- would likely do so under ing issue, especially in cir- the General Agreement on cumstances where not Trade in Services (GATS), even the Organisation for which regulates govern- Economic Cooperation and ment action that “affects” Development (OECD) – a international trade in serv- body that considers itself ices. Without doubt, the the global regulator for tax practice of blacklisting “af- matters – has taken such fects” the ability of affected By joining the WTO, countries commit to using the WTO’s dispute settlement system, as opposed to taking harsh action against them CARICOM MS to deliver unilateral action, to peacefully settle any trade disputes arising under the WTO Agreements. at this time. Although their tax and other related there have been numerous financial services globally service suppliers, and that crises, Panama Papers attempts – whether through any of the “modes” by targeting primarily leaks, and general push for through CARICOM and for supplying services in- small developing countries increased transparency to Prime Ministerial state- ternationally, that is, with international finan- protect tax bases, it is ments, and most recently a whether remotely, in per- cial centres, it discrimi- likely that a WTO panel TEDEx talk – to address son, or by setting up a nates against some would grant some leeway the issue by complaining physical commercial pres- Members based on their to financial regulators in directly to the EU or ence in the EU. In their “tax cooperation” status. If the EU. But even so, the through moral suasion, 2005 paper, Sharman & the EU uses lack of ‘inter- prudential carve-out is no none of these strategies Rawlings noted the dam- national cooperation’ as a “carte blanche”. EU regu- has to date proven effec- age that blacklists incur on blacklisting criterion, it is lators would still have to tive or occasioned a change small countries’ econo- unclear why, for instance, explain why “prudence” – in practice. mies, describing them as the US – which has not whether judged through At their wits end, “one of the most important, signed on to the Common metrics such as risk pro- CARICOM MS must think if not the most important, Reporting Standard (CRS) file or proportionality – dic- outside the box. In this barriers to the cross-bor- on the ground that it has tates that some alleged tax SRC Trading Thoughts we der trade in financial serv- passed the Foreign jurisdictions are treated offer a legal option to re- ices from IFCs”. Moreover, Account Tax Compliance differently from others. solve this perennial prob- a jurisdiction’s inclusion on Act (FATCA) – was not In at least one WTO case Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago are among the lem: recourse to trade a blacklist has reputa- also blacklisted. brought with a tax twelve predominantly small states and dependencies rules and, in particular, tional implications which Besides the non-discrim- dimension, Argentina – included on the EU’s updated ‘blacklist’ of October 6, binding dispute settlement can adversely impact its ination claim, an argu- Financial Services, the 2020. under the World Trade ability to attract foreign di- ment could also be made complainant, Panama, Organisation (WTO). rect investment (FDI) that GATS transparency asked a WTO panel to reasons why CARICOM ble reprisal should CARI- needed for foreign ex- requirements oblige the adjudicate whether MS – among the least COM decide to pursue WTO Dispute Settlement change generation, job EU to notify the blacklist- Argentina’s “defensive tax litigious groupings of this matter before the as a possible solution? creation and for financing ing measures to the WTO’s measures” designed to countries at the WTO – are WTO. The dispute settlement attainment of the Sustain- Council for Trade in “protect Argentina’s tax unlikely to activate the Third, as shown with the system of the WTO, even able Development Goals Services and inter alia, base by preventing tax WTO option. First, the cost US – Gambling case, the with the ongoing political (SDGs). The implications “respond promptly to all evasion, tax avoidance, and of doing so is prohibitive. allegedly strong “enforce- crisis, still represents the of such actions are even requests made to it regard- fraud” were WTO compli- The middle-income status ment” mechanism of the epitome of state-to-state more dire considering the ing its measures”. This ant. Although the case of most CARICOM MS WTO proves illusory dispute settlement at the COVID-19 pandemic’s eco- would, at the very least, was ultimately won by means that they are de- where a small state, like international level, in no nomic pain wrought on afford CARICOM MS an Argentina – and therefore, nied favourable terms of Antigua and Barbuda, small part due to its rela- debt-strapped Caribbean opportunity to raise their Argentina was able to access to utilise the serv- must compel compliance tively strong “enforce- countries. concerns and have them leave in place its eight ices of the Geneva-based by a larger one, like the ment” or compliance mech- We could envisage an ar- addressed in a WTO measures classifying coun- Advisory Centre on WTO US, even where it actually anism. By joining the gument by CARICOM that forum. tries as “cooperative” or Law (ACWL), a legal aid wins a case. WTO, countries commit to “blacklisting” violates the The EU, of course, would “non-cooperative” for tax body that provides dispute (To be continued) using the WTO’s dispute Most-Favoured Nation likely raise defences to jus- purposes – the case left settlement assistance to settlement system, as op- Treatment (MFN) clause tify any violation found. open key questions, such WTO developing countries (Dr.Jan Yves Remy and posed to taking unilateral of the GATS, an anti-dis- Chief among them would as whether non-coopera- at reduced rates. Alicia Nicholls are, respec- action, to peacefully crimination provision that be the “prudential carve- tive and cooperative tax Second, there is the real- tively, an international settle any trade disputes obliges WTO Members not out” clause – contained in destinations are “like” ity of the power dynamic trade lawyer and Deputy arising under the WTO to treat “like” services the GATS Annex on service suppliers, as well between the EU and Director; and trade re- Agreements. The process or service suppliers of Financial Services – which as the meaning “pruden- CARICOM, with the EU searcher at the Shridath starts with mandatory one WTO Member more allows governments to tial reasons” contained in being not only an impor- Ramphal Centre for “consultations” between favourably than another. take measures “for pru- the prudential carve-out. tant trading partner for International Trade Law, the disputing parties, fail- Here, CARICOM could dential reasons” to ensure Quite apart from the the region, but also the Policy & Services (SRC) at ing which, a complaining argue that the EU does not the integrity and stability legal merits – or demerits region’s main source of de- The University of the party could then launch a apply the same favourable of their financial systems. – of bringing a case, there velopment assistance.This West Indies, Cave Hill, formal complaint before a treatment to all like WTO Given the global financial are at least three practical raises the spectre of possi- Barbados.) Business Monday Monday December 7, 2020 • 7 Kia recalls 295 000 US vehicles for fire risks WASHINGTON - Kia engine compartment Motors Corp said on fire can occur while driv- Saturday it is recalling ing. 295,000 US vehicles for Dealers will inspect engine fire risks. the engine compartment The Korean automaker for fuel or oil leaks, per- said the recall covers form an engine test and some 2012-2013 model make any repairs includ- year Sorento, 2012-2015 ing engine replacement, Forte and Forte Koup, as necessary. 2011-2013 Optima Kia said it is currently Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, developing a Knock and 2012 Sportage Sensor Detection System vehicles because an software update.

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

INSURANCE CORPORATION OF B’DOS LTD 502 $1.78 $1.78 $1.78 $0.00 December 4, 2020

One security traded firm as 502 shares traded on the Regular Market, with a total value of $893.56. Insurance Corporation of Barbados Limited was the sole security trading 502 shares at $1.78. Deposit Receipts Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $20.29 $20.55 $0.26 BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Friday December 4, 2020

LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE INDICES ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.02 $0.30 8,080 10,500 TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - - - - - December 4, 2020 December 3, 2020 Local 2,423.29 2,423.01 0.28 Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - Cross-list 948.98 948.98 - Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - Composite 590.82 590.75 0.07 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Barbados Farms Limited 02-Dec-20 - - - $0.38 $0.38 - 0.35 $0.40 1,000 12,882 TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 15-Oct-20 - - - $4.00 $4.00 - $2.00 $4.10 1,000 1,272 December 4, 2020 December 3, 2020 Local 4,871.04 4,870.47 0.57 FirstCaribbean International Bank 17-Oct-20 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - $1.80 $2.00 739 16,560 Cross-list 121.17 121.17 - Composite 4,992.22 4,991.64 0.57 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 17-Jul-20 - - - $0.18 $0.18 - - $0.17 - 4,500 - Dev Fund MUTUAL FUND December 4, 2020 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 03-Dec-20 - - - $0.57 $0.57 - $0.57 $0.58 334 53,167 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV CHANGE -Value Fund 27-Nov-20 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.1684 -0.0043 Goddard Enterprises Limited 03-Dec-20 - -- $2.00 $2.00 - $2.00 $2.10 5,245 15,471 27-Nov-20 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2460 -0.0019 27-Nov-20 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6743 -0.0003 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 04-Dec-20 502 $1.78 $1.78 $1.78 $1.78 $0.00 $1.78 $2.50 78 5,080 27-Nov-20 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.1264 6.1264 6.1264 0.0887 27-Nov-20 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.0871 0.0057 One Caribbean Media Limited 19-Nov-20 - - - $1.83 $1.83 - $1.80 $2.00 3,139 825 27-Nov-20 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0160 0.0028 31-Oct-20 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.4569 5.4569 5.3478 0.0457 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 31-Oct-20 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 0.9935 0.9935 0.9736 0.0157 31-Oct-20 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUNDm 1.6212 1.6212 1.5888 0.0033 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - 27-Nov-20 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.63 0.00 West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Dec-20 - - - $31.50 $31.50 - $31.00 $31.50 400 24 27-Nov-20 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.59 0.01 27-Nov-20 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.99 0.00 Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $20.29 $20.55 $0.26 $25.06 - 50 - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD 502 FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly * = Security is Trading X-Div Fixed Income

*+* = Security is Suspended Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size ** = Rights Issued GOB Series B 27-Nov-20 $60.00 $60.00 - $60.00 - 33,033 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 - -- - GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 - -- - GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 - $70.00 - 103,713 NOTICES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS While we acknowledge that every person with fever may not be COVID-19 positive and that some West India Biscuit Company Limited - Directors have fixed January 7th, 2021 as the record date for individuals may present without symptoms, please note that any person with a temperature reading of the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) or over will be denied entry to conduct business within our offices. Company which will be held on February 12th, 2021. We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation, however, we must DIVIDEND DECLARATIONS emphasize that this is a necessary step for the protection of staff and clients alike. TRADING SUSPENSION West India Biscuit Company Limited – Directors have declared a final dividend of seventy-five The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section ($0.75) cents per share to be paid on January 11th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of 4.01.3 and subject to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading business on January 7th, 2021. in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section In light of the ongoing COVID-19 contagion affecting the island, the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. 4.01.3 and subject to Section 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading (BSE) and the Barbados Central Securities Depository Inc. (BCSDI) have been instituting several in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited were suspended effective December procedural changes. 10th, 2019.

Kindly note that effective May 18th, 2020, the BSE and BCSDI re-opened and has resumed normal The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please also note that we have implemented digital temperature of Arrangement effected by way of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the checks for all persons entering the building. These checks are being conducted on both staff and transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited to clients alike by trained personnel. Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. Barbados Advocate Kia recalls 295 000 US vehicles for fire risks Page 7 IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DO BUSINESS ‘PUBLISH ANNUAL REPORTS’

ECONOMIST Dr. Delisle Worrell expenditure, the country has to Revenue Authority. Investment is lamenting the absence of vital examine the performance of each entity promotion, tourism and and timely information which in previous years to understand telecommunications completed the list. would highlight how effective is effectively how they used their However, Dr. Worrell said the most government expenditure across allocations from Government to recent information on the Ministry of the public service. provide public services. Education website dates back to Against this background, Dr.Worrell, The letter begins with a list of 2015/2016. It provided information who is an international consultant, government expenditure items on the number of teachers, student again called for the timely publication compiled from the Approved 2020/21 enrolment, and examination results. In of annual reports by government Estimates of Revenue and addition, the most recent financial entities to show what’s going on. Expenditure. statements for The UWI are for the “They would do a great deal to The data ranged from an amount of fiscal year 2018. restore our confidence in government $153 million for primary education to According to him, they reveal administration,” said Dr.Worrell in his $2.5 million for telecommunications. “a deficit for the Cave Hill Campus December 2020 Economic Letter. The items amounted to $1 503 million caused by an $87 million loss from Dr. Worrell also questioned why out of total expenditure $2 856 million. the Barbados Government debt only $2.5 million is allocated to They include what he termed as restructuring programme”. telecommunications at a time when important items for the future Furthermore, he reasoned that the “higher quality communications prosperity of Barbadians and the absence of education reports up to the networks are so vital to commerce, competitiveness of the economy, in 2019/2020 financial year and from The finance, education and the overall such areas as education, the Queen UWI does not allow one to assess the competitiveness of our economy”. Elizabeth Hospital, the Police, expenses recent performance of the educational Economist and former Governor of the Dr. Worrell, who is also a former on embassies and foreign missions, institutions and the effectiveness with Central Bank of Barbados, Dr. Delisle Governor of the Central Bank of defence and security, the National which they have used funds allocated Worrell. Barbados, said that in order to evaluate Insurance Scheme and the Barbados to them. Scotiabank named Barbados’ Bank of the Year 2020 SCOTIABANK has been named Barbados’ Bank of the Year 2020 by The Banker Magazine a Financial Times publication. Regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence, The Banker’s Bank of the Year awards judge banks on their ability to deliver returns, gain strategic advantage and serve their markets. This year, banks were also assessed on their response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Throughout the pandemic we have adopted an enhanced customer focus whereby we continue to help our customers navigate the changes they are experiencing. Banking safely and managing financial commitments have been our customers’ major concerns. We remain responsive with digital offerings and dedicated resources to help with financial relief measures,” stated David Parks, Managing Director, Caribbean East, Scotiabank. “We continue to invest in Barbados and with the introduction of several digital innovations, customers have not only been provided with more convenient and efficient banking options but also the ability to bank safely and securely at home or remotely, reducing their touchpoints during the pandemic. Scotiabank has been named Barbados’ Bank of the Year 2020 by The Banker Magazine, a Financial Times publication. In addition to our online and mobile banking platforms, our next generation The Bank acknowledges the key role but we remain committed to continuing magazine, recognised as a leading ATMs have been enhanced, enabling its customers and employees have to improve in 2021 through working source of information on finance and more transactions to be done without played in achieving this award. “This with our customers and helping them investment around the globe. The the need to visit the teller in branch. award will now be possible without the achieve their goals,” he concluded. Banker selects one winning bank for We have also introduced a dedicated continued confidence and trust of our This year, Scotiabank was also named each of the 120 countries judged. Over hub on our website for seniors, equipped customers and the dedication and the Bank of the Year 2020 in Canada, 1,000 applications are collected and with step by step guides to help them passion of our employees. I salute these Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago. judges select winning banks based on learn about digital banking,” Parks two groups for helping us be #1. 2020 The Banker Magazine is the world’s which ones they believe have made the continued. has been a challenging year for us all, longest-running international banking most progress over the past 12 months.

Printed and Published by ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC. Fontabelle, St. Michael. Telephone 467-2000, Fax 434-2020/434-1000 The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 13

Germany’s Bavaria region to tighten coronavirus lockdown MUNICH – The unfortunately serious.It southern German is simply not enough. We region of Bavaria, must do more,” Soeder which has so far said. recorded the country’s People can only leave highest coronavirus home to go to work, to the Men wearing protective face masks walk after residents of the Berchtesgadener Land district of Bavaria will death toll, announced doctor or for a walk, while not be able to leave their homes from October 20, 2020, without a valid reason for two weeks, making it the yesterday that it will evening curfews are first area in Germany to go back into lockdown since April, in the city of Berchtesgaden, Germany October impose a tougher planned for hotspots with 20, 2020. lockdown from the highest infection Wednesday until rates. Shops and schools and April, it is now reported its highest Chancellor Angel new Bavarian measures January 5. remain open but 13-year- dealing with a more single-day coronavirus Merkel and state leaders to be extended to the People in Bavaria will olds and above should deadly second wave and death toll on Wednesday. agreed on Wednesday to whole country. only be able to leave their only attend on alternate imposed a “lockdown Yesterday, the number extend national restrictive “It is not acceptable that homes with good reason, weeks. light” at the start of of confirmed cases rose by measures, which include we have up to 500 deaths state premier Markus Soeder will seek November, closing 17,767 to 1,171,323, data limiting private every day,” he told the Soeder told a news approval for the new restaurants and bars and from the Robert Koch gatherings to five people Funke media group, conference, adding that measures from the limiting public gatherings. Institute for infectious from two households, until adding that stores should there would be some regional parliament on While daily infections diseases showed, while January 10. be closed after Christmas relaxation in the rules for Tuesday. are no longer rising as the reported death toll Karl Lauterbach, health until the end of the first Christmas but not for While Germany sharply as before, they rose by 255 to 18,772, expert for the Social week in January.“We need New Year celebrations. brought the pandemic have stagnated at a high including 4,289 deaths in Democrat junior coalition a tough shutdown now to “The situation is under control in March level, and Germany Bavaria. partners, called for the make a difference.” Fraser Island residents told to leave immediately RESIDENTS of a coastal warning in place for resort town on a popular Kingfisher Bay Resort and Australian holiday island Village, with residents told have been told to leave to be prepared to leave. immediately by authorities Queensland’s minister as a bushfire worsens. for emergency services, Fire-fighters are Mark Ryan, told local struggling to control the media about 90 fire- huge bushfire on Fraser fighters,38 vehicles and 17 Island, off the east coast of aircraft were working on Queensland. Fraser Island. Of those, The bushfire was about 30 fire-fighters and sparked by an illegal 11 vehicles were tackling campfire in mid-October the bushfire in Happy and has destroyed at least Valley. 82 500 hectares of the Greg Leach, Unesco World Heritage Queensland’s fire-service site. chief, said his colleagues A heatwave in south- were working in east Australia has challenging conditions, exacerbated bushfire with high temperatures conditions. and strong winds The Fraser Island fires hindering their efforts. are among the most “This fire is a marathon serious since the end of last not a sprint,” he said summer. Australia’s 2019- yesterday.“We will not put 20 bushfire season was its this out until we get most intense on record, Fire-fighters have been battling to bring the bushfire under control since mid-October. significant rain across though not its most deadly. Fraser Island.” It saw blazes affect every season. “leave immediately if it is Services says. “Conditions are now What can we expect Australian state,sweeping With temperatures clear to do so” because As of 20:00 local time very dangerous and fire- from Australia’s bushfire across 24m hectares of soaring above 30C (86F) the bushfire is (10:00 GMT) on Sunday,a fighters may soon be season? land, destroying more than this weekend, Fraser approaching. large fire was travelling in unable to prevent the fire Bushfire season starts 3 000 homes and killing or Island’s bushfire warning “If you are not in the a south-easterly direction advancing,” the fire on different dates across displacing nearly three was raised to emergency area, do not return, as towards Happy Valley, service’s warning says. and within Australia’s six billion animals. level late yesterday. conditions are too where it was expected to “The fire may pose a threat states and various Scientists have linked The latest warning urges dangerous,” the warning have a “significant impact to all lives directly in its territories. They generally climate change to the all residents near the issued by the Queensland on the community” around path.” run through the summer intensity of the bushfire Happy Valley township to Fire and Emergency midnight. There is also a separate months. 14 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Kuwaiti opposition make gains in first parliamentary vote under new emir KUWAIT – Opposition candidates made gains in a parliamentary vote in Kuwait in which two thirds of MPs lost their seats and no women were elected, a result which analysts said could hamper government reform efforts to address a severe liquidity crunch. Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al- Sabah, who took the reins in September following the death of his brother, had raised hopes of a detente between the ruling family and their critics in the perpetually deadlocked and fractious parliament. The final count carried on state media yesterday showed that 31 new lawmakers had been elected to the 50- seat assembly, which is unusually outspoken for the highly authoritarian Gulf region. None of the 29 female candidates who stood in the election were successful. There was no official figure for turnout but local media said it was higher than expected given concerns about COVID- 19, which along with low oil prices have battered state finances in the wealthy OPEC member state. The results have strengthened the hand of tribal and Islamist candidates. Kuwaiti opposition figures have proposed electoral reforms and a pardon for Kuwait’s new Emir Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah attends a parliament session, in Kuwait City, Kuwait October 20, 2020. dissidents, many in self-exile, to the new emir. will to turn the table on those allied with Another Kuwaiti analyst, Nasser al- squabbling over issues such as a debt “The results achieved by opposition the government,” said political analyst Abdali, said the new make-up of law that has long-faced legislative were bigger than expected. There was a Mohamad al-Dosayri. parliament would likely lead to gridlock and election laws. Insecurity holds up aid to Ethiopia’s India officials Tigray region, aid workers say investigate ADDIS ABABA/NAIROBI – mystery illness Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region is too volatile for aid to reach OFFICIALS in India are investigating hundreds of thousands of civilians the cause of an unidentified illness which in need, humanitarian workers said led to more than 140 people being yesterday, amid reports of hospitalised over the weekend. persistent fighting, looting and The patients, from Eluru in Andhra lawlessness. Pradesh, had a wide range of symptoms Aid agencies have warned of a lack of from nausea to fits and falling food, medication and body bags in Tigray, unconscious, doctors said. where 600 000 people were already A number of beds at Eluru receiving food aid before a month of Government Hospital have been freed fighting began between Prime Minister up in case they are needed. Abiy Ahmed’s government and a The illness comes as India continues to rebellious regional force. battle the coronavirus pandemic. Abiy declared victory over the Tigray Local media said the patients had People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) after taken coronavirus tests, all of which were federal troops captured the regional negative. capital Mekelle eight days ago, saying A medical officer at Eluru Government not a single civilian had been killed in Hospital told The Indian Express: “The the offensive. people who fell sick, especially the However, a doctor reached in the city children, suddenly started vomiting after on Sunday told Reuters that at least 27 complaining of burning eyes. Some of people – including a 4-year-old, a 78- them fainted or suffered bouts of year-old and a family of four – had died seizures". in the offensive. Two others were killed Many of those hospitalised recovered and four seriously wounded when Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed speaks during a question and answer and were quickly discharged. residents blocked roads to protest looting session with lawmakers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, November 30, 2020. Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Alla by government forces in Mekelle, the Kali Krishna Srinivas said that blood doctor said. immediately respond to requests for Horn of Africa region. Thousands of samples did not find any evidence of a Medical services in the city were at comment. Claims by all sides have been people are believed to have been killed viral infection. breaking point, he said. difficult to verify because most and around 46 000 have fled to Ethiopia’s “We ruled out water contamination or “No light, no fuel for back up generator, communications are down, and the western neighbour, Sudan. air pollution as the cause after officials no gloves, no anti-pain (medication), no government has tightly controlled media The TPLF said it had pulled out of visited the areas where people fell sick,” antibiotics, no meals for patients and and humanitarian access since the Mekelle to avoid destroying the city but he said. “It is some mystery illness and staff, no bank access – even our conflict began on November 4. has vowed to keep fighting. only lab analysis will reveal what it is.” ambulance was taken by the soldiers,” Abiy’s rapid declaration of victory Sporadic clashes persist in areas However the government’s opposition, the doctor said in a text message, asking came as his government sought to soothe outside the city, according to residents, Telugu Desam Party, has called for an that he and his hospital not be named for concerns at home and abroad that the diplomats and the TPLF. enquiry into the incident, insisting that fear of reprisals. conflict could destabilise Africa’s second On Friday, residents also reported contamination was the cause of the Government officials did not most populous country and the wider looting and protests within Mekelle. mystery illness. The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 15

New device puts music in your head – no headphones required

LONDON, England – close it feels like it’s inside on a lake, bees buzzing and Imagine a world where your ears while also in a babbling brook, where you move around in front, above and behind the listener feels com- This product image released by Noveto Systems shows the SoundBeamer your own personal them. pletely transported into which beams music and sounds straight into your head, without the need for sound bubble. You lis- Noveto expects the de- the scene. headphones. ten to your favourite vice will have plenty of But even CEO tunes, play loud com- practical uses, from allow- Christophe Ramstein middle of everything. It’s don’t get disturbed by your their SoundBeamer 1.0 puter games, watch a ing office workers to listen finds it hard to put the con- happening around you.” sound. But you can still in- desktop device will be the movie or get navigation to music or conference cept into words.“The brain By changing a setting, teract with them.” first branded consumer directions in your car – calls without interrupting doesn’t understand what the sound can follow a lis- After his first listening product. all without disturbing colleagues to letting some- it doesn’t know,” he said. tener around when they experience Ramstein Ramstein said a those around you. one play a game, movie or In a Noveto demonstra- move their head. It’s also asked himself how it was “smaller,sexier” version of That’s the possibility music without disturbing tion conducted via Zoom possible to move out of the different from other audio the prototype will be ready presented by “sound beam- their significant others. from Tel Aviv, beam’s path and hear devices. for consumer release in ing”, a new futuristic audio The lack of headphones SoundBeamer Product nothing at all, which cre- “I was thinking, ‘Yeah, time for Christmas 2021. technology from Noveto means it’s possible to hear Manager Ayana Wallwater ates a surreal experience. but is it the same with “You know, I was trying Systems, an Israeli com- other sounds in the room was unable to hear the “You don’t need to tell headphones?’ No, because to think how we compare pany.Recently it debuted a clearly. sound of gunshots on a the device where you are. I have the freedom and it’s sound beaming with any desktop device that beams The technology uses a gaming demo. It’s not streaming to one like I have the freedom of other inventions in history. sound directly to a listener 3-D sensing module and That’s the point. But she exact place,” Wallwater doing what I want to do. And I think the only one without the need for head- locates and tracks the ear does get to enjoy the reac- said. And I have these sounds that came to mind is… the phones. position sending audio via tions of people trying the “It follows you wherever playing in my head as first time I tried the iPod The company provided ultrasonic waves to create software for the first time. you go. So it’s personally there would be something I was like, ‘Oh, my God. The Associated Press with sound pockets by the user’s “Most people just say, for you – follows you, plays happening here, which is What’s that?’ I think sound an exclusive demo of the ears. Sound can be heard ‘Wow,I really don’t believe what you want inside your difficult to explain because beaming is something that desktop prototype of its in stereo or a spatial 3-D it,’” she said. head.” we have no reference for is as disruptive as that. SoundBeamer 1.0 before mode that creates 360 de- “You don’t believe it “This is what we dream that.” There’s something to be its launch last month. gree sound around the lis- because it sounds like a of,” she adds. “A world While the concept of said about it doesn’t exist The listening sensation tener, the company said. speaker, but no one else where we get the sound sound beaming is not new, before.There’s the freedom is straight out of a sci-fi The demo includes na- can hear it… it’s support- you want.You don’t need to Noveto was the first to of using it. And it’s really movie.The 3-D sound is so ture video clips of swans ing you and you’re in the disturb others and others launch the technology and amazing.” JD.com becomes first online platform to accept China’s digital currency SHANGHAI – Chinese fintech arm, will accept account. Under the Suzhou pro- second such digital lottery, PBOC Governor Yi e-commerce company digital yuan as payment China’s digital yuan is gramme, the municipal after the PBOC issued Gang said last month that JD.com Inc. said on for some products on its one of the world’s most ad- government and the 10 million yuan worth of more than 2 billion yuan Saturday it has become online mall, as part of an vanced “central bank digi- People’s Bank of China digital currency to 50,000 had been spent using the country’s first virtual experimental give-away of tal currency” initiatives, as (PBOC) will issue 200 dig- randomly selected con- China’s digital currency so platform to accept digital yuan to citizens of authorities globally re- ital yuan “red envelopes” sumers in the southern far in 4 million separate Beijing’s home-grown Suzhou, near Shanghai, spond to threats from pri- to 100,000 consumers se- city of Shenzhen. transactions. digital currency. according to a post on the vate currencies such as bit- lected through a lottery. JD Digits, the company’s company’s official WeChat coin and Facebook’s Libra. Suzhou’s scheme is the UAE target of cyber attacks after Israel deal, official says DUBAI – The United Kuwaiti said during an Arab Emirates was the on-stage interview at a target of cyber attacks conference in Dubai. after establishing formal Kuwaiti said the finan- ties with Israel, the Gulf cial sector was targeted Arab state’s cyber security but did not elaborate. He head said on Sunday. did not say if any of the The UAE in August attacks were successful or broke with decades of provide details on who the Arab policy when it perpetrators were. agreed to forge ties with He also told the confer- Israel in a move that an- ence that the number of gered Palestinians and cyber attacks in the UAE some Muslim states and increased sharply after communities. Bahrain the start of the coron- and Sudan have followed avirus pandemic. Kuwaiti suit. said traditionally many “Our relationship, for attacks in the region orig- example, with the normal- inate from Iran, without isation with Israel really specifying who is behind opened a whole huge at- them. tacks from some other ac- Iran has also said that JD.com sign is seen at the World Internet Conference (WIC) in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province, China, on October tivists against the UAE,” it has been a victim of 20, 2019. Mohamed Hamad al- hacking. 16 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Netflix has no plans for fiction warning on ‘The Crown’ etflix says it will not warn viewers of The Crown some Nscenes are fiction. Responding to calls for a warning from Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, the streaming giant said the series has always been billed as a drama. “As a result we have no plans, and see no need, to add a dis- claimer,” it said. Mr Dowden earlier said younger viewers “may mistake fiction for fact” when watching the fourth se- ries, which shows the breakdown of the marriage between the Prince and Princess of Wales. The Crown’s creator Peter Morgan has called the show “an act of creative imagination” with a “constant push-pull” between research and drama. Emma Corrin successfully transforms her character into the glamorous Its latest series has attracted Princess Diana overshadowing Prince Charles, played by Josh criticism from some quarters for its O’Connor. depiction of royal events – in partic- ular the breakdown of the marriage Mail: “We have always presented ginning of each episode, it stated of Prince Charles and Diana. The Crown as a drama - and we that: ‘This isn’t true but it is based The culture secretary said last have every confidence our members around some real events’,” he said. week Netflix should make clear the understand it’s a work of fiction Former Buckingham Palace show was fiction. that’s broadly based on historical press secretary Dickie Arbiter has “I fear a generation of viewers events. accused the show of “stretching who did not live through these “As a result we have no plans – dramatic licence to the extreme”. events may mistake fiction for fact,” and see no need – to add a dis- “It’s a hatchet job on Prince Oliver Dowden told the Mail on claimer.” Charles and a bit of a hatchet job Sunday. Earl Spencer, brother of the late on Diana,” Mr Arbiter told the He said Netflix’s “beautifully Diana, Princess of Wales, previ- BBC. produced work of fiction... should be ously told ITV’s Lorraine Kelly he Meanwhile, ex-royal correspon- very clear at the beginning it is just was worried some viewers would dent Jennie Bond told the BBC that”. take the storylines “as gospel”. Newscast podcast she feared some But the streaming giant said in a “I think it would help The Crown viewers might treat the show “as a Bridge statement, first reported by the an enormous amount if, at the be- documentary”.

The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 17 SSPPOORRTTSS South Africa v England: Second one-day international on Monday postponed

THE second one-day inter- pendent ratification” of “uncon- their party had returned “un- staff from the hotel where they three-match series had origi- national between South firmed positive COVID-19 tests” confirmed positive tests”. are staying tested positive. nally been scheduled to take Africa and England, set for for two unnamed members of Once the unconfirmed tests Sunday’s rearranged opening place on Friday, but was post- Monday, has been post- the England tour party. have been reviewed, CSA and one-day international in Paarl poned after a South Africa poned. Games on Friday and Sunday the ECB will then “discuss how was called off 30 minutes before player tested positive for coron- It was a decision taken jointly were called off after positive best to proceed concerning the the scheduled 08:00 GMT start. avirus. by Cricket South Africa (CSA) tests by a South Africa player remaining two matches of this England players and staff are The South Africa squad were and the England and Wales and hotel staff. ODI series”. self-isolating in their hotel tested again on Friday evening Cricket Board (ECB). After Sunday’s first ODI was The tourists were tested on rooms. and all returned negative re- They are waiting for “inde- abandoned, England said two of Saturday after two members of The opening game of the sults.

Harry Kane’s strike was the 250th goal of his professional career for club and country. Son and Kane score again as Spurs beat Arsenal to go top TOTTENHAM returned to the pable finish off the underside of Mourinho is a manager who Spurs are bursting with confi- advanced for Spurs’ first goal, top of the Premier League table the crossbar for his 11th north knows how it is done, has been dence and that superb attack al- showing more urgency than his with a comfortable victory over London derby goal and the successful over the course and lied to a concrete-clad defence is defence as they stood off and al- arch-rivals Arsenal as Harry 250th of his career for clubs distance with Chelsea and is a very potent combination, with lowed this world-class operator Kane became the north London and country. presiding over the development summer signing Pierre-Emile to deliver a superb finish. derby’s highest goalscorer. Mikel Arteta’s side, who lost of a seriously impressive squad. Hjobjerg absolutely outstanding Arsenal were slightly more of The deadly double act of Kane Thomas Partey to injury right Spurs did a comprehensive job as the sentry between defence a threat after the break but and Son Heung-min were at the on half-time, showed a little on Arsenal in the same manner and attack. Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris only heart of another impressive more threat after the break but as they overcame the likes of needed to make two routine Spurs win and both were on the Spurs closed out the win with Manchester City here recently, Arsenal’s misery continues saves and one of Arteta’s biggest scoresheet as Spurs took control relative ease to return to the showing a brilliance in front of Arsenal languish in 15th place concerns will be the form of his of the game by the interval. Premier League summit. goal backed up by the sort of in the Premier League after this biggest names. Spurs fans were back inside mean-spirited defensive organi- north London derby defeat Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang their vast stadium for the first Tottenham have that title sation that is the Mourinho which exposed them as lacking was anonymous, as he has been time in 277 days and were cele- look trademark. in threat and currently well most of the time since signing brating after only 13 minutes In a season which has already They have undoubted world adrift of their fiercest adver- his new contract, while 32-year- when Son took Kane’s pass, had many twists and turns, the class in attack, as Son and Kane saries. old Willian, secured on a highly advancing on the retreating consistency, clinical approach proved once more, combining The Gunners are 11 points expensive deal from Chelsea in Arsenal defence before curling and relentless efficiency of Spurs with each other to lethal effect as adrift of Spurs and there was no the summer,looked a spent force a magnificent right-foot finish under manager Jose Mourinho both creators and scorers. evidence here to suggest this gap as he was easily outmuscled on beyond diving Arsenal keeper means they carry all the hall- Once again there was no need will be closing any time soon. many occasions. Bernd Leno from 25 yards. marks of a side who will have a for Mourinho to employ the serv- Arteta’s side had 62% posses- It is early days for Arteta – Arsenal dominated possession big say in the Premier League ices of Gareth Bale, who con- sion in the first half but were and he has an FA Cup win as in- in the first half but it was Spurs title race. tented himself with regular caught out on the break twice surance – but this sixth defeat of who had the ruthless, clinical It would be hugely premature warm-ups to the acclaim of 2,000 by Son and Kane, surely a dan- the season demonstrated again edge as they caught the Gunners to suggest this is the Spurs team Spurs fans who were able to see ger he had warned his players the scale of his task and how far on the break in stoppage time, who will end the wait for a title him in person for the first time about in advance. away Arsenal currently are from Son repaying the compliment by that will stretch back 60 years since his loan move from Real Arteta almost sprinted along challenging at the top end of the playing in Kane for an unstop- by the end of this season, but Madrid. the touchline in anxiety as Son table. 18 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Sakhir Grand Prix: Sergio Perez claims maiden win as Mercedes error costs George Russell RACING POINT’S to pit their cars, but and fifth places, Bottas Sergio Perez took his chose to do so in what ahead. first Formula 1 victory was intended to be a Russell could still have in the Sakhir Grand safety decision. won the race, but a punc- Prix as Mercedes fum- But they put the wrong ture when he was trying bled what should have tyres on Russell’s car and to chase down Perez sent been a debut win for then could not fit a new him to the back. He George Russell. set to that of his team- carved his way back up The 22-year-old Briton, mate Valtteri Bottas, to ninth for his first F1 standing in for Lewis who had to have his old points, but that will be Hamilton after the world tyres fitted back on to his scant reward after such Sergio Perez’s maiden F1 win came in his 190th race. champion contracted car. drama. coronavirus, was on his Russell had to stop It was a remarkable Leclerc at Turn Four. through the field and Ocon took second for his way to an accomplished again the next time drive by Perez, who had But the Mexican, who was set for a brilliant first F1 podium finish, victory before a late-race around to fit a correct to pit at the end of the does not yet have a seat third place before with Lance Stroll joining safety car. set, and the Mercedes first lap after being hit next season, drove a Mercedes hit trouble. Racing Point teammate Mercedes did not have were now down in fourth by Ferrari’s Charles superb race, carving up Renault’s Esteban Perez on the podium. Motor racing: Mick Schumacher bags Formula Two title before graduation to F1 AN ‘overwhelmed’ Mick ther point behind. since suffering severe The German already Schumacher graduated Tyre damage forced head injuries in a skiing has 1.3 million followers to Formula One as the the German to pit after accident in the French on Instagram, and more 2020 Formula Two 15 laps, sending him to Alps in 2013. than 180,000 on Twitter champion on Sunday de- the back of the field. Mick was European F3 and can count on strong spite failing to score in “It would feel or sound champion in 2018 and commercial backing. his last race before join- a lot better if I had joins Charles Leclerc According to Nielsen ing the US-owned Haas a good race today,” and George Russell, Sports, a majority of F1 team. Schumacher said of the now with Ferrari and Schumacher’s fanbase is The 21-year-old son of title, achieved with two Williams respectively, as Italian with Germany seven-time world cham- wins and no poles but recent F2 champions accounting for only 10% pion and Ferrari great plenty of consistency. who have stepped up to of that following. Michael was 18th in a “Nevertheless, we did F1. The series was previ- “Bringing in Mick sprint race won by enough. ously known as GP2. Schumacher will in- Indian driver Jehan “To be honest, I’m a bit AFerrari Academy crease Haas’ global Daruvala while his sole overwhelmed,” he added. driver, Schumacher was commercial viability,” title rival, Callum Ilott, “I don’t really under- announced by Ferrari- said Nielsen Sports’ finished 10th with only stand or feel like a cham- powered Haas last senior vice-president of the top eight scoring. pion yet. It’s going to Wednesday as one of global motorsports Nigel Schumacher signed off take a few days maybe. their 2021 race drivers Geach. with 215 points, 14 clear “We pitted, we didn’t along with Russian “We expect sponsor- of Briton Ilott, with manage to get back to Mick Schumacher (PHOTO: FORMULA 2 TWITTER) Nikita Mazepin. ship appetite to be sub- Japan’s Yuki Tsunoda, the front but neverthe- He will bring a size- stantial. There is a real now expected to move up less we are champions race today and only see retired in 2012 after a able support with him to incentive for his father’s to Formula One with Red now today, and that’s the good times of this three-season comeback Formula One as son of old sponsors to be in- Bull’s Honda-powered what people will remem- year, and I will too.” with Mercedes and has one of the greatest driv- volved, as well as inter- AlphaTauri team, a fur- ber. They will forget this Michael Schumacher not been seen in public ers of all time. est from new parties.” ‘We’re worried about Sheff Utd run,’ says manager Wilder after late Vardy winner for Leicester CHRIS WILDER says he fans’ worry as Sheffield bottom of the Premier with defeat at home to corner flag and snapping Wilder, who has led the and his team share their United’s plight at the League table continued Leicester City. it with his boot. Yorkshire side to two pro- The Blades looked set United, who have made motions, added: “We are a to secure only their the worst start by any losing team at the mo- second point of the sea- club to a Premier League ment and I am the man- son when Oli McBurnie season, now only have one ager of a losing team. scored his first of the point from 11 games and “Whether it is cruel campaign after Ayoze sit five points adrift at or deserved, we have to Perez had given the visi- the bottom. make the right decisions. tors the lead. “If players want to stay If we make the right deci- But with just a few in this division then they sions we get something minutes of the match have to make better deci- from the game against a remaining, James sions,” Wilder told BBC really decent team.” Maddison fed in striker Radio 5 Live, referring to Earlier, Vardy and Jamie Vardy, who scam- the errors made by Chris Maddison both came pered clear of the home Basham and John Fleck close with fierce efforts defence and slotted in the build-up to Vardy’s that struck the Blades’ his shot past Aaron late goal. right-hand upright. Ramsdale. “We’re all worried be- Oliver Burke had The 33-year-old boy- cause we care about re- United’s only other hood fan of Blades’ rivals sults and performances. chance of note when he Sheffield Wednesday cel- We’re in this position for slipped with just Kasper Jamie Vardy snapped one of the corner flags during his celebration. ebrated by running to the a reason.” Schmeichel to beat. The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 19

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE Belle, St. George Rallying: Ogier Land 4 acres $400,000 wins seventh world Haggatt Hall, St. Michael Land 6336 sq ft $126,000 title in eight years

Cane Garden, St. Thomas MILAN – Sebastien Hyundai’s outgoing Land 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft Ogier clinched the champion Ott Tanak TEL 572-1452 Private entrance. From world rally champi- runner-up to finish third Cel: 253-6319 $187,681 onship for the sev- overall in the champi- 828-4800 Email: enth time in eight onship. The Mount, St. George years after the Ogier, who has now caribbeanpropertiesltd Land 6544 sq ft @gmail.com $110,000 Frenchman won the won titles with three dif- season-ending Rally ferent manufacturers Shop Hill, St Thomas Monza on Sunday. after four with PROPERTIES Land 11,735 sq ft French drivers named Volkswagen and two for $258,000 Kirtons, St Philip Sebastien have now won Ford, finished eight 16 of the last 17 titles, points clear of the 3 bedroom plus Ragged Point, St. Philip 2 bedroom apt Land 8,267 sq ft with Sebastien Loeb Welshman in a champi- Land 4,790 sq ft $685,000 $166,000 winning nine in a row onship reduced to seven with Citroen before rounds due to the Amity Lodge, Ch Ch Rolling Hills, St. George Ogier, 36, took over at COVID-19 pandemic. momentarily on the season, and I am sure 3 bedroom plus Land 12,000 sq ft the top from 2013. Evans finished outside muddy final stage. next year will be the 1 bedroom apt $315,000 (negotiable) Land 6,646 sq ft His Toyota team mate the top 10 but banked “I knew there were same.” $650,000 Ocean City, St. Philip Elfyn Evans, who had a three points from the still a couple of narrow Tanak finished 1.4 sec- Land 6150 sq ft 14-point lead before the final Power Stage in wet gates to pass and it onds ahead of Spanish Gibbons, Ch Ch $123,000 final round in northern conditions. would have been chal- teammate Dani Sordo, to 3 bedroom plus Italy, crashed out on a “It was a difficult lenging without seeing clinch the manufactur- 2 bedroom apt Fortesque, St Philip snowy Saturday but weekend and this last anything,” he added. ers’ title for Hyundai – Land 9,835 sq ft $765,000 Agricultural Land 494,500 sq ft returned for the final stage was not enjoyable,” “We feel sorry for five points clear of Breezy Hill, St Philip $1,100,000 three stages at Monza said Ogier, whose car’s Elfyn. We had great fun Toyota – for the second 3 bedroom, 2 bath circuit on Sunday. wipers failed him fighting each other this season in a row. reduced to $298,000 Silver Sands, Ogier won the rally by Christ Church 13.9 seconds, with Black Rock, St Michael Land 7,129 sq ft 3 bedroom, 1 bath $160,000 Fans see home win on return to Land 6732 sq ft REAL ESTATE $360,000 Bushy Park, St. Philip Anfield as Liverpool thrash Wolves Land 24,000 sq ft Warehouse/Factory Enterprise, Christ Church $200,000 4000 sf space PREMIER League fans to Anfield for the ry over Wolverhampton 3 bedroom, 2 bath Land 23,861 sq ft Land 5062 sq ft $900,000 (reduced) champions Liverpool first time since March Wanderers. Apes Hill, St. James welcomed the return of with an emphatic victo- Mohamed Salah gave $390,000 (reduced) Land 31,000 sq ft upward Large lots at $15 per sq ft Foul Bay, St. Philip Liverpool the lead in Golf Club Road, Approved for condos, NOTICES NOTICES the first half after Christ Church Mount Wilton, St. Thomas Land 39,242 sq ft Wolves defender Conor 3 bedroom, 1 bath Land 15,500 sq ft $1,600,000. Coady misjudged a long fixer upper and 22,066 sq ft ball from Jordan Land 4,000 plus $300,000 and $220,000 Dover, Christ Church UNDER OFFER Hotel 18 rooms fully Henderson. Union, St. Philip operational $2,950,000 neg Georginio Wijnaldum The Belle, St George Land 7560 sq ft added a second after the Plantation style House $150,000 Dalkeith, Christ Church break when he curled a Standing on 4 acres Land 17,371 sq ft approved precise shot into the UNDER OFFER Cottage, St George for shops and offices $495,000 top-right corner from Land 5000 sq ft long range before Joel Frere Pilgrim, $110,000 Christ Church Roebuck Street, Matip’s thumping head- 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Morningside, St Philip Bridgetown er and Nelson Semedo’s two bedroom apartment. Land 4567 sq ft Shopping Mall/Office space scrambled own goal Land 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 $133,000 $8,100,000 negotiable completed the scoring. Hanson Heights, St George Batts Rock, St Michael Wolves were largely Jupiter Gardens, St Philip contained by the home 3 bedroom, 2 baths Land 7312 sq ft Guest House, Land 8321 sq ft $133,000 Land 12,078 sq ft side but had a glimpse $595,000 $2,850,000 negotiable of hope when referee Bagatelle, St. Thomas Craig Pawson awarded Ealing Grove, Land 62000 sq ft into 2 lots Cane Garden, St Thomas them a penalty in the Christ Church $520,000 each 3.6 acres approved 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths Roadfront land first half when he adjudged Sadio Mane Land 9320 sq ft Marley Vale, St Philip $1,650,000 negotiable $565,000 Land 21,780 sq ft to have fouled former $275,000 Fitts Village, St James Liverpool player Coady. Guest House, 4 Suites However, he over- LOTS FOR SALE Sandford, St Philip Land 6,135 sq ft turned his decision $850,000 negotiable Land 16,356 sq ft after reviewing the inci- Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy $305,000 Land 14,876 sq ft. Mason Hill Street The City dent on the video assis- $110,000 26,500 sq ft with buildings tant referee monitor, COMMERCIAL $4,500,000 negotiable where it was clear there Bushy Park, St. Philip had been no contact. All enquiries to Land 17,000 sq ft Mount Standfast, St James The win keeps $10 sq ft (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 Two properties on Liverpool level on 22,714 sq ft Land. (246) 572 1452 points with league lead- Inchcape, St. Philip Asking $1,200,000 or Land 4355 sq ft (246) 247 4469 ers Tottenham. Wolves $ 96,000 Black Rock, St. Michael are in 10th. 20 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 • 21

Kenya’s Kandie smashes half marathon world record

KENYA’S Kibiwott Kandie smashed the half marathon world record by 29 seconds yesterday, becoming the first person to break 58 min- utes at the Valencia Half Marathon. Kandie, who finished second at the world half marathon championships in Gdynia in October, finished the Spanish annual race in 57 minutes and 32 seconds, breaking the previ- ous record of 58:01 set by compa- triot Geoffrey Kamworor in September 2019. “I can’t believe it, I have beaten Kamworor’s world record by half a minute,” Kandie said. “Today is a great day for me and also for Kenya.” The top four men all ran under the previous world best, with Jacob Kiplimo of Uganda finishing second in 57:37, Kenyan Rhonex Kipruto third in 57:49 and Kenyan Alexander Mutiso taking fourth place in 57:59. Kandie, 24, led the chasing pack, which included reigning In this file photo Kibiwott Kandie of Kenya crosses the finish line after passing Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo at the last moment to win world champion Kiplimo, the annual “Sao Silvestre Run” in Sao Paulo, Brazil December 31, 2019. Kandie smashed the half marathon world record by 29 through the 15-kilometre mark seconds yesterday, becoming the first person to break 58 minutes at the Valencia Half Marathon. in 41:10. The pair traded the lead over ish more than a minute off his won the women’s race in 1:05:18, Kibiwott Kandie is the first winning time of 57:32 more than the next six km before Kandie previous personal best of 58:37. setting the fastest time for a athlete to run a half marathon a minute faster than his previ- made the decisive move, to fin- Ethiopia’s Genzebe Dibaba debut over the distance. in under 58 minutes, with his ous best. 22 • Monday December 7, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

UFC to slash roster before Grosjean to miss Abu year-end, says Dana White THE Ultimate Fighting right now,” White told Championship (UFC) is reporters. set to cut 60 mixed mar- “We’re just literally Dhabi career swansong tial artists from its roster starting to go through the before the end of the year, list and he (Romero) is 44, MANAMA – Romain president Dana White he’s lost four of his last Grosjean will miss the told a media conference five. These are the tough Formula One season- after Saturday’s card in decisions you’ve got to ending Abu Dhabi Las Vegas. make,” he added. Grand Prix, with the White was responding The UFC was one of the Frenchman flying to to a question about Cuban first major American Switzerland to con- middleweight Yoel sports bodies to restart in tinue his recovery from Romero, who was recently the wake of the COVID- injuries sustained in dropped by the organisa- 19 pandemic, creating a a fiery crash at last tion despite fighting for bubble and staging cards week’s Bahrain Grand the title as recently as last in Florida and Las Vegas Prix. March. The UFC cur- as well as “Fight Island” Forced to sit out rently lists 724 active in Abu Dhabi, with no Sunday’s Sakhir Grand fighters on its website fans in attendance. Prix, the Frenchman had (www.ufc.com), compris- Despite the difficulties been hoping to return for ing 117 women and 607 and the upcoming cuts, what looked set to be his men. White declared himself Formula One swansong in “We’re gonna go happy with the way 2020 Abu Dhabi on Dec. 13. through some serious cuts has panned out, saying: Grosjean walked away here at the end of the “For all the negative from the horrific crash last year, probably going to things and bad stuff that week, despite his car being have 60 cuts here before has happened this year, it split in half and bursting the end of the year ... our sure has played out pretty into flame. The 34-year- Haas' Romain Grosjean arrives to thank marshals ahead of the Sakhir Grand Prix roster is very inflated well for us.” old suffered second-degree on December 3, 2020. burns to the back of his hands, for which he will and my health,” he said. Steiner. “We know how son of a Russian billion- continue to receive treat- “It’s one of the hardest badly he wanted to be able aire. ment in Switzerland, his decisions of my life but it’s to return... in Abu Dhabi.” Mercedes on Saturday Haas team said in a state- obviously one of the wis- Grosjean has been with said they would be open ment on Sunday. est.” Haas since the US-owned to arranging a farewell “It is with great sadness Haas will instead run team’s debut Formula One Formula One test that I will not be able to Brazilian reserve Pietro season in 2016. for Grosjean if the do my final race in Abu Fittipaldi, standing in for Both he and team mate Frenchman was unable Dhabi and be with the Grosjean in Sakhir, for a Kevin Magnussen are to return in Abu Dhabi. team there,” Grosjean said second consecutive week- leaving the outfit at the Grosjean has said if in the statement. end. end of this year, with Haas he couldn’t race in Abu “We’ve tried as much as “Romain has shown ex- going for an all-rookie Dhabi, he would try to we could with the doctor to ceptional bravery and line-up in Mick arrange a private test in recover and to repair my amazing spirit over the Schumacher,son of seven- January so he can say hand but the risk of racing last few days,” said Haas time champion Michael, farewell to Formula One is too big for my recovery team principal Guenther and Nikita Mazepin, the in a fitting way. Cycling: Thomas dislocates shoulder in training fall but escapes fracture INEOS-GRENADIERS escaped a fracture. that also showed several row.” rider Geraint Thomas “Not the Sunday I was screws in his collar bone The 34-year-old’s in- suffered a dislocated expecting... crashed on from a previous injury. jury comes two months shoulder in a crash on some ice and dislocated “It’s back in now, after after he fractured his Dana White, president of the Ultimate Fighting Sunday but the tough-as- my shoulder,” Thomas a rather painful two pelvis in the third stage Championship, speaks during the largely virtual nails Welshman said he said in an Instagram post hours, but no fractures. of the Giro d’Italia in 2020 Republican National Convention broadcast would be back in train- that was accompanied So all good to get on the October to crash out of from Washington, US, on August 27, 2020. (PHOTO: 2020 ing on Monday having by x-rays of his shoulder turbo (trainer) tomor- the race. REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION) World Athletics to allow ‘development shoes’ if they meet technical specifications ATHLETES will be al- ber-stamped by the developed by Nike tage. World Athletics CEO new process of submit- lowed to wear shoes still World Athletics Council played a starring role in World Athletics Jon Ridgeon welcomed ting specifications and under development in in- on Friday – applies to two of the biggest dis- banned the shoes from the amendment, insist- shoes, if required, for ternational competitions competitions sanctioned tance-running achieve- professional sport earlier ing it would not affect approval ahead of being and events where World by World Athletics, area ments of 2019. this year, following which the competition’s in- worn in competition, we Athletics rules apply, associations or member Eliud Kipchoge’s sub- Nike launched a new tegrity. are confident that this upon approval of the federations at which its two-hour marathon version of its Alphafly “The use of competition amendment will not shoes’ specifications, rules apply. in Vienna and Brigid shoe that complies with to complete the final test- impact the integrity of after a rule change by the But such “development Kosgei’s record-breaking new rules introduced by ing of development shoes competition.” sport’s governing body. shoes” will not be permit- run at the Chicago the governing body. by manufacturers has al- Prototypes can be worn The shoes will have to ted in the World Athletics Marathon brought Nike’s Manufacturers use ways been an important for a period of 12 months, meet the same technical Series or at the Vaporfly shoes into the development shoes to part of the shoe develop- after which they no specifications as other Olympics. spotlight, sparking de- conduct tests with spon- ment process,” Ridgeon longer qualify as devel- approved shoes, World A debate over runners’ bate over whether the sored athletes before said. opment shoes and can Athletics said. shoes has been raging advanced footwear gave making them available “With shoe manufac- no longer be used in The amendment – rub- since high-tech footwear runners an unfair advan- in the market. turers agreeing to our competitions. The Barbados Advocate Monday December 7, 2020 •23

P R O HOROSCOPES S A ARIES: The end of a long-term financial or legal N contract is in sight. It will be a relief to have this D completed and over with by the end of the year. An offer to take on some extra work over the festive C season needs some careful thought. Someone at O home might raise a few objections. N S TAURUS: Progress seems to be the flavour of the day and this is all thanks to your sensible guidance. You've always been practical and your less organ- ised colleagues will be happy to follow your lead. Pleasing news about a private project will give you something to celebrate with your family.

GEMINI: Taking responsibility for a friend or rel- ative's belongings could put you in a quandary when Z an item gets broken, lost or stolen. To avoid such I hassles, leave other people to sort out their own af- T fairs. If they need someone to look after their pos- S sessions, suggest they put them into storage.

CANCER: Finances are good with one exception. A friend will hint they are in desperate need of a loan. Unless you don't care about when it is paid back, turn a deaf ear to their thinly disguised pleas. Be ready to act swiftly if you are buying or selling property. R LEO: It would be easy to offer your opinion or ad- E vice when you notice someone is going about some- X thing the wrong way. All you want to do is help but they may not see it in this way. Since they won't M thank you for your interference you may have to O leave them to learn from their mistakes. R VIRGO: If your work or if new responsibilities re- G quire you to learn new skills, don't try to run before A you can walk. Be sure in yourself that you fully un- N derstand each step before you proceed to the next. Above all, don't rush when making important deci- sions that may affect your job prospects.

LIBRA: You love buying gifts for your family and friends which makes Christmas one of your most favourite times of the year. Because you have planned well ahead and made the most of the chance P to do some online shopping, this festive season H won't be as much a drain on your resources as you A were expecting. N T SCORPIO: Someone will try to persuade you to O try something new and different. You may not be in M the mood and you might regret it if you allow them to distract you from your original plans. Experimenting with new ideas will feel like a waste of time. You will prefer to concentrate on what you do best.

SAGITTARIUS: Your concentration seems to have flown out of the window. No matter how much M effort you put into things, nothing is turning out A right. You're reluctant to accept an offer of help be- R cause you feel you could and should be doing bet- ter. Why not give others a chance to show what they Y can do? W CAPRICORN: A chance to make some extra O money out of a hobby could be more effort than it's R worth. Someone will offer to pay you for your cre- T ativity. They appreciate your skills but not the cost H of the materials involved. Looking for ways to save money might be a better idea.

AQUARIUS: The chance to work from home will be an overall positive experience. Even so, there will M be days when you might feel a need to mix with O other people. Done properly you should be able to T arrange it so you can connect regularly with col- H leagues so this could be a situation that will work E well for you. R PISCES: Someone who cares for you has tried to G be discreet but they are ready now to reveal infor- O mation that could come as a shock. You are about O to find out why they have been trying to discourage a certain friendship. Now you understand their con- S cern you will be reviewing your links with a some- E what dubious character.

South Africa v England: Second ODI postponed Page 17

Monday December 7, 2020 ECONOMIC RECOVERY WILL BE GRADUAL FOR HOTELS

THE roll out of the Pfizer/BioNTech will want tourists to go there, just coronavirus vaccine in England as we would want them to come to is good news for Barbados, says Barbados. So, we are going to have a top regional economist. to compete with that, so our average However, Dr. Justin Ram, the daily rate is likely to be heavily Economic/Technical Advisor to the discounted for some time, and Prime Minister made it clear to mem- I think that is what we have to pay bers of Intimate Hotels of Barbados particular attention to,” he said. (IHB) that this doesn’t mean an instant Dr. Ram said that Barbados may recovery of the island’s tourism not see a return to pre-COVID arrivals sector. numbers until towards the end “I believe that there is going to be a lot of 2022. of pent-up demand for persons wanting “But your profitability may take a bit to travel and Barbados I think will be longer – might take maybe a year after oneof those destinations that people will that to recover. But I think that your definitely want to come to,” he said, also average daily rates in real terms warning that going forward competition perhaps will not return to where they will be stiff. should be maybe by 2023/2024,” the He told the small hoteliers gathered economist pointed out. for IHB’s recent end-of year meeting that “So, you will see the numbers perhaps while hotels may see a return in the coming because of all the pent-up number of visitors, return to hotel demand, but because there is going to be profitability will be slow. such a demand for those tourists all Dr. Ram explained that countries around the world everybody is around the world also want to attract the going to be discounting. And so, same British tourists, and advised that the arrivals might be up but not your local properties offer discounts so profitability, that’s why now is travellers are enticed to choose the time to transform because you Barbados. have to think about how you reduce “Because tourism has been down your costs because ultimately if your across the world, we are likely to see a average daily rate might be down you number of discounts being given to obviously have to do something on tourists because people in Thailand will your costs to help you improve on your want the tourists to come there, Greece profitability”. (TL) Economist, Dr. Justin Ram. Vaccine doesn’t mean end to pandemic, WHO Chief insists THE World Health Organization (WHO) place that limit people from mingling.As initiative – a major sprint by WHO, for. For decision makers, this means pass- Chief said that progress on COVID-19 previously seen, as these measures are UNICEF, World Bank, Global Fund and ing any legislation and policies needed to vaccines in recent days “gives us all a lift lifted, it’s important that people should Gavi – aims to help 100 countries conduct expedite the process, ensuring the regu- and we can now start to see the light at continue to follow national and local rapid readiness assessments and latory process is fit for purpose and con- the end of the tunnel”. measures to ensure that cases do not re- country-specific plans within 100 days firming that the financing is in place”. However, Director-General Dr. Tedros bound. Even as vaccines are rolled out, for vaccines and other COVID-19 The COVAX Facility, which is the Adhanom Gheybreyesus expressed people will need to keep adhering to tools. vaccine arm of the ACT-Accelerator, concern that there is a growing perception public health measures so that everyone The WHO Chief is therefore asking all intends to provide doses to enable the that the pandemic is over. is protected”. countries to do a country readiness 189 countries and economies to vaccinate He told Friday’s media briefing that With vaccines now being introduced, assessment that takes into account cold those at highest risk of the virus. the truth is that at present, many places Dr. Ghebreyesus insisted that it is really chain, health worker capacity, micro- In the first phase of the rollout, are witnessing very high transmission important that they are distributed equi- planning, initial target populations and sufficient doses will be provided to cover of the virus, which is putting enormous tably around the world. training. health and social care workers.As supply pressure on hospitals, intensive care units To do so, he said that WHO is engaging “This will form the basis of national de- increases, vaccines will be rolled out to and health workers. with their partners at all levels, working ployment and vaccination plans, which cover 20 percent of the population of “Some countries in Europe have to boost manufacturing and ensure will outline how to rollout the COVID-19 participating countries and economies, managed to reduce transmission of the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines. He also vaccines and identify any potential which will ensure further high-risk virus by putting stringent measures in revealed that a new hundred-hundred bottlenecks that will need to be planned groups are covered. (TL)

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