Established October 1895 11-Plus slated for June 22 next year

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Thursday December 31, 2020 $1 VAT Inclusive Sandals shocked by delisting ...refutes claims of protocol breaches SANDALS Barbados has expressed shock that it was removed from Government’s list of designated quarantine hotels and refutes claims that it has breached COVID-19 protocols. In swift response to the statement issued by the Ministry of Health and Wellness announcing that the world-renowned all-inclusive hotel chain has been delisted by Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George, effective January 5, Sandals said discussions were ongoing with health officials to determine why it was red-flagged in the first place. “We have always worked closely with the Ministry of Health and CMO to ensure Education Minister, Santia Bradshaw, speaking to the media. that we are in alignment with the national requirements. It is therefore surprising to note that while there are assigned Ministry of Health officials on our resort daily, at no time was any perceived breaches GRADUAL RETURN brought to our attention until we received a letter from the A BLENDED approach to Chief Medical Officer, to which teaching is to continue Students to have more face-to-face classroom time we have responded in writing when Term 2 commences refuting the assertions and on January 5 for students. with the Unit. we are working with the working with the COVID-19 requesting a further review However, preference will “The status quo remains various special needs Monitoring Unit, we will likely and follow-up meeting. be given to special needs as it was from last semester, institutions and the special see the resumption of other “We were amazed therefore pupils, those writing but the intention is that units to ensure that those classes being entered into the that as this conversation was examinations and first we move towards a gradual students can return to timetable at our respective ongoing, we had to read in the formers to have more face- reintroduction of students into normalcy in the school secondary schools.” press that the Minister of to-face classroom time. the school system. Prioritising environment over the course of About the juniors, Bradshaw Health has issued a statement Education Minister, Santia first and foremost, obviously the next couple of weeks”. stated, “We have also given speaking to delisting Sandals Bradshaw,disclosed this as well our smallest kids as well as our She also explained why in priority to first formers because Barbados as a designated as said through a phased special needs and students who addition to Class 4s, fifth and for the most part, many of our quarantine hotel.” approach more students are preparing for examination, sixth formers and those in first formers have expressed It was noted that during a eventually will return to the whether at the primary level first form were given first deep concern that making the call-in meeting with hoteliers school compound. She was at and certainly at the secondary preference. Speaking about transition from primary school on Tuesday, the Minister of the time addressing yesterday’s school level. Over the course of the senior group, she said, to secondary school has Tourism, Senator Lisa press conference at the the next couple months, the “Students who are preparing resulted in many of them not Cummins, noted that the Education Ministry. intention is for us to be able for CXC have had a relatively being able to bond with the Ministry of Health was in Bradshaw said after meeting to work with the COVID-19 rough year, in particular in other students and to meet new discussion with all hotels with education stakeholders, Monitoring Unit very closely, 2020 and many of the students students as they enter the first regarding the protocols. the Health Ministry and the with a dedicated team from who are now preparing for form environment, but they also Sandals further refuted the COVID-19 Monitoring Unit, that Unit, to help education 2021. We wanted to ensure that have not been able to have the implication that there has been “there is overall consensus to make the transition to our they were able also to be not opportunity to really even bond any issue involving the local amongst the stakeholders new norm.” particularly disadvantaged with their teachers as well. We police and guests breaching that we have to move in the Going into greater detail by being out for school. So we believe that this is particularly protocol. “There is no such issue direction of being able to allow about why priority was given to have also given priority to our important as young people are involving any Sandals guests, our students to return to the students with special needs, secondary school students who transitioning from adolescence which was confirmed when it classroom environment fully”. Bradshaw said these students are at the fifth form, sixth into teenage years in particular was brought to the attention of This however will be done more than any others “have form level to ensure that they and we want to make sure the Minister of Tourism. gradually “over the course of particular challenges not can return to the school that we give them the best the next few weeks” as the having the same routine that environment and then over the opportunity to at least have SANDALS on Page 4 Education Ministry works they are accustomed to and so course of the next few weeks some degree of normalcy.” (MG) 2 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

A call for help QEH’s bed management programme FOUNDER of the and I do not think they Blessed Widows would want to know their receives $10 000 donation from BCIC Ministries (BWM), wives were left behind, Sharmane Roland- found it difficult to make THE Bed Management effectively deploy the re- been on the island for sponsibility to give back Bowen, is again making ends meet and no one Unit at the Queen sources at their disposal. just three years, with op- to the community,” she an appeal for the sought to help them,” she Elizabeth Hospital “We are very grateful erations also in Jamaica said. Church and society in added. (QEH) will be heading for this acknowledge- and the Turks and Caicos Despite their time in general to offer help to Roland-Bowen is also into 2021 with some ment and generosity Islands, Nurse noted that Barbados only having the widows in need in reiterating her call for much-needed assistance in supporting our it had been a tough year just started, Claims this country. Christian-minded arti- as they were presented Bed Management pro- for all and said that the Supervisor Ramon Roland-Bowen said that sans and professionals to with a donation of gramme. It is a new pro- small token was expected Goodman said that his the ministry,which is now lend their assistance to $10,000 by the British gramme at the hospital to make a meaningful company still had a so- two years old, has been the cause by volunteering Caribbean Insurance and it has been very suc- impact on the local soci- cial corporate responsi- doing good work during their time and services. Company (BCIC). cessful. In times of con- ety. bility to stand by. “At that period, but she “That includes skilled During a short cere- strained resources, you “We thought at BCIC BCIC, we are very pas- acknowledged that the workers such as carpen- mony that was held at can’t just ask for more that the best way that we sionate when it comes to COVID-19 pandemic, ters, painters, gardeners the company’s Manor and more and more. You could show that we could our social responsibility which resulted in the and masons, or profession- Lodge headquarters yes- have to become more give back to the commu- and employee volun- shutdown of the country als such as lawyers from terday, Branch Manager efficient and the Bed nity would be to serve teerism. We could not for several weeks, made within the Church be- Amanda Nurse handed Management Unit is our the Geriatric Unit and to stand idly back and see it somewhat difficult to cause oftentimes these over the cheque to focal point, so that we can help the seniors on this the impact that COVID accomplish all that they women need assistance Director of Medical utilise the beds and re- island. This has been a would have had on the want to. Nevertheless, she but cannot afford it. And Services at the hospital, sources we have more ef- year like no other and society on a whole and said that BWM’s goal re- yes we know things are Dr. Clyde Cave. ficiently and move people this is our way in a small the less fortunate and mains to empower and hard at this time, but it is Noting that the from the tertiary care of way of just giving back do nothing. We also offer equip widows over the age by helping one another Bed Management pro- the hospital into more and showing that we great products and great of 55, who do not have any that we help ourselves,” gramme was a new ini- appropriate placements care. We have been on customer service. But male companions, to not the BWM’s head insisted. tiative at the hospital, Dr. where they deserve to this island now for three, again, we take our social only “stand on their own (JRT) Cave explained that the be,” he said. going on four years and responsibility very seri- two feet”, but excel. With funds would be used to With BCIC having we feel it is our social re- ously,” he said. (MP) that in mind, she said going into the new year, she is hoping that things will improve and more churches, individuals and companies alike would be able to lend a hand to the cause. “We just came out of the Christmas season and there were widows we would have helped to have a better Christmas, pro- viding such things as food items, and as we go into the new year, we want to be able to continue to as- sist them and in turn help them to help themselves,” she told The Barbados Advocate. She made the point while indicating that one of their goals is to assist widows whose household incomes have been re- duced because of the death of their husbands, or even due to the pandemic, to ac- quire new skills that they can utilise to become gain- fully employed or even BCIC Branch Manager, Amanda Nurse, handing over the cheque to QEH Director of the Medical Services, Dr. Clyde Cave. self-employed. Her com- ments came as she said that since starting the ministry, they have been Sandals removed as designated quarantine hotel able to secure a few jobs for some of the widows ON Monday, Minister of According to a state- Health and Wellness diately review the stan- time for speaking is over. they have reached out to Health and Wellness, Lt. ment issued by the takes the issue of dard operating proce- “And for those entities and she expressed appre- Col. Jeffrey Bostic, issued Ministry of Health and breaches of the COVID-19 dures with respect to the that breach or continue to ciation to those individu- a warning that some Wellness, this action protocols very seriously prevention and control of breach the protocols, we als as well as members of hotels could find them- was taken after several and will take similar ac- COVID-19 in Barbados.” are going to take action the private sector for step- selves removed from verified complaints of tion if other designated On Monday evening, and that action I can tell ping up to the plate. Government’s designated breaches of the COVID-19 quarantine hotels and vil- Minister Bostic, during a you is in progress as I “We want to thank them quarantining hotels for protocols taking place at las refuse to uphold the press briefing, stated: “We speak, because we are in- and we want to encourage breaking protocols. the resort with respect to rules and regulations that have had some breaches vestigating a few matters, others to do the same. The next day his words visitors in quarantine. have been put in place from quarantine.We have not related to people There is a part for each rang true with Sandals “Additionally, police to protect workers in the taken swift action to leaving quarantine, but and every person to play. Barbados Resort and Spa have held for questioning hotel sector, and by ex- correct those and we are to breaches of protocol Married women do not being the first to be at least three tourists tension the rest of the satisfied that we have within some of our hotels know if that fate would delisted by Chief Medical in relation to alleged country. that at this point, those and action is being taken befall them and even our Officer, Dr. Kenneth breaches of COVID-19 “Designated quarantine breaches under control. and will continue to be men, they cannot tell what George, effective January protocols related to quar- hotels are advised to take But I want to say, beyond taken until we are able to would happen to them, 5, 2021. antine. The Ministry of this opportunity to imme- a shadow of a doubt, that see the desired results.” The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 3

11-Plus slated for June 22 next year Hoping and waiting JUNE 22 is the date set where she shared the the June 22nd, 2021.” hope that parents, teach- for next year’s proposal for Terms 2 and She added, “It has ers and certainly our stu- on full roll-out of Barbados Secondary 3 for the academic year arisen out of several rep- dents breathe a sigh of Schools’ Entrance 2020-2021. resentations by teachers relief over the course of Examination (BSSEE). “We have also recog- indicating a better level the next few days and breathalyser testing This announcement nised that the date for of comfort if they had the certainly the coming came from Education the 11-Plus exam, which additional time to com- weeks and months as it By Marsha Gittens they carried it out can- Minister, Santia was traditionally sched- plete the syllabus and relates to their prepara- not be questioned in Bradshaw, who said the uled in May, is perhaps also a preference that we tion for that particular PRESIDENT of the court.” decision on the particu- not going to be practical didn’t move it until July, examination.” Barbados Road Safety She added, “You need lar date came about after for persons to be able to which is obviously in the During the past aca- Association (BRSA), to get within a certain consultations with key sit that exam on that high peak of their vaca- demic year, the date for Sharmane Roland- distance of the persons stakeholders, which in- date, given the amount of tion, as would have hap- the Common Entrance Bowen, remains hopeful in order to administer it, cluded Class 4 teachers time that has been lost pened last year. So at this Examination was slated breathalyser testing and it has to do with the at schools island-wide. and so a decision has point, the Common for May 5. This however will be rolled out locally breath and so, so what is She spoke at yester- been taken by the Entrance Examination is was postponed until July sooner rather than happening is because of day’s press conference at Ministry to allow the now going to be sched- 14 because of the COVID- later. COVID [it] has been set the Education Ministry moving of the date until uled for June 22nd and I 19 pandemic. (MG) The law, which allows back a bit.” the use of this device by Back in February, law enforcement, came acting Commissioner Bishop-elect shares into effect from January of Police, Erwin Boyce, 1, this year. informed the press that Roland-Bowen ex- the Royal Barbados views on youth, plained that before Police Force was focus- breathalyser testing can ing on public education come fully on-stream, before going the route of outreach and COVID police officers have to fully enforcing the new BISHOP-ELECT of the matter of community out- be trained in its use. law. Catholic Diocese of reach, the Bishop-elect Additionally,public edu- The BRSA president Bridgetown, Father Neil said he is of the firm belief cation is needed. She said she is aware steps Scantlebury, says he is in- that community outreach stated this is currently are to be taken in prep- terested in seeing more by the Church is impor- the point where it is at. aration for when the young people become in- tant. He made the point She further stated the breathalyser comes fully volved in the Church. while commending the COVID-19 pandemic has on-stream. However, His comments came as current efforts being un- caused some delays. she noted time is of the he noted that the matter of dertaken by the Diocese “I am still hoping and essence. getting more young people including the St. Vincent waiting on the breathal- “Don’t waste the time, involved in the Church is de Paul Society, which as- yser, but we know that train the officers in the always on the mind of sists families in need. our hands are tied where correct procedures of priests. He spoke to this “I do believe we need to that is concerned. how to administer it and during a virtual call with be seen in the community “At present, it is with also, use the time to ed- the media earlier this doing the good, helping the police. Everything ucate the public because week, following Monday’s those in need and helping Bishop-elect of the Catholic Diocese of Bridgetown, has been passed, the we know it is coming and announcement that he the poor.That’s a very crit- Father Neil Scantlebury. limit has been sorted out there are questions that would be appointed as ical aspect of living the and so on, but it is with the public have. So use the next Bishop of faith, the charitable deed wherever there is need, encouraging others to do the police. But before the this time to educate the Bridgetown. to be done to the other the Church has a duty to the same. police can implement it, people on how it will be “I will broach the subject person,” he said. be there to lend a hand, “The COVID has they need to be trained administered, so they with the priests to hear Scantlebury added,“Our whether physically, finan- brought about death, [but] like how to be competent would know how to what needs to be done, faith needs to be seen in cially or through prayer. it brings to reality that we in the area of adminis- breathe into the what activities need to our actions and what good Meanwhile, he also are not here forever; it tering it to people be- breathalyser.” take place to get our youth is our faith to say, ‘I have shared his thoughts on the brings to reality that we cause you want when She continued, “They back,” said Scantlebury, faith and no works...?’ We COVID-19 pandemic, indi- need to appreciate one they give it, they follow would also know that it who is expected to take up need to have the faith and cating that despite the another while we are still the correct procedures. is sanitary because the the role as Bishop towards we need to have the works. negative impact the highly alive, to give Jack his So that if some person is mouth piece is going to the end of the first quarter Our works need to show contagious virus has had jacket [and] to give flow- found above the limit, be changed; they come of 2021. our faith.” on society, he has adopted ers to persons while they they cannot question the individually packaged. Touching also on the He went on to say that a positive outlook and is are alive,” he stated. (JRT) police action or the way This is what the people need to know. So this time could be used; in- Changes in COVID-19 travel protocols effective December 28 stead of wasting this time whilst we are wait- BARBADOS’ updated PCR tests must be taken COVID-19 PCR test, five dation before they receive to the medium risk cate- ing on COVID to subside COVID-19 travel proto- by nasopharyngeal or days after their first neg- their second COVID-19 gory. or to go back where it cols, which took effect oropharyngeal sample, ative test, but not less negative test result. The Ministry of Health came from, we can be from Monday, December or both. Saliva or nasal than 48 hours after they Costa Rica, El and Wellness reserves using this time to edu- 28, indicate that due swabs will not be ac- arrive in Barbados. Test Salvador, Grenada, the right to require test- cate police officers so to limited capacity, cepted. Self-samples, results should be re- Guatemala and Portugal ing of any person, regard- that when it comes on- Government’s free quar- rapid tests, or home tests turned within 24 to 48 have been added to the less of documentation stream … that we can antine facilities will be will be considered in- hours of the sample ar- list of high risk countries. presented or any other go right out and start reserved for Barbadians valid. riving at the laboratory. Meanwhile, Dominica, requirement, obligation administering the and permanent residents Upon arrival in Persons are reminded St. Kitts and Nevis, and or condition associated breathalyser testing of arriving on the island. Barbados, travellers will that they are not allowed St. Vincent and the with their assigned risk persons to see who is It is now also manda- receive their second to leave their accommo- Grenadines have shifted category. above the alcohol limit.” tory for all persons trav- elling to Barbados from high and medium risk Promoters reminded to apply for permission to stage events countries to have a nega- tive COVID-19 test re- PROMOTERS are Act (VAT) Cap. 87, All promoters are re- Forms are available on- in the Public sult, which should be reminded that they promoters of Public quired to download and line at bra.gov.bb. Entertainment Act, taken at an accredited or are required to apply to Entertainment must be complete the Declaration Persons are also re- Cap. 85A. certified facility within the Barbados Revenue registered in TAMIS for for the Promotion of minded that events must Please note that BRA three days prior to ar- Authority (BRA) for per- VAT, regardless of the Public Entertainment only be held at places li- officers are in the field rival. mission to stage an event. amount of income gen- form, and e-mail it to censed for public enter- to conduct compliance Acceptable COVID-19 Under the Value Added erated. [email protected]. tainment, as stipulated visits. 4• Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Sandals Foundation partners with Jabez House Feed A Family Food Drive THE warmth of the basic needs. holiday season for vul- “Christmas is a time nerable households which beckons us all to across Barbados will take a closer look around be a little more special us and see how we can this year following the each support another. Sandals Foundation Every little counts in help- joining the Jabez ing to bring joy and a House Feed A Family sense of love to those who Food Drive and ex- need it the most,” Gilpin tending the reach and said. impact of the initia- Shamelle Rice, Founder tive. and Director at Jabez In addition to the 22 House, expressed grati- female-led families sup- tude for the continued ported by Jabez House, support of the Food Drive, sponsorship from the which is now celebrating Sandals Foundation will its third year. see an additional 20 “We are extremely From left to right: Shamelle Rice, Founder and Director at Jabez House, Melissa Hope of Sandals, Racquel households from two grateful to all our partners Green of Jabez House and Resort Manager Patrick Drake are all excited to be a part of this worthy donation. registered charities – and families who have Breaking Bread and The consistently come on welcome relief. (60) women through tar- H.U.R.T. (Help Us Reach board to purchase, pack He said, “It is our duty geted skills training and Public urged Them) Initiative – receiv- and donate to our ladies. as a resort to do what we economic empowerment Gov’t offices ing care packages com- Christmas can be a par- can to serve the communi- opportunities since 2018. prising food items and in- ticularly challenging time ties in which we call home. Continued financing to close to report gredients to supplement of the year for many of the We will continue to engage of the skills training pro- their Yuletide meals. clients we serve, and their our team members to be gramme engages Jabez early today COVID -19 Patrice Gilpin, Public children. Making a differ- active change makers and House clients in Hair Relations Manager at ence to ensure they can engage our guests to sup- Braiding and Weaving, GOVERNMENT of- breaches Sandals Foundation, says have a smile on their faces port solutions.” Nail Technology,Make-Up fices will close at 1:00 the Jabez House outreach on Christmas Day is very Jabez House, Sobrino Artistry, Business Basics p.m. today, Thursday, THE Ministry of Health partnership forms part of precious to us,” Rice continued, “has been a courses and more. December 31, and and Wellness is encour- its continued effort to sup- stated. shining light in the lives of This year, the Sandals persons are advised aging members of the port the welfare needs of Ramel Sobrino, General the ladies they support Foundation also provided to plan their business public to assist the Caribbean communities. Manager of the Sandals and knowing that the support to the Counselling accordingly. COVID-19 Monitoring “This has been an Resorts who led a team benefiting families will Support and Life The Head of the Unit by calling to report extraordinary year for of volunteers, including have a good Christmas is Coaching programmes, Public Service has actual or suspected families across the region. Resort Manager Patrick reward enough for all of which provided mental apologised for any breaches of COVID-19 Since March, we have Drake and Public us at Sandals.” wellness support to better inconvenience this protocols at any New worked with numerous Relations Manager David The Sandals cope with personal early closure may Year’s Eve events. organisations to distribute Hinds, who helped pack Foundation has been a trauma and the evolving cause. The number to call is more than one thousand and prepare the packages, long-standing partner of psychological stresses ex- 536-3865. care packages to help said the service project Jabez House, helping to acerbated by the COVID- people meet some of their will undoubtedly bring a engage more than sixty 19 pandemic. ‘Extensive measures taken’ SANDALS from Page 1 culty.” Sandals extended an “As the World’s Leading invitation to the Minister All-Inclusive Company, of Tourism, the Minister we have not only the ca- of Health and the Chief pacity but the experience Medical Officer, to see the to implement the re- protocols in action. quired protocols effec- “Through our Sandals tively. In fact, we have Platinum Protocols of separated our two hotels Cleanliness, we have so that one is used exclu- taken industry-leading sively as a quarantine steps to ensure the health facility, before guests and well-being of our move to the second hotel valued guests and team to enjoy their vacation. members. These protocols “These hotels are oper- are strictly enforced and ated as separate entities, have ensured that all with zero co-mingling of proven measures as rec- guests in order to ensure ommended by leading that all arrivals are prop- international public erly quarantined. This health authorities are is just one example of taken to minimise risks the extensive measures to the maximum extent taken to ensure travellers possible. are in compliance to allow “Sandals remains guests ease and comfort dedicated to continuing while they abide by to ensure stringent com- Sandals Barbados Resort Manager, Patrick Drake, leading the packaging efforts while Sandals accountant, mandatory quarantine pliance of any and all new Melissa Hope and Racquel Green of Jabez House mark as completed. procedures without diffi- processes.”

The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 5

2021 must be the Year of CARICOM: Incoming Chairman, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley WHILE praising said as he prepares to as- allowed us to control the brought upon us by the the Caribbean sume the Chairmanship spread of the virus,” the virus’. Community’s rela- of CARICOM on 1 Chairman said. “Even as we vigorously tively successful man- January, 2021. “Chief among these is pursue the possibilities agement of the health “We have the tools to do the discipline to maintain of support from the aspects of COVID-19 it. 2021 must be the Year the protocols that help to International Financial this year, CARICOM’s of CARICOM,” the incom- avoid being contami- Institutions and other incoming Chairman, ing Chairman said in his nated. The less strain we avenues, we must look Prime Minister Dr. New Year Message. put on the health systems at making full use of Keith Rowley of Dr. Rowley said the will directly benefit the the CARICOM Single Trinidad and Tobago successful management economic and financial Market and Economy is challenging the of the health aspects situation,” he added. (CSME) as our principal regional integration of COVID-19 by the The Caribbean means of recovery,” the movement towards concerted effort of all Community has signed CARICOM Chairman stronger outcomes in arms of the Community on to the COVAX Facility said. the year ahead. – Member States, through which to access “It is that confidence in “Let this be the year Institutions and the the COVID-19 vaccine ourselves and our insti- that we make CARICOM citizens, ‘demonstrated and with it the possibility tutions, our intellectual work for us, as we build without a doubt that the of relief from the health capacity and creativity, back better and construct answer to COVID-19 is and socio-economic chal- and the platform we have CARICOM’s incoming Chairman, Prime Minister of the resilient society that CARICOM! lenges posed by the pan- laid which will lead us on Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Keith Rowley. will provide a safe, “In the recovery phase, demic. However, Dr. the path to recovery,” he prosperous and viable we must employ the same Rowley reminded that it added. may have been side-lined tion unit approaching its Community for all of us,” collective, co-ordinated will not be ‘an immediate “Pursuing the plans to by the urgent needs of the 50th anniversary.The ex- Prime Minister Rowley and focussed actions that panacea for the ills advance the CSME that past year must be a prior- ample has been set time ity to help propel us out of and again in adversity. the negative socio-eco- That is the approach that nomic outlook that has we must adopt across the been forecast,” Dr. Rowley board to transform our said. Community post COVID “Harnessing all of our and beyond. resources, human, natu- “As Chairman of the ral and financial, to lead Caribbean Community, this recovery process will I wish you all a Happy be a clear signal of our New Year and please stay maturity as an integra- safe.” Unnatural death investigation POLICE at Hastings/ arrival, Police learnt Worthing Police Station that the deceased was are carrying out investi- transported to the QEH gations into the circum- by private motor car. stances surrounding the Further investigations shooting death of Mekail revealed that the victim Zeco Alonzo Harding, 27 was pronounced dead years of Williams Road, on arrival at the Queen The laboratory has performed 69,252 tests since February 2020. Upper Collymore Rock, St. Elizabeth Hospital. Michael, which occurred about 9:15 p.m. on Police are appealing COVID-19 update: One new case, five recoveries Tuesday, December 29th, to anyone who may have 2020 at Williams Road, information about this ONE person tested visitor, who is asymp- recorded 372 confirmed recoveries to 312. Upper Collymore, St. shooting incident, to con- positive for COVID-19 tomatic, arrived in cases – 200 females and Persons in isolation have Michael. tact Police Emergency at from the 574 tests com- Barbados on SVG Air on 172 males.Five persons dropped to 53. 211, Hastings/Worthing pleted by the Best-dos December 21, and tested were discharged from The laboratory Circumstances Police Station at 430- Santos Public Health positive on his second the Harrison Point has performed 69,252 About 9:26 p.m., Police 7614, Crime Stoppers at Laboratory on Tuesday. test. Isolation Facility on tests since February received a report of a man 1-800-TIPS (8477) or any The 33-year-old male Barbados has now Wednesday, bringing 2020. being shot and injured. On Police Station. CARICOM congratulates Haiti on 217th Independence Anniversary THE Caribbean highlighting the impact afield, and to celebrate “Excellency, in extend- General said. domitable spirit, without Community CARICOM of the country’s inspiring this auspicious occasion ing our best wishes on He noted that the which there is no pos- has congratulated the history on the Region. with them,” CARICOM this anniversary, it is Community’s best sibility or promise of a Government and People “The Community joins Secretary-General, hoped that the rich his- wishes are extended as better future. of the Republic Haiti with the People of Haiti Ambassador Irwin tory and symbolism it the Government and Haiti is a Member on its Two Hundred to honour their inspiring LaRocque, said in his represents will continue People strive to over- of the Caribbean and Seventeenth history which has been congratulatory message to be a source of national come the inevitable Community (CARI- Anniversary of a guiding light for to Haiti’s President H.E. unity and pride for all challenges that arise, COM), having joined in Independence, while the Region and further Jovenel Moïse. Haitians,” the Secretary- buoyed by their in- 2002. 6 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

A Christmas of need

FOR the little old lady cumstances some families in Grazettes on the are facing. cusp of celebrating her On Saturday, a small 100th birthday, it was army of volunteers from another Christmas Rotary Club of Barbados without basic toilet South, members of the facilities. Rotaract club, the youth As appalling as that is, arm, friends and family she was not the only per- gathered at Guardian son in need when some General Insurance on families were celebrating Collymore Rock from this Christian landmark early morning in their tra- with plenty to eat and ditional Christmas spirit drink. to pack and later distrib- Service clubs are report- ute 254 hampers. ing an increase in re- For Sonya Alleyne, the quests from families in district Governor-elect need of assistance, while for next year, the first corporate Barbados, itself Barbadian female being hit by reduced earnings elevated to this position, associated with the Covid- service clubs such as 19 pandemic, has not been Rotary have a critical role as forthcoming as in the to play, especially at this past to support worthy time. causes. Assisting families with Pricemart, the Green hampers and in other Many hands make light work as Rotarians pitch in to pack Christmas hampers. Hill-based wholesaler, ways is a year-round proj- Digicel and Channell and ect. Alleyne reported that donate an additional 600 help to improve lives,” areas such as food sup- crease in demand has Trimart supermarkets are Pricemart donated 40 000 hampers in 2020. Alleyne noted. The dona- plies and home repairs. been exponential,” said among the companies that dollars from their philan- “We still have a lot of tions are used to help per- “We know about the George Connolly, the have stepped up in re- thropy programme, which work to do. We can’t do it sons in communities good work that Rotary President-elect of Rotary sponse to the difficult cir- has allowed the club to all. We look to how we can across the island who does,” said Daniel, who de- Club of Barbados South have lost jobs, are ill or scribed the Christmas for 2021. have other major needs. Hand-up project as “an “What we have tried to Marketing Manager at amazing initiative”. do as best we could is to Digicel, Risha Daniel, The Rotaract Club of step up our assistance recently signed a Barbados South plays a programme and our lob- Memorandum of Under- key role in supporting bying for fund raising standing with the club for Rotarian initiatives. through groups like 41 000 dollars while sup- President Dana Walcott Digicel. port has also come from said this youth arm of “This is a small but im- Channell and Trimart su- Rotary accepts members portant step in offering as- permarkets, who are do- from 18 years old. sistance to those we think nating three cents from “This year what we have are in absolute dire need,” every dollar spent at their seen is a demand for a lot Connolly added. five locations to help in more assistance. The in- (HH)

The Rotary Club of Barbados South pulled off another successful year with its Christmas Hand-up hamper project for the needy. The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 7 China strengthens compliance supervision of elderly care services BEIJING – Chinese civil establishing and improv- people and institutions with the civil affairs min- 12 national standards for tutions have disclosed 851 affairs authorities will ing a comprehensive su- guilty of such offences, in- istry. elderly care services, cov- standards that they imple- strengthen vocational and pervision system for eld- cluding denying them ac- “All elderly care institu- ering areas including day- ment,” Chen noted. legal education for nurs- erly care services to boost cess to the industry. tions should rectify their care in communities and China revised its Law ing staff to eliminate mal- the sector’s high-quality China rolled out its first shortcomings according to tourism for the seniors, on the Protection of the treatment in elderly care development. set of mandatory national the mandatory standards said Chen Hongjun, an of- Rights and Interests of institutions in the country, “We exercise zero toler- standards on senior care during the two-year tran- ficial with the administra- the Elderly in 2018. It al- a senior official said on ance for a few nursing in January to provide bot- sition period. Those who tion. He added that elderly lows elderly care institu- Tuesday. staff cheating and mal- tom-line requirements for fail to meet the standards care institutions are en- tions to start operating Gao Xiaobing, vice min- treating the elderly in a service quality within the will be banned,” said Yu. couraged to participate in after filing with civil af- ister of civil affairs, made few senior care institu- sector. It will come into ef- The State Adminis- formulating competitive fairs departments of the the remarks at a policy tions,” Gao said, pledging fect in January 2022, said tration for Market standards. governments at or above briefing on guidelines for punishments for those Yu Jianliang, an official Regulation has released “So far,85 nursing insti- county levels. Mixed blessing for Chinese sports industry in 2020 BEIJING – The year fitness and training com- 2020 was a mixed bless- panies closed for three ing for China’s sports and a half months, and industry. sports supplies manufac- Before the COVID-19 turing enterprises closed pandemic, the sports for about a month and a industry was on a fast half. track of steady growth. All seven ski resorts in According to statistics Chongli district of Hebei from the China General province were suspended Administration of Sport, at the beginning of this the total size of the sports year, and Thaiwoo Ski industry grew at an aver- Resort was one of them. age annual rate of 15.9 per Nie Ningning, vice pres- cent, and the added value ident of the ski resort, de- grew at an average annual scribed this as the biggest rate of 22.4 per cent from crisis since its opening. 2015 to 2018. “Before January 18, we However, the sudden had an average daily in- outbreak of the COVID-19 come of two million yuan epidemic has had a (US$306 000), an 80 per Ice hockey lovers take part in training at a rink in Zhangjiakou economic development zone in Zhangjiakou, huge impact on China’s cent increase over the north China’s Hebei Province on Dec. 12, 2020. sports industry. Almost same period last year,” re- all major domestic and in- called Nie. But good days water and electricity sub- the number of visitors and iors and consumption re- over the same period of ternational sporting didn’t last and the huge sidies, to help the ski re- revenue in November in- lated to sports goods at 2019,” said Liu Fumin, di- events were rescheduled maintenance costs added a sorts to tide over the diffi- creased by more than 50 home all increased signif- rector of the Department or cancelled in the first lot of pressure. culties. Some ski resorts percent, compared with icantly. of Sports Economics of half of the year. People Several local govern- are also digging in the the same period last year. The total profit of the China General were reluctant to go out- ments provided support- summer market, looking “Everything is in order, home fitness equipment Administration of Sport. side, and most sports com- ing measures to the re- for a turning point. and I believe the new snow industry reached 610 mil- Liu is confident in the panies struggled to do sumption of work, helping Thaiwoo Ski Resort suc- season will be a good turn- lion yuan from January to future. “The sports indus- business. Some didn’t the sports companies sur- cessively hosted a series of around,” said Nie. May, up 50 percent year- try has been influenced, survive. vive the difficult period. activities from July to The epidemic also made on-year, according to sta- but at the same time, the According to a research Some provinces and re- October. more people focus on fit- tistics from relevant insti- Chinese economy is still report of 2020 resumption gions issued sports con- “Although the summer ness and health, which tutions. moving ahead, and the of work in the sports in- sumption vouchers to operation period was three helped boost the sales of “The sales of fitness Chinese sports industry is dustry in Jiangsu province boost the rapid recovery of months shorter than fitness equipment. equipment has been in- still developing,” he said. released by the Jiangsu the sports consumption usual, our summer rev- According to the 2020 creasing. According to the “I’m sure that the sports Province Sports Bureau, market. enue is basically flat with Research Report on Public Suning platform, sales of industry will play a more all of the 116 surveyed Chongli District intro- last year,” said Nie. Fitness Behaviours and dumbbells, hula hoops, important role in the sports venues closed for duced seven specific meas- The new snow season Consumption released in and yoga mats increased Chinese economy in the nearly three months, 125 ures, such as tax cuts, and also had a good start, as September, fitness behav- by more than 300 percent future.” China encourages foreign investment in more industries BEIJING – China’s the commerce ministry. central and western re- to give better play to fields such as taxation and been slashed to 33 from 40 National Development Meanwhile, up to 88 ex- gions encouraging foreign the positive role of foreign land use subject to laws in 2019. and Reform Commission isting items have been investment has intro- investment in industrial and regulations. Building on effective and the Ministry of modified to expand their duced 62 new items and and supply chains, further The new catalogue containment of the Commerce on Monday re- coverage. modified 37, it said. encourage foreign invest- will come into effect on COVID-19 epidemic and leased a revised industry The increase is relevant New sectors added to ment in advanced manu- Jan. 27, 2021, the ministry measures to stabilise for- catalogue that names particularly in the context the national-level sub-cat- facturing, producer serv- said. eign investment, foreign more sectors encouraging of items related to manu- alogue include respirators, ices and competitive To further open up its direct investment in the foreign investment. facturing, producer serv- ECMO (extracorporeal industries in the central market, China unveiled Chinese mainland, in ac- Compared with the cur- ices, and those in the cen- membrane oxygenation) and western regions, said new, shortened negative tual use, expanded 5.5 per- rent version, the new list tral and western regions, devices, online education the ministry. lists for foreign invest- cent year on year in has 127 more items, a rise according to the commerce service and 5G mobile Foreign investors enter- ment in late June, and November, marking the of 10 per cent in the num- ministry. telecommunication tech- ing industries on the cata- until now the number of eighth consecutive month ber of sectors encouraging The sub-catalogue of nologies. logue will benefit from sectors that are off limits of growth, official data foreign investment, said competitive industries in The revision aims preferential policies in to foreign investors has showed. 8 • Thursday December 31, 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 Trump pardon of Blackwater Iraq 2021, here contractors violates int’l law – U.N. GENEVA – U.S. unarmed Iraqi civilians. to hold war criminals strongly criticised by President Donald The four contractors, accountable for their many in the United we come! Trump’s pardon of four who worked for the crimes, even when they States. General David American men convicted private security firm act as private security Petraeus and Ryan TODAY is the final day of a tumultuous year that of killing Iraqi civilians Blackwater owned by the contractors, the U.N. Crocker, respectively upturned many hopes and dreams across the world. while working as brother of Trump’s experts said. commander of U.S. forces Not one of us was untouched by the COVID-19 contractors in 2007 education secretary,were “These pardons violate and U.S. ambassador in pandemic, which crippled even the most powerful violated U.S. obligations included in a wave of pre- U.S. obligations under Iraq at the time of the nations around the globe. under international law, Christmas pardons international law and incident, called Trump’s We entered 2020 believing that it held endless U.N. human rights announced by the White more broadly undermine pardons “hugely possibilities that we could capitalise on, but such experts said yesterday. House. humanitarian law and damaging, an action that thoughts came to a screeching halt in the first quarter Nicholas Slatten was “Pardoning the human rights at a global tells the world that of the year, when it was clear that the novel convicted of first-degree Blackwater contractors is level.” Americans abroad can coronavirus, and indeed the fear associated with the murder, while Paul an affront to justice and By allowing private commit the most heinous virus, were spreading faster than wildfire. Certainly Slough, Evan Liberty and to the victims of the security contractors to crimes with impunity”. no one imagined the devastating knock-on effects that Dustin Heard were Nisour Square massacre “operate with impunity in In a statement the pandemic would have, for we did not only have to convicted of voluntary and their families,” said armed conflicts”, states announcing the pardons, deal with the direct impact on our health systems, the and attempted Jelena Aparac, chair of will be emboldened to the White House said the knock-on effects went far beyond health and touched manslaughter, over the the U.N. working group circumvent their move was “broadly employment, livelihoods, industries and the list goes incident in which U.S. on the use of mercenaries, obligations under supported by the public” on. contractors opened fire in said in a statement. humanitarian law, they and backed by a number What we saw was that while there were the obvious busy traffic in a Baghdad The Geneva said. of Republican health consequences, with travel by air and sea being square and killed 14 Conventions oblige states The pardons were lawmakers. restricted and even suspended, a sector that is the lifeblood of many countries including Barbados, simply stopped functioning, as did many jobs directly and indirectly associated with that industry. If ever we UK to roll out Astra/Oxford COVID were uncertain what tourism meant to the Barbados economy,we are not anymore, because a shutdown of that sector saw thousands going on the breadline and resulted in many of our people, and dare we say vaccine after world-first approval companies, being on the brink of financial ruin. LONDON – Britain rate for the increasing number of Celsius (-94 Fahrenheit). While many people found themselves out of work, yesterday became the first administration of two full cases, the approval... is India’s Serum Institute with no money, no savings and found it hard to make country to approve the doses, three months apart, tremendous news,” he of India (SII), the world’s ends meet, the fact is many companies also faced coronavirus vaccine higher than the average said. “However, the biggest producer of similar challenges. In both cases, few of them had developed by Oxford that the developers reported news does leave vaccines, has made about prepared for a rainy day. Many businesses, in University and themselves had found. unanswered a number of 50 million doses of the particular, did not have business continuity plans to AstraZeneca, hoping that The government plans important questions, Oxford vaccine. ensure the core functions of their entities could rapid action will help it to take advantage by particularly regarding the Experts at India’s drug continue to operate should a disaster strike, and stem a record surge of giving the first dose to a longer term.” regulator met yesterday to without a doubt COVID-19 was a disaster like we infections driven by a larger number of people The government said it consider an emergency have never seen before. As a result we saw a move highly contagious form of most at risk from COVID- would not recommend one approval, and will discuss towards staff working from home or working remotely, the virus. 19 before starting to vaccine over another for the issue again on Friday. and certainly we have all seen that there has been Prime Minister Boris administer the boosters. different cohorts of the Chile is also interested. merit in adopting that approach, from the office to the Johnson’s government, An advisory body population, even though World Health classroom.What it should certainly make us realise is which has ordered 100 recommended doing the data on the Organization spokesman that it is imperative that given that for many the million doses, had already same with the Pfizer shot, AstraZeneca/Oxford shot’s Tarik Jasarevic said the home is still the workplace, there is a need to have the fast-tracked approval of a though Pfizer said its efficacy in older people is latest vaccine was requisite legislative environment in place to protect vaccine developed by vaccine had not been currently limited. important for its “delivery workers. Pfizer and Germany’s tested on different dosing attributes, the potential We here in Barbados have even gone as far as to BioNTech, and schedules. Infections soar scale and affordability”. encourage persons across the world to make use of our administered hundreds of Jeremy Farrar, one of Britain has already Helen Fletcher, 12-month Welcome Stamp, which gives visitors the thousands of shots weeks Britain’s leading public registered over 70,000 Professor of Immunology option to work remotely from Barbados for a year at ahead of European Union health experts, said the deaths from COVID-19. at the London School of a time. But, if we are to really capitalise on that, we countries and the United approval of the On Tuesday it reported a Hygiene and Tropical must ensure that the appropriate long-term strategy States. AstraZeneca/Oxford shot record one-day jump of Medicine, hailed a and infrastructure are in place to make the best of the Though cheaper and was to be celebrated, but 53,135 new coronavirus “turning point” for the opportunity. easier to distribute than urged continuing scrutiny, infections, and it fears pandemic, which has But that was not the only initiative that has been rival vaccines, the recommending the hospitals will soon become already killed 1.7 million born out of the pandemic, and it has shown us that AstraZeneca/Oxford shot developers conduct a overstretched in their people around the world, while 2020 was challenging and did not at all go the has been plagued with randomised trial to test peak winter months. sown chaos through the way we had hoped, as the opportunities that usually questions about its most the timing of the second The AstraZeneca/ global economy and come with a new year were reduced, there were still effective dosage ever since dose. Oxford vaccine could also upended normal life for opportunities to be had. We saw many companies, data published last month Jonathan Stoye, a be a game-changer for billions. supermarkets and restaurants especially,start to offer showed some surprising virologist at the Francis global immunisation. “With more than 30 their products online, something that could have and results. Crick Institute, agreed Countries with relatively supply agreements and should have been done long ago. But, it took a While other regulators that questions remain basic health partner networks pandemic to fast track it.We also saw many businesses have taken a more about the real efficacy of infrastructure have high established globally, offering delivery services – also long overdue. cautious approach, the vaccine, how well it hopes for a shot that, the Oxford/AstraZeneca So the pandemic was not bad and as we move into Britain’s MHRA was at works in older people, and unlike Pfizer’s, can be vaccine could slow the a new year,with new variants of the virus circulating, pains to say it had what data exists to stored and transported pandemic and should and a second and possibly third wave likely to impact resolved early doubts and support the change in under normal save many lives within us,we can again tap into that ingenuity and not allow – unexpectedly – that it dosage interval. refrigeration, rather than the next year,” she this pandemic or any other challenge to keep us down. had found an 80% success “In light of the sharply supercooled to -70 degrees said. We are resourceful people, and must ensure that we continue to inspire out-of-the-box thinking, being Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes innovative, open-minded, adaptable, optimistic 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 persistent, so as to come up with every possible way Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan that we achieve success in the coming year. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 9

US crude inventories fall in latest week as oil exports rose NEW YORK – Crude million barrels, million-barrel drop, as million bpd a week earlier, “It was definitely were down 4 cents a barrel inventories fell by 6.1 exceeding analysts’ crude oil exports rose. according to the data for supportive, also a big at $47.96 a barrel by 11:15 million barrels in the expectations in a Exports rose to 3.6 the week ended December rebound and surge again a.m. EST latest week to 493.5 Reuters poll for a 2.6 million bpd from 3.1 25. in crude oil exports, so Distillate stockpiles, that’s what really helped which include diesel and the number,” said John heating oil, rose by 3.1 Kilduff, a partner at Again million barrels in the Capital Management in week to 152.03 million New York. “The decline in barrels, versus diesel fuel demand, expectations for a 0.5 distillate fuel demand, million-barrel rise, the signals the end of all of us EIA data showed. seeing the Amazon trucks US gasoline stocks fell every five minutes on your by 1.2 million barrels in street, so I think we’re the week to 236.56 million going to see that decline barrels, the EIA said, in the post-holiday compared with analysts’ period.” expectations in a Reuters Despite the supportive poll for a 1.7 million-barrel report, crude markets rise. Crude stocks at the seized on the large Cushing, Oklahoma, distillate build, and delivery hub rose by 27 turned lower after the 000 barrels in the last data. US crude futures week, the EIA said.

Equipment used to process carbon dioxide, crude oil and water is seen at an Occidental Petroleum Corp enhanced oil recovery project in Hobbs, New Mexico, US on May 3, 2017. Analysis-Intel has BANK RATES Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of few good options business yesterday by the Central Bank of Barbados. Valid for December 31, 2020 as investor Notes: Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 demands break-up Canadian Dollar 1.54640 1.59214 East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 SAN FRANCISCO – Semiconductor Euro 2.40702 2.50838 Activist investor Daniel Manufacturing Co. Pound Sterling 2.66607 2.77833 Loeb wants Intel Corp to However, Intel has United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 consider splitting its huge failed to stay at the Demand/Sight: chip manufacturing cutting edge of Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 operations from its chip manufacturing Canadian Dollar 1.55521 1.59074 design and development technology in recent East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 business, but analysts say years, allowing rivals Euro 2.44234 2.49281 doing so could weaken including Nvidia and Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 both businesses unless Advanced Micro Devices Pound Sterling 2.70519 2.76109 the firm can form a joint Inc – both of whom United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 venture. outsource chipmaking – Telegraphic Transfer For more than 50 years, to gain share in key Currency Buying Selling Intel has operated on the markets such as PCs and Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 idea that both designing data center chips. Canadian Dollar 1.55815 1.59074 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 and manufacturing its Intel also famously Euro 2.44694 2.49281 own semiconductors missed the mobile Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 produce the best results. revolution, opening the Pound Sterling 2.71028 2.76109 It has stuck to that even door for chips based on United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 as most of the global designs from Arm Ltd to industry has moved to a dominate the smartphone INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL model where US market. And now, CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE companies like Nvidia customers such as Apple RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS Corp and Qualcomm Inc Inc and Amazon.com Inc N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. design chips that are then have started designing BDS$ Guyana Dollar 0.00945 built by specialised chip their own chips, to be Jamaica Dollar 0.01412 manufacturers in Asia, manufactured by TSMC T&T Dollar 0.29863 led by Taiwan or other foundries. 10 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate Argentina abortion: Senate approves legalisation in historic decision ARGENTINA’S The bill had been Large crowds of movement that has been at in their countries and allow “since the restoration of Congress has legalised approved by the Chamber campaigners both for and the forefront of this change. broader reproductive rights democracy [in 1983] more abortions up to the 14th of Deputies earlier this against abortion had A grassroots feminist in a region known for tough than 3,000 have died". week of pregnancy, a month. gathered outside Congress movement that has grown restrictions on abortion. Alongside the ground-breaking move The Catholic Church, in the capital Buenos Aires, in influence in the past few Activists have legalisation of abortion, for a region that has which remains highly following the debate on years, its campaigning campaigned for a change Senators also voted in some of the world’s most influential in Latin huge screens. prevailed, overturning a in the law for years. The favour of a bill dubbed the restrictive termination America, had opposed the When the vote finally law that had been in place passing came two years “1,000-Day Plan", which laws. move, calling on senators happened in the early since 1921. after senators narrowly will provide better Senators voted in favour to reject the bill supported hours of Wednesday, there What has happened in voted against legalising healthcare for pregnant of the bill after a marathon by centre-left President was jubilation in the pro- Argentina has been closely abortion. women and mothers of session with 38 in favour, Alberto Fernández. choice camp. watched across the region. President Fernández had young children. 29 against and one Pro-choice activists hope While Argentina’s With Argentina now made reintroducing it one After the vote, President abstention. the passing of the law in powerful Catholic Church, legalising abortion up to 14 of his campaign promises. Fernández tweeted:“Today, Until now, abortions Argentina - one of the and its growing evangelical weeks, activists in major “I’m Catholic but I have to we’re a better society,which were only permitted in largest and most community, put up strong neighbours like Chile and legislate for everyone,” he widens women’s rights cases of rape or when the influential countries in the opposition against this bill, Brazil will no doubt use argued. and guarantees public mother’s health was at region - will inspire other it was Argentina’s mighty this precedent to help their The president also said health.” risk. countries to follow suit. “green wave” women’s cause in rewriting the law providing free and legal Vilma Ibarra, who abortions up to the 14th drafted the law, was week of pregnancy was a overcome with emotion as matter of public health as she spoke to reporters after “every year around 38,000 it passed.“Never again will women” are taken to there be a woman killed in hospital due to clandestine a clandestine abortion,” she terminations and that said, crying. The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 11 St Vincent residents Eastern C’bean urged to ‘hope for issues rare the best’ amid volcano threat alerts for KINGSTOWN, St Gonsalves said that the Vincent – Prime Minister National Emergency rumbling Dr Ralph Gonsalves has Management Organi- called on residents to sation had been briefing hope for the best even as him on the activities of his government plans for the volcano for several volcanoes the worst, as the La weeks and months and VOLCANOES that have mountain. It was the first Soufriere volcano began the government has been been quiet for decades alert of its kind issued an effusive eruption – in discussion with the are rumbling to life in since the volcano where magma oozes from Seismic Research Centre the eastern Caribbean, last erupted in 1932, the volcano. at the University of the prompting officials to Fabrice Fontaine, “All the residents in the West Indies. issue alerts in with Martinique’s communities between He urged residents not Martinique and St. Volcanological and Fancy to Georgetown and to “tempt fate”, saying, Vincent and the Seismological Observatory, from North Leeward “Nobody should be going Grenadines as told The Associated Press. areas, from Belle Isle up there and if you are scientists rush in to While the eastern upwards, you have to be up there, you have to study activity they say Caribbean is one long on alert, especially,” come out cause the Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves hasn’t been observed in chain of active and extinct Gonsalves told a media place there will be very years. volcanoes, volcanologist briefing here late hot.” “And please, I am is why you can’t go and The most recent Erik Klemetti, at Denison Tuesday. There is widespread asking you to refrain tempt fate.” warning was issued late University in Ohio, said “At relatively short illegal cultivation of from visiting the volcano The prime minister Tuesday for La Soufriere the activity at Mt. Pelee notice, you may get – marijuana on the slope of at this time due to the said that, among other volcano in St. Vincent and and La Soufriere are not MAY – an order to the volcano, and several heat itself, but very much things, the National the Grenadines, a chain of related. evacuate if, in fact, we of those farmers live on so the strong sulphur can Emergency Management islands home to more than “It’s not like one volcano have the scientific their farms. also affect your Council, at its meeting on 100,000 people. Officials starts erupting that others information that an Gonsalves said that all respiratory system. And, Tuesday, would follow reported tremors, strong will,” he said. “It falls into explosive eruption will be recreational visits to the of course, if you are up through elements of the gas emissions, formation the category of occurring or at least the volcano are to be there, you don’t want to national emergency plan of a new volcanic dome and coincidence.” likelihood of it,” the suspended with be there if you have an as it relates specifically changes to its crater lake. He said the activity is prime minister said. immediate effect. explosive eruption. That to the volcano. The Caribbean Disaster evidence that magma is Emergency Management lurking underground and Agency said that scientists percolating toward the observed an “effusive surface, although he added eruption within the crater, that scientists still don’t with visible gas and have a very good steam” on Tuesday. understanding of what The government warned controls how quickly that those living near the happens. volcano to prepare to “The answers are not evacuate if needed, entirely satisfying,” he declaring an orange alert said.“It’s science that’s still that means eruptions being researched.” could occur with less than Klemetti said the most 24 hours’ notice. active volcano in recent La Soufriere, located years in the eastern near the northern tip of the Caribbean has been main island of St.Vincent, Soufriere Hills in last erupted in 1979, and a Montserrat, which has previous eruption in 1902 erupted continuously since killed some 1,600 people. 1995, destroying the That occurred shortly capital of Plymouth and before Martinique’s Mt. killing at least 19 people Pelee erupted and in 1997. destroyed the town of Seventeen of the eastern Saint-Pierre, killing more Caribbean’s 19 live than 30,000 people. volcanoes are located on 11 Mt. Pelee too is now islands, with the active once again. In early remaining two are December, officials in the underwater near the French Caribbean island of Grenada, territory issued a yellow including one called Kick alert due to seismic ‘Em Jenny that has been The new dome in the crater of La Soufriere. activity under the active in recent years. Vessel with Haitian nationals runs aground; 51 arrested, detained NASSAU, Bahamas – and seven females was Bluff. public that it is “committed country”. follows another on the Members of the Royal held on Monday. So far, all migrants have to carrying out the “We further wish to weekend in which 45 Bahamas Police Force have Immigration officials have received medical attention mandates of our agency to remind members of the Haitians were also arrested and detained 51 since been dispatched to from local Ministry of combat illegal migration by public that it is a criminal arrested by the police on Haitian nationals after Andros for investigation Health personnel and are establishing effective offence punishable by law Long Island. their vessel landed at Mars and further processing of reported well. border control to harbour illegal migrants They also received Bay on the island of Andros the migrants who are In a statement, the management to ensure in the Commonwealth of medical attention from earlier this week. presently being held at the Department of compliance with the The Bahamas.” local Ministry of Health The group of 44 males Government Complex,The Immigration reminded the Statute Laws of our This latest incident personnel. 12 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Canada to require negative test for people entering country TORONTO – The will be implemented in the The decision came a day travel because of the pan- cial on Dec. 13 from Phillips also travelled to Canadian government next few days. after the premier of demic. Toronto to Antigua and Switzerland in August. said yesterday that pas- Canada already re- Canada’s largest province Ontario Premier Doug then on to St. Barts, a pop- Ontario began a sengers must have a quires those entering the said he had ordered his fi- Ford said it was “com- ular vacation spot for the provincewide lockdown on negative COVID-19 test country to self-isolate for nance minister to end a pletely unacceptable” that rich and famous over the Dec. 26 and Ford has been taken within three days 14 days and it has already Caribbean vacation, say- Finance Minister Rod Christmas holidays. blaming travellers for before they arrive in the banned all flights from the ing he is “extremely dis- Phillips went to the The finance minister’s bringing the new coron- country. United Kingdom because appointed” the official French island of St. Barts Twitter account had sug- avirus to the province. Intergovernmental of the new variant of went abroad at a time the for the holidays. A source gested that he was in Canada’s national gov- Affairs Minister Dominic COVID-19 spreading government is urging peo- familiar with his travel Ontario while he has been ernment and the Ontario LeBlanc said the measure there. ple to avoid nonessential said Phillips flew commer- in St. Barts. government have both re- peatedly asked Canadians not to travel abroad dur- ing the pandemic. The Ford government already was being criti- cised for halting vaccina- tion operations over the holidays and for delaying a provincewide lockdown until the day after Christmas. Ontario set a new daily record for cases yesterday with 2 923, with just over one-third of them in the country’s largest city of Toronto. Indian state bans Islamic schools, drawing criticism GUWAHATI, India – An People run following an explosion at the airport in Aden, Yemen, shortly after a plane carrying the newly formed Cabinet landed Indian state ruled by yesterday. No one on board the government plane was hurt but initial reports said several people at the airport were killed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party yesterday passed a law abolishing all Islamic schools, saying they Attack at Aden airport as provided sub-standard education. Opposition politicians criticised the move and Yemen government arrives said it reflected the gov- ernment’s anti-Muslim ADEN – At least 22 peo- Yemen, Mohammad Said There was no immediate southern-based, Saudi- were missing, ICRC attitude in the Hindu-ma- ple were killed and al-Jaber, had been taken reaction from the Houthis, backed alliance fighting Yemen said on Twitter. jority country. dozens wounded in an to safety, residents and who denied responsibility the Houthis who control The southern port city More than 700 of the attack on Aden airport local media said. for the airport attack. the north, including the of Aden has been mired schools, known as yesterday, moments In the airport attack, “We and the members of capital Sanaa. in violence because of a madrasas, in northeast- after a plane landed loud blasts and gunfire the government are in the rift between the sepa- ern Assam will be shut by carrying a newly were heard shortly after temporary capital of Aden ICRC staff member ratists and Hadi’s govern- April, the state’s educa- formed Saudi-backed the plane arrived from and everyone is fine,” killed ment, based there after tion minister Himanta cabinet for govern- Riyadh, witnesses said. A Maeen tweeted from TV footage from Saudi- being driven from the cap- Biswa Sarma told the ment-held parts of local security source said Maasheq palace. “The owned Al Arabiya channel ital by the Houthis in local assembly. Yemen. three mortar shells had cowardly terrorist act that showed dozens of people 2014. “We need more doctors, Prime Minister Maeen landed on the airport’s targeted Aden airport is leaving the airplane when The separatist Southern police officers, bureau- Abdulmalik said all mem- hall. part of the war that is a first blast hit the air- Transitional Council crats, and teachers, from bers of the cabinet were The cabinet gave the being waged against the port’s hall. Heavy gunfire (STC), which seeks inde- the minority Muslim com- “fine”. But the attack un- death figure on Twitter, Yemeni state and its great from armoured vehicles pendence for south munity rather than derlined the difficulties citing the interior minis- people.” followed, with plumes of Yemen, declared self-rule Imams for mosques,” said facing a government in- ter, and said 50 people Jaber tweeted: “Peace, white and black smoke in Aden in April, trigger- Sarma, a rising star in tended by Saudi Arabia to were wounded. Medecins security and stability will rising from the scene. ing clashes and complicat- Modi’s Bharatiya Janata unite two of its allies in Sans Frontieres aid group prevail thanks to Yemenis’ Other video footage ing United Nations efforts Party (BJP). the war against the Iran- had earlier said 17 people strong will and their brave showed damage to the ter- to forge a permanent The government would aligned Houthi move- had been treated for government.” minal’s concrete walls and ceasefire in the overall convert them to regular ment. wounds at its hospital in The new cabinet unites smashed glass. conflict. schools as education pro- Hours after the attack, a Aden. the government of Presi- Government officials The Saudi-led coalition vided in the madrasas second explosion was There was no immedi- dent Abd-Rabbu Mansour were among the casualties announced the new could not prepare anyone heard around Aden’s ate claim of responsibility. Hadi with southern sepa- in the airport attack, power-sharing cabinet for “the temporal world Maasheq presidential The Saudi-led coalition ratists, intended to fulfil a sources said. One this month after more and its earthly concerns”, palace where the cabinet said it had downed an ex- Saudi aim of ending a feud International Committee than a year of intense he said. members including plosive-laden Houthi among Riyadh’s allies. of the Red Cross staff Saudi mediation between Opposition politicians Maeen as well as the drone that was targeting The two groups are the member was killed in the the government and the said the move was an at- Saudi ambassador to the presidential palace. main Yemeni factions in a airport attack and two separatists. tack on Muslims. The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 13

Swiss police Syrian state media says 28 killed in bus ambush AMMAN – Twenty-eight people were are based, near the ancient city of army’s elite Fourth Brigade, which has a killed in an attack on a bus along a main Palmyra. strong presence in the rich oil-producing probe 12 Brits highway in Syria’s Deir al-Zor province A senior military defector in the area province since Islamic State fighters that borders Iraq, Syrian state media said the vehicle carried soldiers and pro- were ousted at the end of 2017. said yesterday,an incident that residents government militias who had finished Deir al-Zor residents and intelligence suspected and defectors say was an ambush on an their leave and were on their way back sources say there has been a rise in re- army vehicle. to their base in the desolate, sparsely cent months of ambushes and hit-and- There were no more details of the in- populated area. run attacks by remnants of Islamic State of fleeing cident in an area where mostly Syrian Another source said at least thirty sol- militants who hid in caves in the mainly army and Iranian-backed militias diers were killed, mostly from the Syrian desert region. ski resort quarantine ZURICH – Swiss police said yesterday they are investigating 12 cases in which British tourists ignored quarantine or- ders aimed at containing new COVID- 19 virus variants after hundreds of fellow nationals are believed to have fled the country. On Dec. 21, the government ordered people who arrived from Britain and South Africa since Dec. 14 into a 10-day quarantine, while temporarily halting flights, leading to some being stranded in resorts including Verbier, a popular destination for British skiers. They were supposed to stay indoors, away from other people. The canton of Valais, where Verbier is located, sent 220 police to enforce re- strictions, including operations in which they checked up on selected quaran- tined tourists. “Of the 150 people who were checked at the holiday destinations, 138 guests consistently adhered to the quarantine,” Valais police said. “Investigations are currently under Aerial footage shows the scale of the landslide. way in 12 cases where the tourists had already left the canton.” Far more than a dozen left, however. Hundreds of Britons have fled quaran- Houses buried as landslide tine in Verbier, with the health minis- ter attributing the exodus to an “im- possible situation”. At least seven people in Switzerland have been detected with the mutant hits Norwegian village virus, five with the British version and two with a version detected in South OSLO – Ten people were injured, one houses collapsed into the crater yesterday emergency responders towards the Africa. of them critically, and 15 people re- afternoon, broadcaster NRK reported. debris of collapsed houses. Police Two variants were first identified in mained unaccounted for after a “It is a catastrophe,” Prime Minister said rescue operations would continue Britain and South Africa. landslide in southern Norway swept Erna Solberg told reporters after visiting through into today. The punishment British tourists, away more than a dozen buildings in the site. Masses of earth are still moving some of whom own Swiss vacation prop- the early hours of Wednesday, police “There could be people trapped... but at in what has been one of the largest erty, could face in Valais is unclear, said. the same time we can’t be sure because clay slides in recent Norwegian history, though laws governing “dangerous dis- The landslide struck a residential area it is the New Year’s holiday,which means Toril Hofshagen, the regional head eases” could mean quarantine violators in the municipality of Gjerdrum, about 30 people could be elsewhere,” she said, of the Norwegian Water Resources and are slapped with fines of up to 10,000 km (19 miles) north of the capital Oslo. adding that rescue operations could take Energy Directorate, told a news confer- Swiss francs ($11,330). Police said some 700 people had been a long time. ence. Switzerland is sticking to a “lockdown evacuated from the area. “The situation is still so unstable that Southern Norway has seen large light,” shutting restaurants but Photos of the site showed a large crater it is impossible to do any (rescue) effort amounts of precipitation in recent days, leaving ski areas open as it balances with destroyed buildings at the bottom of other than from helicopters.” which may have caused the clay soil health considerations with the it. Other buildings hung on the edges of Helicopters continued to hover over prevalent in the area to shift, broadcaster economy. the crater,TV footage showed. Two more the area as night fell, at times lowering NRK said.

Mix of sunshine and clouds with a few brief isolated light showers.

High: 5:13 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. New York: 04°C Yesterday: 0.4 mm Miami: 24°C Low: 10:06 a.m. For the month: 78.4 mm Max: 29.7°C Boston: 02°C and 11:14 p.m. For the year: 1366.8 mm Min: 23.3°C Toronto: 05°C Montreal: -02°C London: 01°C 6:21 a.m. 5:43 p.m.

14 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Iran plane crash victims’ families to get $150 000 IRAN is to give $150,000 shot down the UIA flight “unin- eral Qasem Soleimani by a US to international practice, and de- Earlier this month an inde- (£110,000) to the families of tentionally”. drone strike in Baghdad. manded those behind the attack pendent Canadian report each of the 176 people who Tehran called it a “disastrous In a statement, Iran’s govern- face prosecution. questioned Iran’s investigation died when its Revolutionary mistake” by the Revolutionary ment said it would pay the com- “The Ukrainian side expects into the incident. Guards shot down a passen- Guards Corps. pensation “as soon as possible”. from Iran a draft technical Many crucial details had not ger jet last January. The victims included 82 Yesterday Tehran also said it report on the circumstances of been disclosed, such as the Ukraine has called for negoti- Iranians, 63 Canadians, 11 had sent its final report on the the aircraft shooting down,” names of those determined to ations over the compensation Ukrainians including nine crew crash to the countries which ministry spokesman Oleh be responsible for carrying out and for those behind the attack members, four Afghans, four had been investigating it – Nikolenko said. the attack, and questions such to face justice. Britons and three Germans. Ukraine, the US, France, “This situation is especially as why Iranian airspace had not The Ukraine International Iran’s air defences had been Canada, Sweden, the UK and unacceptable, since we are talk- been closed on the night of 8 Airlines Boeing 737 was struck on high alert at the time. Hours Germany. ing about the fate of innocent January had not been an- by two missiles shortly after earlier, the country had fired But Ukraine’s foreign min- people,” he said, adding that swered, the report, written by taking off from Tehran. ballistic missiles at two US istry said compensation Ukraine would continue to try to the Canadian government’s After initially denying respon- bases in Iraq in retaliation for amounts should be arrived at ensure that those responsible special counsel on the incident, sibility, Iran admitted it had the killing of top Iranian gen- through negotiations according faced justice. said. Two officers China sentences linked to HK activists to jail time for Breonna border crossing

Taylor’s death SHENZHEN – A Chinese court sentenced ten Hong Kong ac- could be fired tivists to between seven months and three years in jail yesterday TWO US police officers linked for illegally crossing the border, to a notorious raid in which in a case that has drawn interna- young black medic Breonna tional attention and concern over Taylor was fatally shot could the defendants’ treatment. soon be dismissed from their po- The group had all faced sitions, US media report. charges in Hong Kong over anti- The incident in March government protests in the prompted global outrage as pro- Chinese-ruled city and they have testers decried another killing been held virtually incommuni- of a black American by police. cado in a mainland prison since One of the officers likely to be their boat was intercepted on dismissed obtained the search Aug. 23 after leaving Hong Kong, warrant for Ms Taylor’s home in allegedly en route to the demo- Kentucky. cratic island of Taiwan. The other fired the shot that Breonna Taylor’s killing sparked protests over racial injustice globally. The court found eight of the killed her, lawyers say. defendants guilty of the illegal Ms Taylor,26, died when police before breaking down the door global rallying cry as people de- during the narcotics raid. crossing and sentenced them to raided her home in connection to with a battering ram. manded a thorough investiga- In September a grand jury seven months in jail and a a drug case. Ms Taylor’s Ms Taylor’s boyfriend said po- tion into her death. ruled that the three officers 10,000 yuan ($1,533) fine. boyfriend fired at the officers lice did not make their presence Of the police officers present at should not face homicide Tang Kai-Yin, 31, and Quinn who he said he believed were at- known, and he fired out of self- the raid, one has been sacked so charges. One officer, Jonathan Moon, 33, were found guilty of or- tackers breaking into their defence. Three officers returned far. Brett Hankison has pleaded Mattingly, who shot Ms Taylor’s ganising an illegal border cross- home. fire with 32 shots, six of which not guilty to charges of wanton boyfriend in the leg, later said ing and sentenced to three years Police say they knocked on the hit Ms Taylor. endangerment for firing three the case had “nothing do with and two years,respectively,with door to announce their presence Ms Taylor’s name became a shots into adjoining apartments race”. fines of 20,000 and 15,000 yuan. Colorado Guardsman has first reported US case of virus variant DENVER – The first person in work at the Good Samaritan Denver, while the person with negative COVID-19 test. samples to discover variants the US known to be infected Society nursing home in the the suspected case is isolating at The variant is probably still than other developed nations, with a new and apparently small town of Simla, in a mostly a Colorado hotel, Herlihy said. rare in the US, but the Colorado so the finding in Colorado prob- more contagious variant of the rural area about 90 miles out- A call to the nursing home patient’s lack of travel history ably means it is already spread- coronavirus was identified yes- side Denver, said Dr. Rachel was not immediately returned. means it is spreading, perhaps ing in other parts of the country terday as a Colorado National Herlihy, state epidemiologist. The alarming new version seeded by visitors from Britain and it is too late for travel bans. Guardsman who had been sent They were among six Guard was first identified in Britain, in November or December, said “We’re behind in finding it. to help out at a nursing home members sent to the home. where infections are soaring and scientist Trevor Bedford, who Colorado is likely one of many struggling with an outbreak. A state laboratory began look- hospitalisations have climbed to studies the spread of COVID-19 places it’s landed here,” Topol And health officials said a sec- ing for signs of the variant after the highest levels on record. It at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer said.“It’s all over the place. How ond Guard member may have its spread was announced in has also been found in several Research Centre in Seattle. can you ban travel from every- it, too. England earlier this month, other countries. “Now I’m worried there will where?” The cases have triggered a Herlihy said. Staff and residents Scientists in Britain have be another spring wave due to Colorado public health offi- host of questions about how the at the nursing home who tested found no evidence that it is more the variant,” Bedford said.“It’s a cials are conducting contact mutant version circulating in positive for the coronavirus are lethal or causes more severe ill- race with the vaccine, but now tracing to determine its spread, England arrived in the US and having their samples screened ness, and they believe the vac- the virus has just gotten a little and Gov. Jared Polis said infec- whether it is too late to stop it for the variant, and so far no cines now being dispensed will bit faster.” tions are being monitored now,with top experts saying it is evidence of it has been found, be effective against it. “The virus is becoming more closely. probably already spreading else- she said. Nevertheless, the discovery fit and we’re like a deer in the British Prime Minister Boris where in the country. The dis- The confirmed case is in a overseas led the US Centres for headlights,” warned Dr. Eric Johnson reported the weekend covery has also added urgency Colorado man in his 20s who Disease Control and Prevention Topol, head of Scripps Research before Christmas that the to the nation’s vaccination drive. hadn’t been travelling, officials to issue rules on Christmas Day Translational Institute, variant was moving rapidly The two Guard members had said. He has mild symptoms and requiring travellers arriving He noted that the US does far through London and southeast been dispatched on Dec. 23 to is isolating at his home near from Britain to show proof of a less genetic sequencing of virus England. The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 15

Uganda opposition presidential candidate arrested Putin targets US social

NAIROBI – Uganda oppo- his whole campaign team. media, secret agent leaks sition presidential candi- They (police) put them in date Robert Kyagulanyi, police trucks and started and protests with new laws popularly known as Bobi driving but we don’t know Wine, and his campaign where they are taking MOSCOW – President “discriminate” against its team were arrested in them.” Vladimir Putin signed an media, part of a campaign Kalangala in the country’s Police dismissed reports array of laws yesterday under Putin to increase central region yesterday, of the arrests, and said handing Russia new Russia’s internet “sover- he said in a post on they had CCTV footage of powers to restrict US eignty” that has fuelled Twitter. his supporters deflating social media giants, fears of creeping China- The arrests spurred tyres of police motor vehi- label individuals “foreign style controls. protests at a field in cles, inciting violence and agents”, and to crack down Twitter currently labels Kalangala Island in Lake obstructing officers on on the disclosure of its se- some Russian media Victoria where a helicop- duty. curity officers’ personal “state-affiliated media”, a ter was parked and which “The candidate was re- data. move decried by Moscow. Wine’s supporters said strained for continuously The laws, which also in- The law’s backers cited they believed would be holding massive rallies troduce new restrictions complaints made about used to fly him back to the amidst the increased for protests, cap a year of prejudice shown by capital Kampala. threats of coronavirus, in constitutional reforms al- Facebook, Twitter and Police fired tear gas to total disregard of the lowing Putin, 68, to stand YouTube. disperse the crowd who Electoral commission and for two more six-year A second law introduces were protesting, a witness, Ministry of Health guide- terms in the Kremlin in- hefty fines of up to 20% of who did not want to give lines,” police said on their stead of stepping down in their previous year’s his name for security rea- Facebook page. 2024 as he had been Russia-based turnover for sons, told Reuters. “He’s being transferred legally required to do. sites that repeatedly fail No further details of the to his home in Magere, Other reforms such as to remove banned content, arrests were immediately Kampala.” one granting former pres- something that YouTube available. Reuters photographs idents lifelong immunity and Facebook have often Wine has emerged as from the scene showed from prosecution have failed to do according to the strongest challenger Wine being escorted by at kept analysts guessing Russian lawmakers. to President Yoweri least 10 police officers, about his plans as A third law prohibits the Museveni, 76, in the pres- some armed with rifles. Uganda opposition presidential candidate Robert Moscow’s ties with the disclosure of the personal idential election on Jan. Wine was wearing a hel- Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine. West have come under data of Russian security 14. met and bulletproof vest, new strain over the poi- officials, records that are Joel Senyonyi, spokes- which he has said he uses people died after protests Police at the time said soning of Kremlin critic sometimes leaked online man for Wine’s National to prevent injuries when- erupted following Wine’s they had arrested nearly Alexei Navalny. and have been used by in- Unity Platform party, ever police disperse his brief detention over al- 600 people and accused One of yesterday’s laws vestigative journalists to said: “Yes police has ar- meetings. leged violation of social- protesters of rioting and enables Russia to block or track clandestine opera- rested him together with In November,at least 54 distancing measures. looting. restrict access to sites that tions. Migrants stranded in Bosnia after relocation fails

BIHAC, Bosnia – grant crisis,” Kljajic told Hundreds of migrants Klix.ba. from Africa, Asia and Earlier, residents of the Middle East were Bradina had rallied to left stranded in the protest against the possi- open air yesterday ble relocation of the mi- when an attempt to re- grants to their town. locate them to another Camp Lipa, which was site in Bosnia after fire opened last spring as a wrecked their tempo- temporary shelter for the rary camp failed, po- summer months, housed lice and migrants said. about 1,200 people and Fire destroyed Camp was due to be shut on Lipa, near the town of Wednesday for winter re- Bihac in western Bosnia, furbishing. last week. The migrants The central govern- were supposed to be ment had wanted them to transferred to the town of temporarily return to the Bradina, about 320 km Bira camp in Bihac,25 away in central Bosnia. km away,which was shut They were initially put down in October. But local onto buses and waited in authorities disagreed, cold winter weather for saying that other parts of more than a day to be Bosnia should also share taken to another place. the burden of the migrant However, there was no crisis. final agreement on where The European Union, they should go. which had supported “The buses are leaving Migrants walk towards the forest yesterday after camp ‘Lipa’ was closed, in Bihac. Bosnia with 60 million the Lipa area and the mi- euros to manage the crisis grants have been left be- burned camp. Bundled up what to do and how to have been trying unsuc- ing that the migrants and pledged 25 million hind,” Nermin Kljajic, the in hats, scarves and win- make a life there,”a cessfully to cross the bor- would be moved to a mil- euros more, has repeat- interior ministry chief in ter jackets to guard young migrant from der with Croatia and itary barracks in edly asked the authorities Unsko-Sanska county, against the cold, they car- Afghanistan told Reuters. carry on to wealthier Bradina. But Finance to find an alternative to said on the Klix.ba. news ried their few possessions The lack of an agree- countries of the European Minister Vjekoslav the unsuitable Camp site with them in bags, a ment among local author- Union. Bevanda said there had Lipa, warning of an un- Migrants got out of the Reuters journalist at the ities in Bosnia about On Tuesday, local not been any agreement. folding humanitarian cri- busses and walked scene said. where the migrants media had quoted “I think that each sis. About 10,000 mi- through muddy terrain “They commanded us to should go has compli- Bosnian security minis- county should carry part grants are stuck in and woods back to the go to Lipa. We don’t know cated their lives. They ter Selmo Cikoti, as say- of the burden of the mi- Bosnia. 16 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

London post-punk rock band Shame have European festival dates booked in for next summer. Brexit: UK government music touring proposals were ‘rejected by the EU’ THE government says it tried travel around Europe for artists could be subject to additional to secure better conditions and crews. visa costs and paperwork. for UK touring musicians The petition, which has now Music bosses have said that during the Brexit amassed more than 200,000 entire tours could now be at risk, negotiations, but its signatures, will be debated in as a result. proposals were rejected by parliament, the government Whereas previously UK the EU. confirmed. nationals were able to move The comments come in From 1 January, free around the EU freely, from this response to a petition – signed by movement of people between the Friday they will need a visa for stars like Ronan Keating, KT UK and the EU will end. Touring stays of longer than 90 days in a Tunstall, Gary Kemp and Tim musicians and their technical 180-day period, and there will be Burgess – calling for visa-free crews will face new rules, and restrictions on their activities. Bridge The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 17 SPORTSSPORTS Ronaldo plans Adams says Bangladesh tour ‘many years’ could spawn ‘fruitful careers’ playing as 36th DIRECTOR of Cricket Jimmy Two others, white ball left-arm early in [their careers in] subcontinent birthday looms Adams believes next month’s tour spinning all-rounder, Fabien Allen and conditions. APPROACHING his 36th birthday in of Bangladesh could signal the start Test wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich, “And I look at a group of players that February, Cristiano Ronaldo has no of “long and fruitful careers” for opted out of the tour for “personal will not have the experience of some of intention of slowing down. some members of the squad, once reasons”. those who have pulled out but I don’t “I still feel good, sharp and in a good they grabbed the opportunities “The circumstances with players think that they’re short on talent, and I moment in my life,” the Juventus and presented in the absence of choosing not to go is something I view as have every confidence that the Portugal star said in a video interview.“I seasoned players. an opportunity,” Adams told an online management team that we have put hope to play many,many years more, but Several new players were on Tuesday media conference following the around them, in Phil Simmons and his you never know.” included for their first international announcement of the Test and ODI support staff, that we have every chance The forward still has another full tour after 10 first-choice members of the squads for Bangladesh. of seeing not only good performances season on his contract at Juventus, Test and One-Day International sides “The subcontinent has individual but probably the start of some very long expiring in 2022 when retirement won’t declined selection for the January 20 to challenges that over the years a lot of and fruitful careers. be considered. February 15 series due to “COVID-19 West Indies players have almost made “This is the approach that I personally “If you feel motivated, it doesn’t matter. related concerns or personal fears”. a name for themselves in touring pretty take when I look at a tour like this.” Cristiano now is good,” he said. It’s tougher than expected for Juventus this season, with the nine-time defending Serie A champions unusually low in sixth place – 10 points behind leader AC Milan – albeit with 25 games remaining. “My eyes see the future very, very bright,” Ronaldo said.“So, I’m happy with that.” Happy too that he has won titles with Lisbon club Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. Winning the European Championship with Portugal in 2016 leaves the World Cup as the only major prize to elude him. Premier League says no plans to pause season as COVID rates soar LONDON – The Premier League is not discussing a possible pause to the season because of surging COVID-19 infections in England, it said yesterday. Fulham’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur was called off hours before kickoff yesterday with the club reporting several positive coronavirus tests, and an outbreak at Manchester City caused their game at Everton on Monday to be called off. Several managers have suggested a pause would take the pressure off clubs, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah in action. but the Premier League says it has no plans to do so. “The Premier League has not discussed pausing the season,” it said in a statement. Liverpool frustrated by Newcastle in 0-0 draw “The League continues to have confidence NEWCASTLE, England – An off-key and Newcastle’s valiant rearguard kept ond-bottom West Bromwich Albion on in its COVID-19 protocols to enable Liverpool were frustrated for a second them at bay. Sunday and drew with struggling Fulham fixtures to be played as scheduled, and successive game by struggling opponents Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and earlier this month. these protocols continue to have the full as they were held to a 0-0 Premier League Roberto Firmino were all guilty of poor fin- Klopp’s team lead the table going into backing of Government. draw at Newcastle United yesterday. ishing for the champions while Newcastle the New Year with 33 points from 16 “With the health of players and staff the Juergen Klopp’s side had the chance to goalkeeper Karl Darlow produced a cou- games, three points ahead of second- priority,the League is also fully supportive open up a five-point lead at the top of the ple of fine saves. placed Manchester United who have a of how clubs are implementing the table, but a combination of wastefulness Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw by sec- match in hand. protocols and rules.” Suarez header keeps Atletico top as Simeone celebrates 500th game in charge MADRID – A Luis Suarez header gave from Yannick Carrasco to put Atletico a dealt a double setback of Kieran Trippier ance of the season, they always looked in Atletico Madrid a 1-0 home win over ahead in the 20th minute and they ground being suspended for 10 weeks for a betting control. Getafe yesterday in coach Diego Simeone’s out the win to preserve their remarkable infraction and Diego Costa leaving the Atletico captain Koke admitted his side 500th game in charge, keeping them top record of never conceding a goal to Getafe club after rescinding his contract. had not been at their best but hailed their of La Liga and ending the year with an un- since Simeone became coach nine years The absences did not seem to affect performances throughout the year, in beaten home record. ago. them, however, and even though this was particular since emerging from the three- The Uruguayan glanced in a lofted pass Atletico went into the match after being far from their most impressive perform- month coronavirus stoppage.

18 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Bucks set NBA record for 3’s, roll past Heat 144-97 MIAMI – On Sunday, the Milwaukee But his brother, Thanasis playoffs, when the Heat eliminated the Bucks endured their worst 3-point effort Antetokounmpo – who was 0 for 11 from Bucks in five games. in just over a year. 3-point range in his career entering the “It looked like they have been thinking On Tuesday, they set the NBA record night – got into the act and made one about this game for 80 days,” Heat coach for 3?s in a game. from deep. Erik Spoelstra said. Go figure. “I knew we were shooting well,” said Milwaukee led 46-26 after one quarter, The Bucks made a record 29 3-pointers Bucks center Brook Lopez, who made 83-51 at the half. in their 144-97 romp past the reigning three 3’s.“I didn’t know we were anything Tyler Herro scored 23 points for the Eastern Conference champion Miami close to that.” Heat. Miami’s Jimmy Butler missed the Heat on Tuesday night. They shot 29 for The record-breaker was made by Sam game with a sprained right ankle. 51 from deep, two nights after going 7 for Merrill, who got the 28th 3-pointer with It was the biggest road win in Bucks 38 in a loss to New York. 6:07 remaining, giving the Bucks a 131- history, topping the 39-point margin at “Some nights, the basketball gods are 86 lead. New York on April 10, 1987.The 47-point with you a little bit,” Bucks coach Mike The previous record for 3’s in a game margin matched the second-worst loss in Budenholzer said. “It’s probably one of was 27, set by the Houston Rockets Heat history; they lost 138-91 to Pat Riley those nights.” against the Phoenix Suns on April 7, and the Los Angeles Lakers in the eighth Milwaukee used 13 players and 12 2019. Milwaukee’s previous most was 22, game of Miami’s first season. made at least one 3-pointer – the only against Sacramento on Nov.4, 2018. The exception being two-time reigning MVP most previously allowed in a game by Streak ends Giannis Antetokounmpo. Khris Miami was 24, on Feb. 5 against the Los Giannis Antetokounmpo’s streak of 108 Middleton had four 3’s and scored 25 Angeles Clippers. consecutive regular-season games – and points, Jrue Holiday made six 3’s in his Milwaukee was up 10-0 after 78 132 overall – with at least 10 points Neil Wagner, has played the last 24-point night and Donte DiVincenzo was seconds, 21-3 after about four minutes, ended. It was the first time since Feb. 13, three days with two broken toes. 5-for-6 from deep to finish with 17 points. and the tone was set in the first meeting 2017 that he played, scored less than 10 Antetokounmpo had only nine points. between the teams since last season’s points and the Bucks won anyway. NZ seal Arise Sir Lewis; Formula One 101-run champ Hamilton gets knighthood victory over LONDON – Seven- pressed delight at the Mercedes driver Moss and times Formula One joining a select group of sporting sirs. triple cham- Pakistan in world champion Lewis “Lewis is a true giant of our sport and pion Jackie Hamilton was awarded his influence is huge both in and out of a Stewart and a knighthood in car,” said newly-appointed Formula One the only one to first test the UK New chief executive Stefano Domenicali, a for- have received WELLINGTON – New Zealand’s bowlers Year’s honours mer Ferrari team principal. the award while produced a late final session surge to guide list published “What he has achieved is phenomenal still racing. their side to a tense 101-run victory over yesterday. with still more to come.” Cycling’s Tour de Pakistan in the first test in Mount The 35-year-old Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff hailed France winner Maunganui on Wednesday and keep alive this year became Hamilton, who won his first title with Bradley Wiggins, their hopes of reaching next year’s World the most successful F1 McLaren in 2008, as the most successful Olympic 5,000 and Test Championship final. driver of all time after British sportsperson of his era. 10,000 metres gold Pakistan were dismissed for 271, equalling Ferrari great The knighthood, he added, showed medallist Mo chasing a victory target of 372, with 4.3 Michael Schumacher’s that Hamilton -- often seen as a polar- Farah, twice overs remaining in the test at Bay Oval. record seven titles and beat- ising figure -- was “now receiving the Wimbledon tennis “It was a brilliant game,” New Zealand ing the German’s 91 race recognition he has earned during a champion Andy captain Kane Williamson said. “Both wins. career of unparalleled success in Murray and teams put their best foot forward and The sport’s only Black driver, motorsport”. England cricketer Pakistan were incredibly resilient in that who grew up in social housing “The UK can be very proud to Alastair Cook have second innings, but the boys kept coming. as the grandson of immigrants have a champion and ambas- also been knighted “A huge effort by the bowlers to get us from the Caribbean, Hamilton sador of the calibre of as active across the line.” has also used his profile to cam- Sir Lewis sports- New Zealand had been hot favourites to paign for diversity and speak out Hamilton,” men. win the game as the final day started with against racial injustice. added the the tourists 71-3 but a 165-run partnership The Monaco resident’s presence Austrian. between Fawad Alam and Mohammad on the overseas and international list, Rizwan gave the tourists a chance of a rather than a main one with many re- draw, if not an unlikely victory. warded for service to public health in a Kyle Jamieson ended the partnership pandemic, was seen as a reflection of his when he had Rizwan trapped in front, tax status. albeit after a review, for 60, and left The Daily Mail newspaper said Prime Pakistan 242-6, still 131 runs away from Minister Boris Johnson had “bent the their target with 25 overs remaining. rules” to get around the tax requirements He also had Yasir Shah caught in the for domestic awards. gully for a duck, while Neil Wagner, who The citation referred to Hamilton’s has played the last three days with two sporting record and his “charitable and broken toes, had Fawad caught by philanthropic contributions in the UK wicketkeeper BJ Watling for 102 and then and overseas”. Faheem Ashraf for 19 to expose the tail. Cinematographer Roger Deakins, Mitchell Santner then trapped famed for his work on movies such as Hamilton Mohammad Abbas in front for one, before “1917”, “Shawshank Redemption” and is the fourth last pair Shaheen Afridi and Nassem Shah “Skyfall”, was also knighted on the same F1 driver to be stoically resisted for almost eight overs. overseas list. knighted after Nassem, however, got too far in front of Hamilton’s supporters have long felt the late a delivery from Santner and the left-arm his achievements have not been suffi- Australian Jack spinner leapt high to take the caught and ciently recognised at home and they ex- Brabham, Stirling bowled dismissal and then raucously celebrate the win. FILE PHOTO: Formula One F1 - Bahrain Grand Prix - Bahrain “Not a huge disappointment (with the International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain - November 29, 2020 result),” Rizwan said. “That’s test cricket. Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton celebrates on the podium after We lost this match, but we’re still in the winning the race series.” The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 19 REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE Rangers stay 16 Belle, St. George Land 4 acres $400,000 points clear at top with

Haggatt Hall, St. Michael win over St. Mirren Land 6336 sq ft $126,000 RANGERS retain their straight league wins. 16-point lead at the top of Jonathan Obika Cane Garden, St. Thomas the Scottish Premiership scooped over St. Mirren’s TEL 572-1452 Land 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft after avoiding a repeat of best chance shortly before Cel: 253-6319 Private entrance. From their League Cup defeat the opener. 828-4800 $187,681 to St. Mirren with ease. Rangers have Email: The home side looked responded to that League caribbeanpropertiesltd The Mount, St. George capable of two wins over Cup exit with four wins in @gmail.com Land 6544 sq ft Steven Gerrard’s side a row in their best top- $110,000 within a fortnight early flight start since 1928 as PROPERTIES on. they prepare to host Shop Hill, St Thomas However, first-half second-top reigning Land 11,735 sq ft Kirtons, St Philip strikes from Kemar Roofe champions Celtic. $258,000 3 bedroom plus and Alfredo Morelos were Despite the end of their 2 bedroom apt enough to send Rangers seven-game unbeaten Ragged Point, St. Philip Land 4,790 sq ft $685,000 into Saturday’s Old Firm home run, St. Mirren Land 8,267 sq ft derby on the back of 13 remain seventh. $166,000 Amity Lodge, Ch Ch 3 bedroom plus JOB SEEKERS Rolling Hills, St. George 1 bedroom apt Land 12,000 sq ft Land 6,646 sq ft Qualified nursing auxiliary seek- Sam Allardyce: West Brom boss $315,000 (negotiable) $650,000 ing job taking care of the elder or Ocean City, St. Philip anyone in need of this service. Gibbons, Ch Ch calls for football ‘circuit break’ Land 6150 sq ft 3 bedroom plus $123,000 WEST BROM boss Sam our hands, we’re still defeat at Manchester 2 bedroom apt Tel: 235-3837 Allardyce says football catching a lot infections United on Tuesday. Land 9,835 sq ft $765,000 Fortesque, St Philip needs a break after the round the country. “The rising of the cases is Agricultural Land Premier League returned “If that helps [circuit increasing massively over Breezy Hill, St Philip REAL ESTATE 494,500 sq ft its highest number of breaker], let’s do it and let the country and we are not 3 bedroom, 2 bath $1,100,000 reduced to $298,000 positive coronavirus results the season run a little an exception,” the Black Rock, St. Michael in a single round of tests longer when we get Portuguese said. Silver Sands, Black Rock, St Michael Warehouse/Factory this season. through it.” “Some things are Christ Church 3 bedroom, 1 bath 4000 sf space On Tuesday, the latest In the EFL, coronavirus impossible to avoid. If Land 7,129 sq ft Land 6732 sq ft Land 23,861 sq ft round of Premier League outbreaks at clubs led to there’s a break coming, $160,000 $360,000 $900,000 (reduced) testing found 18 people had seven of Tuesday’s 12 then people have to sit the virus. scheduled League One down and see if it’s for the Bushy Park, St. Philip Enterprise, Christ Church Foul Bay, St. Philip New coronavirus cases at games being postponed. better.” Land 24,000 sq ft 3 bedroom, 2 bath Approved for condos, Fulham led to their The league, which until However, the Premier $200,000 Land 5062 sq ft Land 39,242 sq ft Premier League match at now has carried out League says it has “full $390,000 (reduced) $1,600,000. Tottenham on Wednesday targeted testing, will confidence” that fixtures Apes Hill, St. James Land 31,000 sq ft upward being called off. conduct coronavirus tests will be fulfilled. Golf Club Road, Dover, Christ Church Large lots at $15 per sq ft “I’m very concerned for with all 72 of its clubs in the Following the Christ Church Hotel 18 rooms fully myself and football in week commencing 4 postponement of Fulham’s 3 bedroom, 1 bath operational $2,950,000 neg Mount Wilton, St. Thomas general,” Allardyce said. January. game at Tottenham, it said: fixer upper Land 15,500 sq ft Sheffield United have Oxford United manager “With low numbers of Land 4,000 plus Dalkeith, Christ Church and 22,066 sq ft confirmed they had Karl Robinson told BBC positive tests across the UNDER OFFER Land 17,371 sq ft approved $300,000 and $220,000 “numerous positive tests” Radio 4’s Today overwhelming majority of for shops and offices in the latest round of programme some clubs clubs, the Premier League The Belle, St George $495,000 Union, St. Philip testing. were getting “sloppy". continues to have full Plantation style House Land 7560 sq ft On Monday,Manchester “I can’t come on 100%, confidence in its Covid-19 Standing on 4 acres Roebuck Street, $150,000 UNDER OFFER Bridgetown City’s Premier League but what I know is that protocols and being able to Shopping Mall/Office space match at Everton was certain clubs are doing continue to play our Cottage, St George Frere Pilgrim, $8,100,000 negotiable postponed four hours things slightly wrong,” he fixtures as scheduled.” Land 5000 sq ft Christ Church before kick-off because of a continued. It might be easy to view $110,000 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Batts Rock, St Michael coronavirus outbreak. “I think there’s some Allardyce’s comments as two bedroom apartment. Guest House, Allardyce said a “circuit clubs using gyms inside being a diversionary tactic Morningside, St Philip Land 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 Land 12,078 sq ft break” was the “right with too many players. If after a particularly bad Land 4567 sq ft $2,850,000 negotiable thing” to do to cope with the we want our game to carry night for his new team but $133,000 Hanson Heights, St George outbreak. on, which in my view I the idea of a circuit break is 3 bedroom, 2 baths Cane Garden, St Thomas “Everyone’s safety is think it should, I think we being spoken about. Jupiter Gardens, St Philip Land 8321 sq ft 3.6 acres approved more important than have to get back to how we The Premier League Land 7312 sq ft $595,000 Roadfront land $133,000 anything else,” he added were when football first itself is not raising it – but $1,650,000 negotiable after West Brom’s 5-0 home returned.” those running clubs are Ealing Grove, Bagatelle, St. Thomas defeat by Leeds on Southampton boss Ralph talking about it. Christ Church Fitts Village, St James Land 62000 sq ft into 2 lots Tuesday. Hasenhuttl operated from However,whichever way 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths Guest House, 4 Suites $520,000 each “When I listen to the home via a video link for they turn, the route is Land 9320 sq ft Land 6,135 sq ft news that the variant virus his side’s goalless draw fraught with problems. $565,000 $850,000 negotiable Marley Vale, St Philip transmits quicker than the with West Ham on Tuesday If football stopped now, original virus, we can only after a member of his who is to say when the Land 21,780 sq ft Mason Hill Street The City $275,000 do the right thing, which is household tested positive situation will be better? If LOTS FOR SALE 26,500 sq ft with buildings $4,500,000 negotiable have a circuit break. for coronavirus. this is not the worst point, Sandford, St Philip Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy “I am 66 years old and In League Two, a what is the point, especially Land 16,356 sq ft Land 14,876 sq ft. All enquiries to the last thing I want to do coronavirus outbreak at when the government is $305,000 $110,000 (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 is catch Covid. Morecambe has caused two not asking for it? (246) 572 1452 “As much as we’re of their games – at Bolton And, as Ole Gunnar Bushy Park, St. Philip or getting tested – we had one Wanderers and Bradford – Solskjaer pointed out when COMMERCIAL Land 17,000 sq ft (246) 247 4469 positive this week – it to be postponed. I asked the Manchester $10 sq ft seems to be creeping round. Wolves boss Nuno United manager what he Mount Standfast, St James No matter how hard we try, Espirito Santo also reacted thought about it after their Two properties on Inchcape, St. Philip no matter how many times to the latest round of victory over Wolves, when 22,714 sq ft Land. Land 4355 sq ft we get tested, how we wear Premier League testing would the games get Asking $1,200,000 $ 96,000 our masks,how we sanitise figures after his side’s 1-0 played?

20 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline GODDARD ENTERPRISES LIMITED 21,190 $2.15 $2.15 $2.15 $0.00 December 30, 2020

One security traded firm as 21,190 shares traded on the Regular Market, with a total value of $45,558.50. Goddard Enterprises Limited Deposit Receipts was the sole security trading 21,190 shares at $2.15. Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $20.73 $20.75 $0.02

BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Wednesday December 30, 2020 INDICES LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE December 30, 2020 December 29, 2020 Local 2,598.49 2,598.47 0.02 ABV Investments Incorporated 15-Oct-20 - - - $0.05 $0.05 - $0.02 $0.30 8,080 10,498 Cross-list 933.43 933.43 - BICO Limited 21-Sep-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - - - - - Composite 632.28 632.27 0.01 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - December 30, 2020 December 29, 2020 Local 5,223.10 5,223.06 0.04 Barbados Farms Limited 10-Dec-20 - - - $0.40 $0.40 - $0.35 $0.40 1,000 12,870 Cross-list 119.19 119.19 - Composite 5,342.29 5,342.25 0.04 Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 10-Dec-20 - - - $4.10 $4.10 - $3.50 $4.10 10,000 1,262 MUTUAL FUND FirstCaribbean International Bank 23-Dec-20 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $2.00 $2.10 3,426 5,512 December 30, 2020 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 10-Dec-20 - - - $0.18 $0.18 - $0.13 $0.17 1,365 4,667 CHANGE - Dev Fund 24-Dec-20 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.1772 -0.0011 24-Dec-20 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2494 0.0003 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 18-Dec-20 - - - $0.57 $0.57 - $0.54 $0.57 2,427 2,427 24-Dec-20 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6726 -0.0003 -Value Fund 24-Dec-20 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.2422 6.2422 6.2422 -0.0144 24-Dec-20 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.0961 0.0004 Goddard Enterprises Limited 30-Dec-20 21,190 $2.15 $2.15 $2.15 $2.15 $0.00 $2.15 $2.20 4,506 10,354 24-Dec-20 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0204 0.0003 30-Nov-20 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.4327 5.4327 5.3240 -0.0242 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 04-Dec-20 - - - $1.78 $1.78 - $1.78 $2.50 78 34,950 30-Nov-20 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 0.9826 0.9826 0.9629 -0.0109 30-Nov-20 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUND m 1.6267 1.6267 1.5942 0.0055 One Caribbean Media Limited 18-Dec-20 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - $1.80 $2.50 800 800 24-Dec-20 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.68 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 24-Dec-20 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.63 0.01 24-Dec-20 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.99 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - -- $2.80 $2.80 - - - -- * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE West India Biscuit Company Limited 18-Dec-20 - - - $31.50 $31.50 - $31.50 - 155 - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $20.73 $20.75 $0.02 $30.00 - 50 - m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly

TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD 21,190 Fixed Income Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size GOB Series B 27-Nov-20 $60.00 $60.00 - $60.00 - 412,374 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 - - - - * = Security is Trading X-Div GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 - - - - *+* = Security is Suspended GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 $70.00 103,713 ** = Rights Issued NEWS

NOTICES Bitcoin jumps to record ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS West India Biscuit Company Limited - Directors have fixed January 7th, 2021 as the record date for the determination of $28,600 as 2020 rally shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on February 12th, 2021. DIVIDEND DECLARATIONS reaches new heights West India Biscuit Company Limited – Directors have declared a final dividend of seventy-five ($0.75) cents per share to be paid on January 11th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on January 7th, 2021. LONDON – Bitcoin on puters that validate blocks Cave Shepherd and Company Limited – Directors have declared a final dividend of five ($0.05) cents per share to be paid on Wednesday jumped to a of transactions by compet- February 19th, 2021 to Shareholders on record at close of business on February 5th, 2021. record $28,599.99, after the ing to solve mathematical BSE NOTICES digital currency almost puzzles – has helped power COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE In light of the ongoing COVID-19 contagion affecting the island, the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central quadrupled in value this upward moves over recent Securities Depository Inc. (BCSDI) have been instituting several procedural changes. year amid heightened inter- days. est from bigger investors. Many recent entrants to Kindly note that effective May 18th, 2020, the BSE and BCSDI re-opened and has resumed normal office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 The world’s most popular the market are holding onto p.m. Please also note that we have implemented digital temperature checks for all persons entering the building. These checks are cryptocurrency was last positions, they said. being conducted on both staff and clients alike by trained personnel. up 2.3% at $28,012. It has “The supply side to the While we acknowledge that every person with fever may not be COVID-19 positive and that some individuals may present without surged by nearly half since bitcoin market will remain symptoms, please note that any person with a temperature reading of 100˚ F (37.8˚ C) or over will be denied entry to conduct business breaking $20,000 for the tight,” said Jacob Skaaning within our offices. first time on Dec. 16. of crypto hedge fund We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation, however, we must emphasize that this is a necessary step Bitcoin has increasingly ARK36. for the protection of staff and clients alike. seen demand from larger The latest gains took bit- TRADING SUSPENSION US investors in particular, coin’s market capitalisation The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section attracted by its perceived past $518 billion, according 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were inflation-hedging qualities to industry website suspended effective December 10th, 2019. and potential for quick CoinMarketCap. gains, as well as expecta- Other major cryptocur- The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section tions it would become a rencies, which tend to move 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. mainstream payments in tandem with bitcoin, method. were flat. Ethereum, the The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way Investors said limited second biggest, was down of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor supply of bitcoin – produced 0.4%, on track for a 2020 Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. by so-called “mining” com- gain of around 465%. The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 • 21

22 • Thursday December 31, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Arsenal now ‘in a different world’ ARSENAL are now in a “different forwards Neal Maupay and Danny world”, according to manager Mikel Welbeck on the bench – two of six Arteta, after they recorded back-to- changes made to the starting XI. His back league wins for the first time side once again looked comfortable and since September by beating composed on the ball but it was a Brighton. frustrating story in attack. Before Christmas, Match of the Day The closest the home side came to pundit Alan Shearer was among those to scoring was when Alireza Jahanbakhsh question whether the Gunners had what forced a sharp save from Bernd Leno at it took to retain the place in the top flight his near post. they have held since 1919. Arsenal climb up to 13th and now have Defeat at Everton on 19 December left 20 points, while Brighton remain two them only four points above the points above the drop zone in 17th. relegation zone after 14 games – their The Scotland full-back was adamant worst start to the season since 1974-75. that the emphatic victory over the Blues However, fortunes changed with a was partly due to the side starting on the surprise 3-1 victory over Chelsea last front foot, so it came as a slight surprise weekend, which has now been followed that the Gunners retreated into their up by this latest success. shells during the first half against “In this period, we know how much we Brighton. needed the wins,” Arteta said. Alexandre Lacazette scored the quickest goal by a substitute in the league since Aubameyang replaced Lacazette in “We had a really tough week and it Bernardo Silva scored after 17 seconds for Manchester City against Brighton in the starting XI, but he was left chasing wasn’t that much about the 2019. scraps as his team-mates failed to performance, it was about the result. provide him with adequate service. “You need the results to start The Spaniard, 38, added:“Considering However, the tempo and urgency was Thankfully for the club’s fans, it was a confidence and now with two wins,I the context we’re in now, the pandemic turned up a couple of notches after the match of two halves – their team looked think everyone is in a much better mood. and the problems we’ve had recently,it’s break, with Pierre-Emerick rejuvenated after the break. “The best medicine is wins – it’s a been quite a challenge. Aubameyang and Gabriel Martinelli Aubameyang went close soon after the different world and a different story.The “I’m enjoying and suffering in some going close before French striker restart when he attempted to turn home picture looks much better at the moments, but I have great people around Alexandre Lacazette fired home in the Saka’s cross but was thwarted by the moment.We need that more consistency me and a great organisation.” 66th minute. knee of Robert Sanchez. His side then and try to win again.” Tuesday’s display lacked the fizz of The second-half substitute had only broke through. Arteta, in charge of Arsenal since that 3-1 win over the Blues, and they been on the pitch 29 seconds when he Saka, exceptional on the flanks, this December 2019, said he had suffered “in were particularly sluggish in the first swept in Bukayo Saka’s ball for his third time set up Lacazette, who barely had some moments” this year, but had the half when they only managed one effort goal in three games. time to get his studs dirty as he fired his support of the club. on goal. Brighton boss Graham Potter left shot past the Seagulls keeper. The Barbados Advocate Thursday December 31, 2020 •23

P R O HOROSCOPES S A ARIES: Someone you thought was easy going will turn out N to be fastidious, fussy and annoying. A team effort has hit a D brick wall due to their insistence on doing everything by the book. The more involved they get, the more obstacles you C seem to encounter. It may be necessary for you to work in O the background without their interference. N S TAURUS: Someone is grateful to have you as their mentor. You will enjoy guiding and advising people while allowing them space to develop in their own way. As you watch them improve and their confidence grow, so too will you be reaping the benefits. It feels good to be able to make such a difference in other people’s lives.

GEMINI: Guard your vulnerable heart. Someone you Z recently met is not the person they first seemed to be. Anew I friend or colleague could defraud you as you find yourself T mixed up with people who aren’t really good for you now. S Be wary and remember trust has to be earned.

CANCER:Achange of abode could turn out to be fortunate for you. Start looking around to see what options are available if you’ve been thinking about moving. If you do find a place that feels perfect for you, act immediately while the offer is still open. If you ask for time to think about it, someone else might get in before you. R LEO: It may be that a friend or partner has not been E deliberately lying or deceiving you. Even so, what you X discover about an incident they were recently involved in will knock you for six. It’s hard to admit that you never really M knew them even though you thought you were so close. O R VIRGO: You can’t abide mess. You’re ready now to put G away the Christmas decorations and to declutter your home A and work environments. There may be some complaints N from others who are happy to work in this disorganised state but you prefer tidiness and to have everything in its right place. Once you get rid of any clutter, you will feel more in control.

LIBRA: Friction, either in the family, in the workplace or between friends will have a negative impact on your life. You P prefer harmony above all else and it will upset you when H there is tension in the air. You really won’t know how an A argument started but you will be doing all you can to resolve N this issue. T O SCORPIO: It won’t be the easiest thing to do but in an M emotional confrontation your aim should be to remain objective. If you allow your feelings to colour your judgement, you’re likely to make a wrong decision. Others will thank you if you are willing to look at the logical side of this argument.

SAGITTARIUS: You will be in a better position to start something new in the New Year if you get jobs that need M completing, out of the way. If you are running your own A business expect to see an increase in demand for your R services over the months ahead. Taking a more organised Y approach will make you feel you can start 2021 off on the right foot. W O CAPRICORN: You might be suspicious of something your R partner or a relative tells you. Something makes you feel they T aren’t being honest but keep your thoughts to yourself. You H could have picked things up wrongly. You wish you hadn’t taken on chores just to do someone a favour. They now feel like a burden.

AQUARIUS: You were starting to wonder whether all the M time and effort you have been putting into a project has been O worth it. Just as you were about to give up, you will start T seeing results. You will feel inspired now to keep going in H the hope of moving on to bigger and better things in the E future. R

PISCES: A quiet ending to the year will give you a chance G to reflect on your past and think about the future. You aren’t O particularly bothered that there isn’t a lot happening in your O neighbourhood. Instead you will enjoy a quiet evening with S E your feet up, relaxing. You would rather be indoors than have to go out and face the world. Arise Sir Lewis Formula One champ Hamilton gets knighthood Page 18

Thursday December 31, 2020 ADD NEW COMPONENT

A CALL is being made for a new component to be Learning defensive driving should added to the requirements individuals who are be required to obtain licence desirous of learning how to drive must undergo. “I would really like to see added to the requirements of This comes from President some comprehensive training getting a driver’s license, of the Barbados Road Safety for persons who are involved in because as it stands it is a bit Association, Sharmane accidents and also new drivers too easy to obtain.” Roland-Bowen, who stated she as well. I would like to see the Roland-Bowen additionally would like to see a course on driving test [become] more called on insurance companies defensive driving being added. stringent. People being tested “to step forward and help out She spoke to The Barbados not only in road rules, but to where they can”. Advocate during a recent see a safety component being a She also called for persons interview. part.” who have been involved in Presently, persons 16 years She continued, “When I say a motor accidents to be old and older have to take a safety component, I am talking involved in “remedial driver regulations test to gain a valid about defensive driving being training. When I say remedial learner’s permit. With this, a component or part of the driver training, let them do individuals can take lessons requirement, whether it be the defensive driving, give and following that the driving test or the practical part of them the opportunity…” President of the Barbados Road Safety Association, test to obtain a driver’s license. driving defensively being (MG) Sharmane Roland-Bowen Higher education important WHILE Caribbean the Institute of Caribbean The Former Prime Minister governments are being Studies and the University of continued, “Let us draw severely impacted financially the West Indies. His comments inspiration from the victories by the COVID-19 pandemic,a came as he noted that The of our ancestors who survived former regional leader says University of the West Indies the ravages of the Middle they must not renege on their has served the descendants of Passage. Let us encourage and duty to ensure that there is enslaved Africans and Indian amplify the discourse of continued access to higher indentured labourers in the marginalised peoples education for the people of the Caribbean well over the everywhere, strive for slavery Caribbean. years. reparations. Let us promote Former Prime Minister of In fact, Patterson said that investments to eradicate Jamaica, P.J. Patterson, the university ensures the poverty and acknowledge the drawing on his experience of social mobility of its students, diverse identities and leading Jamaica from 1992 to many of whom are from experiences of Black slave 2006, noted that while the humble circumstances, descendants in the USA, the contraction of the economy and through the delivery of quality Caribbean and elsewhere; and the reduction in personal education. of Black migrants from the incomes caused by the “This therefore requires us Caribbean, Africa and pandemic will result in all to step up to the plate. The elsewhere to the developed government revenue and debt private sector must realise countries”. servicing budgets being their compelling need for Moreover, he called for steps adversely affected, graduates in their business to be taken to develop and governments must ensure that operations and we as alumni implement global policies that access to higher must give something back to foster non-discriminatory education is expanded, and not the debt we owe for our access practices, so as to ensure the reduced. to tertiary education,” equal treatment of people of He was at the time delivering Patterson said. colour, by law. remarks during a recently held His comments came as he “We must remain in the virtual event dubbed ‘The spoke of the hardships endured vanguard of the quest for University in an Age of by people of colour, and he said liberty and justice now and in Activism’, hosted by the Centre efforts must be made to the years ahead,”he Former Prime Minister of Jamaica, P.J. Patterson for Reparations Research and improve their lot. contended. (JRT)

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