Established October 1895 Proposal to vaccinate visitors without locals knowing very concerning PAGE 3

Friday March 5, 2021 $2 VAT Inclusive ‘Church and WORRYING STATS Government ONE local surgeon has must have revealed that colorectal Colorectal cancer responsible for significant cancer deaths cancer is responsible for 15 per cent of cancer deaths silent and subtle way of this living a sedentary lifestyle, the large bowel,” said Dr. dialogue’ in Barbados. type of disease, explained that eating a low fibre and high-fat Peters. FOUNDER and Senior Pastor Consultant General Surgeon, colorectal cancer is the third diet, and consuming red meat, He added that the majority of Restoration Ministries, Dr. Adrian Peters, gave most common site in women smoking, and alcohol use of cases are sporadic. People Apostle Dr. David Durant, these statistics during his behind breast cancer and are contributing factors to with a family history of cancer, views dialogue between the presentation on Wednesday. cervical cancer. Also, he noted colorectal cancer. In his inflammatory bowel disease, Church and the Government as He participated in Cancer that it is the second most presentation, Dr. Peters noted those with a history of critical. Support Services’ “Colorectal common site in men after that this type of cancer is treatment for colorectal cancer, So much so, he has made a Cancer: Know What’s Up Your prostate cancer. commonly found on the left having polyps, being older are fervent call for the Church to be Butt” virtual event, during the side of the colon. also risk factors for developing part of the Social Partnership colorectal awareness month of Sedentary lifestyle a “Sixty-seven per cent of all this type of cancer. in Barbados. March. contributing factor colorectal cancers you find Apostle Durant, who was Dr. Peters, who outlined the The surgeon indicated that existing on the left side of CANCER on Page 5 delivering the sermon during the Caribbean Day of Prayer event hosted by Prayer Warriors International Foundation, declared: “The Church and the Government in a nation must have dialogue as it relates to God’s direction and guidance for the nation. “We need to see the Church and the Government not divided and separated, but the Church having the voice of God coming forth and able to say he’s standing alongside you.” The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t stop the annual initiative of Pastor Courtney Selman, former Barbados fast bowler and founder of Prayer Warriors International, an inter- denominational group of faith- based believers. Yesterday’s event, which went virtual for the first time in its 12-year history, successfully brought together several participants from across the region under the theme, “March Forth on our Knees”. Apostle Durant said that COVID-19 has changed the lives of people the world over – social distancing, wearing of masks, constant sanitising, and the long lines in supermarkets and banks. Also pointing to this period of lockdown, he advised that persons use this time to rediscover the power of prayer. “That is why I encourage the brethren, instead of using the term ‘lockdown’ which is a political term, I say let’s change the language among ourselves and let’s say we are ‘locked in’. Use this opportunity to be locked in with God and to be locked on to what he is doing and saying,” he urged. “God is reminding us to rebuild our pray altar and rediscover the true power of UP AND RUNNING: Barbadians were happy that the Licensing Department reopened to the public yesterday, of course with strict adherence to the COVID-19 protocols. Activity at the Pine location was steady as work restarted. DIALOGUE on Page 4 2 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

New radio show to be introduced By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste be in partnership with CBC and I want to thank the CEO STARTING next week, a of CBC, Sanka Price, for his new radio show about willingness to support this COVID-19 will air. matter.” This was revealed by She noted that the pro- Ambassador Elizabeth gramme will run three times a Thompson, Co-ordinator of the week – Mondays, Wednesdays COVID Communications and Fridays, adding that it Unit, during a recent press would be aired in the morning conference. and will be on all traditional She explained that this new media streams as well as so- means of communications will cial media platforms. focus on matters relating to Thompson expressed that COVID-19 and will aim to an- medical practitioners, mental swer all questions posed to health specialists and a them by the public. plethora of specialists from “Next week we are going to a wide range of areas will be There were 45 recoveries, bringing the number of active cases to 498. be introducing a new means present to give information of communications about about COVID and answer the matters relating to COVID. public’s COVID-related ques- COVID-19 update: 23 new cases, 45 recoveries We have tried to be open and tions. TWENTY-THREE new cases been at the Harrison Point lic health laboratory has com- transparent and be timely in She noted that once the pro- of COVID-19 were identified Isolation Facility undergoing as- pleted 128,291 tests. giving information to the pub- gramme was up and running, on Wednesday, March 3, out of sessment to determine whether Thirty-seven people have died lic on all aspects of COVID-19 persons were encouraged to the 720 tests conducted by the they were newly positive, or had from COVID-19. and next week we expect to be send their queries into CBC Best-dos Santos Public Health COVID-19 in the past and were There were 1,609 persons vac- starting a radio programme via e-mail or WhatsApp. Laboratory. no longer infectious. The other cinated on Wednesday, as part called ‘COVID Queries’ hosted Thompson added that CBC There were 45 recoveries, 17 persons are Barbadians. of the National Vaccination by Sharon Marshall, who is no will be giving more infor- bringing the number of active Barbados has recorded 3,186 Programme for COVID-19. stranger to broadcasting in mation about the new pro- cases to 498. confirmed cases – 1,504 females To date, a total of 44,859 vac- Barbados,” she said. gramme as they aim to keep The 23 new positive cases and 1,682 males – and 2,651 cinations have been adminis- “Dr. Sharon Marshall will the public updated on matters comprised seven men and 16 persons have recovered. tered – 18,939 men and 25,920 be the host and it is going to relating to COVID-19. women. Six of them had already Since February 2020, the pub- women. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 3

Proposal to vaccinate visitors without locals knowing very concerning CONCERN has been Central dated March 2nd Why is it that this to be answered, so that we expressed about what and another in Travel Off Government continues to can be comfortable that has been said to be a Path dated March 1st. keep pertinent informa- there is no further strain “very ambitious” pro- Both articles refer to the tion away from taxpayers on our already stretched posal to commence the release they received from of this country? When the systems and that locals process of vaccina- the Barbados Tourism Prime Minister made are not disadvantaged, in tions for visitors from Marketing Inc., revealing mention of Barbadians do- light of a rollout that is April 2021, without lo- a plan for vaccines to be nating to a vaccine fund, intended to reach at least cals having any clear given to visitors, during why did she not share the 70% to 80% of Barbadians information on the April and May,” Gibson news of this plan?” he in this country, with the process. said. queried. Oxford-AstraZeneca vac- The issue was raised “We have press briefings He added, “In keeping cine.” just recently by Paul sometimes three times a with the objective of “A proposal to vaccinate Gibson, Democratic week, and not once were achieving herd immunity, visitors without commu- Labour Party spokesper- we given details about any the effort to have individ- nicating to locals clear son on Health. plan to vaccinate visitors. uals other than locals, par- methodology,is a concern. “I’ve just read two arti- We have to read about this ticularly long-stay visitors This plan for an April cles – one in Travel Agency in overseas magazines. vaccinated is important 2021 commencement of and ultimately necessary vaccinations for visitors, in the fight against the is very ambitious at this COVID-19 virus. However, time,” Gibson stated. Paul Gibson, Democratic Labour Party spokesperson Jordan addresses issue there are many questions (RSM) on Health. of forced vacation By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste cent times electronically to Chance for youth to have their say say, ‘I’d like to go on vaca- ONCE an employer has tion in October,September ONE organisation is giv- youth to bring that mes- given their employee at or November at some ing young persons an sage?” least 14 days’ notice of point in time.’ What I need opportunity to have their Dr.Peter, who was at intended vacation, then to re-emphasise is that say on ways Barbados can the time speaking as a the employee is obligated vacation is really at the strive to become a more panellist during the call-in to go on vacation. discretion of the employer sustainable country. radio programme, ‘Green The issue of forced and that is according to Executive Director of Economy: Let’s Talk About vacation has been on the law.” the Biocultural Education It’ on Wednesday,said the forefront of many employ- However,Jordan ex- and Research Programme campaign “is in line with ees’ minds and Minister of plained that an employer (BERP), Dr. Sonia Peter, the UN designation of Labour, Colin Jordan, ad- was not allowed to give explained this is being 2021 as the year of fruits dressed this issue during a their employee less than done through BERP’s and vegetables”. recent press conference. 14 days’ notice that they recently launched cam- “I think it is so timely. The Minister noted that were going to have to take paign, SustainaBIM – Maybe they looked into during the beginning of vacation as a worker and Sustainable Barbados. the crystal ball and saw the lockdown period in that was also according to “We need to let our that we are going to have 2020, his Ministry would law. young people know that to push and look at our have encouraged workers He noted that once that they can participate, even individual resources and to take vacation so that notice is given, then em- if it is at the level of being maximise on them, be- they would still receive ployees are obligated to young advocates in pro- cause we want our young pay, and this was some- take that vacation. moting the underlining Executive Director of the Biocultural Education and people as young advocates thing that they continued Jordan said that they principles of what a green Research Programme (BERP), Dr. Sonia Peter. to enter our competition to encourage. were careful to make sure economy can do for the with a short five-minute “We know that you have that this was the law, so island. It is about using contributions we are mak- we’ve got going just video and let us know to get to a certain point in that no one could say that our resources, it is about ing to encourage the youth recently launched, it’s their idea on how we can terms of building up vaca- due to the ongoing pan- looking inward, having an to be involved in sharing called SustainaBim – be more sustainable with tion entitlement and so demic, this was no longer inward vision.” the message of sustain- Sustainable Barbados. the resources that we do coming out of 2020 many in effect. She added, “One of the ability is a new campaign How can we engage the have.” (MG) workers are not at that point, but we have been in continual discussion with Regulations coming to accompany Safety and Health at Work Act employers and some have started to give vacation, THE Ministry of Labour “COVID-19: Your a bit of time working on speaks to health, safety we will be going to sometimes in advance,” and Social Partnership Workplace and You”. those regulations within and welfare. So those Parliament to have those he said. Relations has been “We have been working the Ministry, regulations regulations are very im- regulations put into force “While we do that, there working on a number of very hard on regulations to do with the provision portant,” he stressed. and those for us are re- are also questions that we regulations which are to to the Safety and Health of water, the provision of He added, “We’ve re- ally, really very impor- have been getting such as accompany the island’s at Work Act. Now this sanitary facilities, regula- ceived a draft from the tant, long outstanding.” ‘Can an employer force me Safety and Health at is an Act that has been tions in relation to noise, Chief Parliamentary He stressed, “There are to go on vacation?’ Over Work Act. enforced for quite some in relation to PPE (per- Counsel’s Office. We’ve re- still conversations about many years in workplaces, Minister of Labour, time, but there have been sonal protective equip- viewed that and we are persons working in agri- what would typically hap- Social Partnership no regulations to accom- ment), much of those about to send back to culture and not having ac- pen is that at the begin- Relations and the Third pany the Act. So the grey things that are topical, the Chief Parliamentary cess to sanitary facilities. ning of the year a worker Sector, Colin Jordan, re- areas that exist have but are very important for Counsel some final com- All of these matters will or department would have vealed the above recently, been causing some chal- workers and the welfare ments and once that is be addressed in the regu- a sheet of paper which as he headlined a COVID- lenges,” Minister Jordan of workers. Remember done, then we will be lations to the Safety and goes around, or may have 19 Update and Press revealed. that the Safety and going to Cabinet to get Health at Work Act.” people apply in more re- Conference on the topic, “So we have spent quite Health at Work Act approval and thereafter, (RSM) 4 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Prayer necessary Wickham opposes at this time heavy fines, jail DIALOGUE from Page 1 prayer. But many people, resigned to all that is hap- pening around us – the time for COVID-19 wickedness, the evil – seem to have resigned to just go along with what- ever is happening and protocol violators believing that there is no hope, and prayer is of no POLITICAL Scientist medical solutions were numbers of Barbadians use. But we the Church Peter Wickham is being implemented, this who broke quarantine in know different. And we strongly against heavy was creating “unintended pursuit of their ontologi- have to keep up prayer be- fines and jail time problems”. cal needs – the needs to cause now more than ever, being handed down “We have endured a eat, sleep, seek shelter and we should be calling upon to COVID-19 protocol second, more painful lock- have sex.These are things God fervently with all of violators. down and this time the that we human beings are our hearts.” Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David His sentiments echoed courts have been littered programmed to do. Guest speaker, Comissiong. several made over the with evidence of our fail- “I am sorry, I do not see Barbados’ Ambassador lockdown period against ure to stop mingling. Some a man or woman who does to CARICOM, David for a perfect good – a long- will help us to see and the decision to fine or of you may argue that day work to provide for Comissiong, said that if ing that is always there understand more clearly incarcerate several indi- those cases are instances family and prefers to work ever there was a time and and that is never satisfied what we need and have viduals pleading guilty to of ‘wufless’ Bajans who are for a living, instead of ac- a need for prayer, that by any object in this to do to navigate our acting in contravention of mingling. However,I think cepting a food parcel and time is now. world,” he expressed. way safely through the the Emergency Directives not. We have a case of a goes in pursuit of such as “For me, when we pray, “As we pray today, we predicament that COVID- in place. young man who just left a ‘wufless criminal’,” he we turn our attention and ask that we may have con- 19 and the several other Some of these breaches university and his father, said, while speaking on a love to God – the source of ferred upon us the God- social, cultural, moral include: incorrectly or not and they both now have call-in radio programme absolute good, truth and sent inspirations that and environmental pan- wearing a mask; being out- criminal records after earlier this week. beauty. We look within will provide us with the demics have inflicted side during curfew hours being incarcerated for The pollster noted the ourselves to the core of our wisdom, the values, the upon our nations and our without having a reason- having friends over to long-term impact of crim- being; to the centre of our initiative, the sense of Caribbean region,” the able explanation or having break bread. We have a inal records must be con- heart in which a longing agency and urgency – that Ambassador said. (TL) an emergency pass; or young man who lives with- sidered, especially when hosting or taking part in out electricity and water seeking employment. parties or limes, to name who must now find $1,250 “We have applied med- a few. in fines... This is evidence ical solutions and we have Wickham argued the of failing to curtail our created a major social and pandemic was being mingling… I am confident legal problem while the looked at from a medical that these cases are but a medical problem continues standpoint and because small portion of the huge to exist,” he argued. BWA’s payment centre hours amended

THE Barbados Water Beginning Monday, various platforms and are Authority wishes to March 8th the operating encouraged to call 434- advise the public that hours of the Payment 4292 or e-mail customer- the opening hours of and Customer Service [email protected] regard- its Payment Centre Centres will return to ing queries or complaints, have been amended to 8:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., Persons requesting new 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Monday to Friday. services are asked to call Thursday, March 4th & Customers may also or email in advance for Friday, March 5th ONLY. pay bills online using the assistance. ‘Big demand for skilled labour’ THERE is a shortage of are getting ready soon to the execution of that skilled labourers in the have a form of apprentice- project, clients of the facil- field of solar installation ship/learn-and-earn sce- ity were able to be trained and measures are being nario targeted at young in solar installation and set in place to provide people primarily, but earn their Caribbean training in this area, so anybody can participate Vocational Qualification more Barbadians can fill and that learn and earn (CVQ) in this area. the void. programme, you would be “We have a skill deficit Such was shared by working with a master in the sector, both on the Industrial Designer and installer, so to speak and technical side and on the CEO Designate, Barbados that person would be biological side as well, so Investment and Develop- teaching you.” we will be doing a number ment Corporation (BIDC), Hill, who was respond- of initiatives like that to Mark Hill, on Wednesday. ing to the question of how help move things for- He was one of the panel- the average Barbadian ward... So we want to lists who spoke during the can get involved in the encourage Barbadians call-in radio programme, green economy, further to sign up when the pro- ‘Green Economy: Let’s stated the programme will grammes are launched Talk About It’. be similar to that which and to get involved in cre- “So there is a big de- was conducted by Verdun ating these green jobs mand for skilled labour in House within their ‘Solar and these blue jobs going that particular space. We Rooftop Project’. During forward.” (MG) The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 5

June start for CAPE and CSEC THE Caribbean tests between May and the topic of the School- June 2022 CSEC or Examinations Council August. CSEC and Based Assessments or CCSLC session for any (CXC) will start CAPE examinations will SBAs, due to the chal- subject for which they Caribbean Secondary be written under tradi- lenges experienced by were previously regis- Education Certificate tional circumstances past candidates, CXC tered. Students have (CSEC) and with Paper One and had reduced the assess- until May 1, 2021 to Caribbean Advanced Paper Two. ment requirements for apply for deferrals for Proficiency Exam- In his earlier com- SBA by as much as 50 their June-July 2021 ex- ination (CAPE) exam- ments, Dr. Wesley ex- per cent in some cases. amination cycle and the inations on June 14, plained that CXC will He noted that these current registration will despite the effects of submit to all Ministries details were issued in be placed on hold. There the COVID-19 pan- of Education, the broad November 2020 to the will be no fee implication demic. topics to be assessed on local registrars for for subject deferral, even Registrar and Chief Paper Two, five weeks schools and some posted if subjects span across Executive Officer of the before the exam; a list- on websites for candi- January and May-June Caribbean Examinations ing of these topics will be dates. He added that sessions of 2022. Council (CXC), Dr. available to the Ministry there is a one-month Director of Operations Wayne Wesley,made this of Education. extension for the sub- of CXC, Dr. Nicole announcement during This was one of several mission of all SBAs. Manning, who was the virtual press confer- outcomes from the Students who wish to present for the meeting ence on Monday. “Administration of the defer SBAs can do so at review, noted that of the In addition to indi- 2021 CAPE and CSEC a subsequent sitting. 21,450 review requests, cating the examination Examinations” March 1 “CXC will maintain about 92 per cent were period between June 14 meeting with CARICOM the 100 per cent moder- completed for CSEC and to July 16, 2021, other Ministers of Education ation of SBAs across all over 93 per cent were examination dates are and other Regional centres for all subjects,” completed for CAPE. July 19 to 22 for the Education Officials. said Dr. Wesley. “We had no grade Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of Caribbean Caribbean Certificate For deferrals, the CXC diminishing for any Examinations Council (CXC), Dr. Wayne Wesley. of Secondary Level Updates on SBAs, head stated that can- candidate who requested Competence (CCSLC) extensions, and didates will be able to a review. In relation to completed, we had 1.77 over 500,000 CSEC sub- and Caribbean deferrals defer January 2022 positive grade changes per cent positive grade ject entries and 102,000 Vocational Qualification Dr. Wesley noted that on CSEC sitting or May- for CAPE, of the 9,118 changes and for CSEC, prospective candidates 0.45 per cent,” said Dr. with over 107,000 CAPE Manning. entries and about 27,000 Signs of colorectal The CXC has reported candidates. cancer highlighted UWI application ease CANCER from Page 1 Sudden onset of consti- pation, change in stool size for CAPE students Dr. Peters explained (pencil size) and increase THE University of the grade one to four, have the that one of the warning in mucous, inability to West Indies (The UWI) is requisite CSEC and they signs is bleeding from the pass gas or stool com- assisting 2020 Caribbean are currently registered bowel, which can be bright pletely, abdominal pain, Advanced Proficiency for either Unit one or two, red to dark. He strongly weight loss, jaundice, loss Examination (CAPE) stu- will qualify as normal ma- suggested that if this is the of appetite, vomiting, or dents by adjusting the ma- triculates into The UWI. case,the individual should mass in the abdomen are triculation requirements He stressed that the re- seek medical advice. The also indicators that would for the academic year quirements that he stated medical professional also warrant investigation. Dr. starting in September are the minimum admis- highlighted anaemia as Peters stressed that early 2021. sion requirements and the another sign of concern as screening will lead to Pro Vice-Chancellor of faculties could make the it relates to possible col- higher survival rates and The University of the West matriculation require- orectal cancer. outcomes for patients. Consultant General Surgeon, Dr. Adrian Peters. Indies Cave Hill Campus, ments more stringent as Professor Clive Landis, they desired. disclosed this during a vir- He explained that Live presentations of UWI Annual Reports begin today tual press conference on this process will allow a the decisions from the smooth transition, despite THE UWI Regional and over the coming will be carried live on the 9:00 a.m. (EST/Jamaica) | “Administration of the all of the anxieties and un- Headquarters, Jamaica – weeks, Campus Council University’s public infor- 10:00 a.m. (AST/Eastern 2021 CAPE and CSEC certainties that currently Continuing its tradition meetings will be held mation multimedia plat- Caribbean) Examinations” meeting exist. and commitment to trans- virtually at Mona, Cave form via www.uwitv.org held on March 1. “What this allows you to parency and engagement Hill, St. Augustine, Open and via Facebook live from • Friday, March 19 Professor Landis said do is right now, based on among its stakeholders, Campus and Five Islands 9:00 a.m. (EST/Jamaica) | Open Campus Council that the delayed CAPE last year’s CAPE units The University of the West respectively. Then on 10:00 a.m. (AST/Eastern Meeting | 8:00 a.m. exam results will be that you’ve sat, to make an Indies (The UWI) begins Friday, April 30, 2020, the Caribbean). (Belize) | 9:00 a.m. released to the Ministry application to UWI so that a series of live broadcast University Council will Others in the series of (EST/Jamaica) | of Education in late the faculties can consider of its annual report pre- hear from Vice-Chancellor the 2021 UWI Council 10:00 a.m. (AST/Eastern September and students it and you can have a sentations today, Friday, of The UWI, Professor Sir Meetings will be carried Caribbean) will receive these results dialogue about all of the March 5 via UWItv. Hilary Beckles an account via UWItv’s online and in October. He explained admission requirements The Council Meetings, of the overall University Flow Channels.The sched- • Friday, March 26 that this will be after The and it is more than just as they are called, are con- system and its Centre op- ule of upcoming meetings Five Islands Campus UWI’s first semester has grades.We also need per- sidered the regional, pub- erations. follows: Council Meeting | started. sonal details and then lic University’s annual Today, at the first of the • Friday, March 12 9:00 a.m. (EST/Jamaica) | The special UWI re- the University is able to business meetings, during 2021 Council Meetings, Cave Hill Campus 10:00 a.m. (AST/Eastern quirements will allow stu- make you an offer,” said which accountability of op- Pro Vice-Chancellor and Council Meeting | Caribbean) dents to matriculate with Professor Landis. erations, finances and all Principal, Professor Dale 9:30 a.m. (EST/Jamaica) | passes in CAPE units from Earlier, Professor activities undertaken dur- Webber,will lead the pres- 10:30 a.m. (AST/Eastern • Friday, April 30 last year and make an ap- Landis praised the CARI- ing the academic year are entation of the annual re- Caribbean) University Council plication to The UWI. COM Council for Human presented to the Councils. port for the Mona Campus Meeting | 9:00 a.m. Professor Landis said and Social Development Each of The UWI’s five for the academic year end- • Tuesday, March 16 (EST/Jamaica) | that students who have (COHSOD) for unani- campuses is governed by ing July 31, 2020 and then St. Augustine Campus 10:00 a.m. (AST/Eastern passed at least two CAPE mously supporting the a Council/executive body facilitate questions. It Council Meeting | Caribbean) Units, one or two with matriculation proposal. 6 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

New laws needed to tackle fake news Call to

NEW legislation is nec- Harassment, it would be essary to charge persons a stretch to fit what we distribute who create social media are talking about under posts bearing fake infor- this Act, and again the mation aimed at deceiv- penalties under it would ing and misleading the be minor. I looked also at vaccines fairly public. the Public Order Act Defence attorney and it would be very dif- “THESE life-saving the beginning of a new Andrew Pilgrim said ficult to fit what we are vaccines should not be phase of our COVID re- under the current talking about here in a privilege for the few, sponse,” said the PAHO Computer Misuse Act, terms of using fake news but a right for all,” says head. persons could not be to ‘mislead and deceive’, Dr Carissa F. Etienne, Explaining that many criminally charged for which could bring Director of the Pan more countries are ex- creating and sending out down a government, be- American Health pected to receive their des- fake news. cause these things are Organisation (PAHO). ignated amounts, totalling Using the recent video real and serious and they During her recently 28.7 million, from now which had implied the are real threats, but I press briefing, Dr Etienne, through May 2021 from Governor General had do not think that they who is also the Regional COVAX, Dr Etienne noted not truly taken the are threats in the way Director for the Americas that there is still an ex- AstraZeneca vaccine, he the Computer Misuse of the World Health pected shortage for much said this and similar Act contemplates,” he Organisation (WHO), con- of the year. videos were neither ob- said. tended that there are not “Manufacturers are scene, threatening nor Speaking on the recent enough COVID-19 vac- working around the clock menacing, but could “The People’s Business” cines to go around at the to produce more doses, significantly mislead or programme, he stated moment, and the limited and new vaccine candi- deceive. while there is a civil lia- amounts that are avail- dates are being reviewed “So in my view, the bility for misleading a able are not being distrib- and included in the WHO Computer Misuse Act person, he explained that uted equitably. Emergency Use Listing, performs a vital role and under the current legisla- “Throughout the pan- so more vaccines will that role is to protect us tion, a criminal charge demic, every country in hopefully be available from indecent, obscene could not be made under the world has grappled soon. threats and those type the Computer Misuse with shortages of essen- But we expect the world of things, but there is a Act. tial medical supplies like will continue to face a lacuna in the law and “If you charge my client medicines, diagnostic shortage of vaccines for it is not been properly under the Computer tests, personal protective much of 2021,” she ex- addressed yet and that is Misuse Act, I think I will equipment, even oxygen. plained. because this is new. get him off and if you Defence attorney Andrew Pilgrim. We face the same chal- Despite being the epi- A lot of us have not had to charge him under the lenge with vaccines,” said centre of the pandemic, deal with this issue of Minor Offences, I will get the Public Order Act ei- I think it is something Etienne. the region of the Americas fake news… him off or he would plead ther. worthy of our attention The PAHO head ex- lags in vaccination efforts “Fake news is not guilty and get such a “This problem is not because we do not want plained that as long as because most countries really addressed by the minor sentence that it just for Barbados, but in- people to deliberately de- COVID-19 endures in one cannot access the doses Computer Misuse Act. would not be worth your ternationally and we are ceive and mislead mem- part of the world, the rest they need through bilat- Under the Minor time; and I do not think going to have to search bers of the public,” of the world can never be eral agreements with the Offences Act under you will get him under around for solutions, but Pilgrim continued. safe and the longer the manufacturers. PAHO be- virus is allowed to spread, lieves that expanding eq- the greater the risk that uitable access to COVID more dangerous variants vaccines in the Americas emerge, which could com- must be a global priority. Shipping community welcomes plicate control efforts.The Dr Etienne reassured director reiterated her the region that PAHO is point that it is vital to ac- committed to ensuring celerate access to vaccine that our region receives new system at Bridgetown Port doses for all countries, not the doses we need as just the ones with the quickly as possible. She THE local shipping Standby Facility Project. Kirk Humphrey and venience of being able to most money. however urged member community is looking “Based on what we Chairman of the do business in one space. “Wealthy countries are states to have the neces- forward to the implemen- know of PCS systems,we Barbados Port Inc. Peter “Certainly, we expect rolling out vaccines, while sary legislation signed in tation of the Port hope to benefit from Odle, that they also antic- the coming of the PCS to many nations have yet to order to approve the Community System at fewer and more simpli- ipate better access to translate into more stan- receive a single dose. This COVAX contracts, and to the Bridgetown Port, fied processes, especially delivery confirmations as dardised systems,; more disparity harms our prin- ensure that they have the with a spokesperson for as it relates to documen- it relates to gate passes efficient and effective ciples of solidarity. But proper regulations in the group saying that it tation; better information and gate movements and communication flows be- more than that, it is a self- place and make their pay- should bring long over- flow resulting in faster access to un-stuffing tal- tween stakeholders; and defeating strategy,” she ments. due efficiencies and value turnaround times; en- lies. importantly, costs sav- argued. “We urge our Member to the industry. hanced cargo visibility Moreover, he said they ings for all the users, Dr Etienne gave an States to make this a pri- President of the through cargo tracking; also expect that there along with better infor- update of the vaccine ority so they can receive Transport Inter- real time status informa- would be more availabil- mation flows to both our situation in the region, these long-awaited doses. mediaries of Barbados, tion – namely the status ity of data, for trade and customers and our princi- highlighting that while 93 As more doses are pro- Norman Rice, was speak- of the container, their dis- marketing purposes, pals. This in turn will million people have re- duced, we will see several ing during the recent position, whether they including such things translate into making us ceived a COVID-19 vacci- waves of shipments arriv- virtual launch of are unstuffed or not, the as the ports of origin a more competitive port nation in the Americas, ing in the region every the Barbados Port location of LCL cargo in for cargo and cargo vol- for doing business and Columbia was the first month. In the short Community System the shed [and] faster umes. will generally result in country to receive a term, doses will remain (PCS) Project. turnaround times in the more satisfied users,” COVAX Facility shipment limited. And we must That project is being shed through enhanced More convenient Rice said. of the Pfizer vaccine. use them wisely, prioritis- funded by the Barbados inventory management,” Making it clear that He made the point “The arrival of COVAX ing those most at risk, like Port Inc. in collaboration he stated. Transport Inter- while noting that modern vaccines in our region is a our health workers, the with the CARIFORUM/ Rice told those attend- mediaries of Barbados logistic supply chains historic milestone and the elderly and people living EU Economic Partner- ing the online launch, supports the implemen- demand efficiency at culmination of months of with pre-existing condi- ship Agreement and the which included Minister tation of the PCS, he said every step of the supply negotiations and a com- tions,” said the PAHO CARICOM Single of Maritime Affairs they are especially look- chain. mitment to global solidar- Director. Market and Economy and the Blue Economy, ing forward to the con- (JRT) ity.These first doses mark (AS) The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 7

Report: China, Egypt cement solidarity against COVID-19 CAIRO – As the first batch of COVID-19 vaccines provided by China for Egypt and Maintaining momentum of bilateral development the General Secretariat of Arab League Students arrived, the Arab world once again vaccines, saying that Egypt deeply appre- China and Egypt have joined hands to witnessed the determination of China ciates China’s help given that vaccines launch a central business district project to underpin international solidarity are currently limited worldwide, and in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital, not getting against the COVID-19 pandemic, and p this reflects the great friendship between with the 385-metre-high Iconic Tower romote the building of a global community the Egyptian and the Chinese people. hitting 300 metres recently. It’s expected of health for all. China’s experience in and the central to be the tallest building in Africa upon “[The] Chinese government has government’s capability of fighting the completion. enough decided to provide Egypt with a second pandemic in a country with the world’s On February 8, the signing ceremony batch of aid vaccines to continue largest population is unique and has for Egypt’s Alamein Downtown providing support in the fight against the inspired the world, the minister said. Towers Project between China State sleep epidemic,” Chinese Ambassador to Magdy Badran, a professor of virology Construction Engineering Corporation Egypt Liao Liqiang told an online press and member of the Egyptian Association (CSCEC) and the Egyptian Ministry conference on Monday. of Immunology,hailed China’s suggestion of Housing, Utilities and Urban LACK of sleep among children China is willing to strengthen vaccine for cooperation with developing countries Communities was held simultaneously and teenagers in China has wors- cooperation with Egypt, support interna- and stressed its vital role in combating in Cairo and Beijing. ened in the past decade, with tional solidarity against the COVID-19 and ending COVID-19 in the future. “This year marks the 65th anniversary more than 80 percent getting pandemic, and promote the building “Vaccines are the only hope to curb and of Egypt-China diplomatic ties. China and insufficient sleep on school of a global community of health for all, control the spread of the virus,” said Egypt should better strengthen their days, a report released on said Liao. Badran, adding the most important thing development strategies and promote coop- Monday said. On February 23, Liao and Egyptian is that they should be safe, effective, cheap eration within the framework of the Belt Chinese youngsters snoozed Assistant Health Minister for Financial and available, and the Chinese vaccines and Road Initiative,” Hussein Ismail, an average of 7.8 hours a night and Administrative Affairs Wael El are exactly so. deputy editor-in-chief of the Arabic on school days last year, 20 minutes Saaey held a handover ceremony at The Egyptian medical expert said that version of China Today magazine, told less than in 2009, according the Cairo International Airport upon he was deeply impressed by China’s Xinhua in a recent interview. to the report from the Chinese the arrival of the vaccines developed proposal of building a global community “Egypt welcomes more Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute by Sinopharm. of health for all, as the virus doesn’t enterprises to do business in Egypt of Psychology. On the same day, Egyptian Health differentiate between the poor and and make concerted efforts to further en- Researchers surveyed more than Minister Hala Zayed expressed gratitude rich, or developed and developing hance (the) comprehensive strategic 15 800 students from Henan, to China for its offer of COVID-19 countries. partnership with China,” he stressed. Hebei and Guangdong provinces from April to July, asking them what time they went to bed and woke up on days when they went to school. Only 46.4 percent slept for at least eight hours, compared with 47.4 percent in 2009, the report said. According to an action plan laying out measures to be taken from 2019 to 2030 to promote the health of citizens, primary school students are recommended to get a minimum of ten hours’ sleep a night. Nine hours is recommended for junior high school students and 8 hours for senior high school students. By those standards, more than 95 percent of students in primary schools, nearly 91 percent of those in junior high schools and 84 percent of students in senior high schools do not get enough sleep on school days, heightening the risk of them developing cognitive, mental and physical health problems, the report said. Hou Jinqin, a researcher at the National Institute of Education Sciences who co-authored the report, said local authorities should Workers transport a batch of China’s Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines in Cairo International Airport, Egypt, Feb. 23, 2021. implement measures suggested by the Ministry of Education, such as lessening academic burdens, postponing start times at school and encouraging children to enrol at Accusation against China’s vaccine export institutions closer to home so they can have more sleep. In terms of the COVID-19 epidemic’s impact on sleep, she said narrow-minded, says spokesperson research overseas had shown that BEIJING – The claim that China exports development and production, spokesper- China has advanced international school closures forced by the epidemic COVID-19 vaccines to expand geopoliti- son Guo Weimin told a press conference cooperation on vaccines to fight the had given young students studying at cal clout is narrow-minded, a spokesper- in Beijing. pandemic, showing its commitment to home an extra two hours of sleep son for the fourth session of the China has joined COVAX and is building a community with a shared a night. 13th National Committee of the Chinese actively promoting the fair distribution future for mankind, Guo said. In China some studies had revealed People’s Political Consultative of vaccines globally, Guo said, adding As COVID-19 cases continue to rage no marked differences in sleeping Conference said Wednesday. that as of the end of February, globally, China is willing to work with patterns of students before China has pledged to make vaccines China has provided vaccine aid to other countries and shoulder its and after schools reopened, global public goods, and has encouraged 69 countries and two international responsibility in protecting the safety she added. Chinese enterprises to cooperate with organisations and exported vaccines to and health of people around the world, relevant countries in vaccine research, 28 countries. Guo added. 8 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate ‘For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that I can do’ Editorial Khashoggi’s fiancee criticises lack of The new media action against Saudi crown prince TRADITIONAL media still hold a strong position ISTANBUL – The fiancee prince and rejected the re- justice is a long process, where he usually spent his due to its reliability and general accuracy.It is as- of slain Saudi journalist port’s findings. sometimes it is not easy.” time. sumed that established media houses take more Jamal Khashoggi said yes- While Washington im- In September, a Saudi time to fact-check their stories before publication, terday that world leaders posed sanctions on some of Hearing court jailed eight people for even if this is only done for fear of liability if un- should not maintain rela- those involved, it spared Cengiz was speaking after between seven and 20 true information is disseminated. At the same tions with a “murderer”, the crown prince himself. a court session of the trial years over the killing, in a time, the support of traditional media, print and after a US intelligence re- Hatice Cengiz, in absentia of 26 Saudi of- trial that critics said lacked television advertising, has taken a dip in popular- port implicated Saudi Khashoggi’s Turkish fi- ficials over Khashoggi’s transparency. None of the ity. Marketing professionals, however, still advise Arabia’s de facto ruler in ancee who was waiting out- killing, in which lawyer Ali defendants was named. their clients to use these options when seeking his killing. side the consulate when he Ceylan asked that the US Tensions between connections within certain demographics. Khashoggi, a critic of entered to retrieve docu- report be added to the case Turkey and Saudi Arabia Some people love the feel of a newspaper in their Saudi Crown Prince ments for their upcoming file. over Khashoggi’s killing hands just as some prefer to read hard copies of Mohammed bin Salman, marriage, said the report The judge said Ceylan have led to an informal books instead of using a kindle or other device. was last seen entering the was “a very huge and im- should file the request Saudi boycott of Turkish There is just something special about turning Saudi consulate in portant step” in the path to through the prosecutor and goods. Official data shows pages and being able to show it to a person sitting Istanbul on Oct. 2, 2018. justice, but must be acted Cengiz, who is named as a that Turkish exports to nearby. The same can be said for magazines that Turkish officials believe his on. complainant in the case, Saudi Arabia have fallen were previously only seen in small salons or bar- body was dismembered “That it was said there said they would apply for by more than 90%. bershops, and now have been removed because of and removed. His remains would be no sanctions Prince Mohammed to be Cengiz said she believed the risk of COVID-19 spread. have not been found. against the person who added as a defendant. justice would be served It is clear then, that social media and technology A US intelligence report gave the order for the crime The court heard Edip eventually. have been able to take over a large portion of the released last Friday said to be committed created a Yilmaz, a driver for the “Those in power need to traditional media business. Of course, traditional Prince Mohammed had ap- strange dilemma in every- Saudi consulate, say that take action,” she said. media houses will not allow themselves to be left proved the operation to kill one’s minds. But this could on the day of the killing he “Otherwise they will build behind, as they too seek to use the tools provided or capture Khashoggi in change in the coming was told by the head of se- their policies in the short to by social media with applications such as the pop- Oct. 2018. The Saudi gov- days,” she told Reuters in curity that for 20 minutes medium term based on a ular Facebook and Instagram along with Twitter. ernment has denied any in- an interview. he should not leave a con- relation with someone who This allows for a wider range of persons to have ac- volvement by the crown “The process of seeking sulate basement room is proved to be a murderer.” cess to news as well as their advertising content, and gives advertisers more bang for their buck. It is difficult, however, for persons who are not in the industry to understand how powerful social UN seeks access to Ethiopia’s media is and how it has changed the business forever. For news, there is a fine balance to maintain by only sharing critical pieces of information instantly Tigray for war crimes probe but retaining the bulk of content until it can be GENEVA – The United began in early November. fighting has continued in hospitals in east Tigray be- properly verified.Whereas for advertising, the con- Nations’ human rights Relief agencies had also some areas, according to tween December and tent can be viewed by multiple people without chief asked Ethiopia yes- struggled for access, while people in Tigray and UN January, with indications them having to search for it since they peruse their terday to allow monitors communications were assessments. of many more unreported. social media daily. into Tigray to investigate patchy. “Reliable sources have Not only is social media useful for news and ad- reports of killings and sex- “Serious violations of in- Massacres shared information about vertising but its original use, social networking, is ual violence that may ternational law, possibly “Deeply distressing the killing of eight protes- still relevant. Social media has created unorthodox amount to war crimes in amounting to war crimes reports of sexual and tors by security forces be- avenues through which persons can earn revenue. the northern region since and crimes against hu- gender-based violence, ex- tween 9 and 10 February People can use their personality to create enter- late 2020. manity, may have been trajudicial killings, wide- in Adigrat, Mekelle, Shire taining characters on the internet which can “Victims and survivors committed by multiple ac- spread destruction and and Wukro,” the statement launch successful careers in the arts and even in of these violations must tors in the conflict,” looting of public and pri- added. business. For people with just the right personal- not be denied their rights Bachelet added, mention- vate property by all par- Indiscriminate shelling ity, these media applications are a dream come to the truth and to justice,” ing Ethiopia’s army, the ties continue to be shared occurred in November in true. Examples of this can be seen in the “Last Michelle Bachelet said in a TPLF, Eritrea’s military, with us,” Bachelet said. Mekelle, Humera and Black Unicorn” who visited Barbados during the statement, expressing her and troops and militia President Isaias Adigrat, while mass 2020 holiday season to the delight and confusion fear that violations could from the neighbouring Afwerki’s government in killings had been reported of many. This eye-catching character dressed in a continue without outside Amhara region. Asmara has in the past de- in Axum and Dengelat, the shiny, black unicorn costume complete with stylish scrutiny. Abiy’s government, the nied any involvement, UN rights boss said. hoofs caught the attention of many Barbadians Fighting between Prime Tigray administration, the while the Abiy administra- Amnesty International when he was spotted dining at a local hotel. Minister Abiy Ahmed’s TPLF, as well as authori- tion in Addis Ababa has re- last week accused Eri- Subsequently, some local businesses have sought federal troops and forces ties in Amhara and peatedly said it is restor- trean forces of killing hun- to use his now popular image to advertise them- of the region’s former rul- Eritrea, did not immedi- ing law and order. dreds of civilians over 24 selves hoping to profit off of some of the attention ing party, the Tigray ately respond to requests Abiy’s office said in a hours in Axum city last which he has gained. Barbados has also seen en- People’s Liberation Front for comment on the UN statement on Wednesday year. Eritrea denied that, tertainers such as ‘Porgie and Murda’ and ‘Lord (TPLF), has killed thou- statement. that it would investigate but Ethiopia’s rights Zenn’ who were able to use their comedy to launch sands of people, forced With witness accounts of credible allegations of body also described such successful careers in the arts and to generate in- hundreds of thousands atrocities including rape, abuses and bring perpe- killings,though with fewer come. The latest addition to the scene is the relat- from their homes and hit looting and massacres trators to account. The details, in a rare acknow- able episodes of ‘Bev and Eudora’ which spread infrastructure badly. emerging from refugees state-appointed national ledgement from the quickly around the island cementing its popular Until this month, the and others, the warring human rights commission Ethiopian side that catchphrase into the vocabulary of Barbadians. mountainous region of sides have been repeatedly was also investigating and Eritrean troops have par- As much as change is disliked, it is still inevitable about five million people – blaming each other. was willing to collaborate ticipated in the conflict. and we must continue to embrace social media as with a long history of con- Abiy declared victory with relevant UN agen- Hundreds of civilians it evolves. More Barbadians should take advantage flict including war with when the TPLF aban- cies, it said. were also massacred in of the opportunities which social media offers.We neighbouring Eritrea – doned the regional capital Bachelet’s statement Mai Kadra town early in are people filled with colourful personalities which had been off-limits for Mekelle at the end of said more than 136 rape the fighting last Novem- the world would be lucky to see more of. There is most media since fighting November.But lower-level cases had been reported in ber, rights groups say. always space for new-comers, especially when the content provided can give the viewer a reason to Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes smile during difficult times. E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook @thebarba- Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan dosadvocate and Instagram @barbadosadvocate. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: [email protected] We need to act now to protect Caribbean children, young people WE, Caribbean Pedia- COVID-19 control meas- – Dr Asha Pemberton, help consumers make in- tricians supported by the ures and related economic Pediatrician and Chair formed decisions about Healthy Caribbean Coali- and food security chal- of the Planning their foods; and banning straight from the chest tion community are deeply lenges, including interrup- Committee of the First the marketing and sale of concerned about the health tions in national school Caribbean Congress on unhealthy products in and going efforts to shape portive spaces for discus- and wellness of our region’s meal programmes, have re- Adolescent Health around schools while si- healthy environments for sions on these issues. children and young people. sulted in childhood under- (2019, Trinidad and multaneously ensuring our children and young Paediatricians and Since the onset of the nutrition across the region. Tobago) that children have ongoing people. This includes halt- health care providers COVID-19 pandemic the This pandemic’s exacer- access to fruits and vegeta- ing targeted marketing of working with children and lives of our children and bation of poor diets and Address obesity, under- bles. Access to these foods unhealthy products on dig- young people, we urge you young people have been physical inactivity has also nutrition, mental health should be equitable and ital platforms especially to continue to educate your turned upside down; the been accompanied by an For the past year we have sustainable; the most vul- now when children are patients, parents and their way that they learn, so- alarming rise in mental been living in the surreal nerable, specifically those spending inordinate children, about the impor- cialise, play, eat, move and health issues such as anx- reality of this pandemic, suffering from malnutri- amounts of times on tance of healthy, balanced sleep has changed, and iety, depression, tic disor- doing our collective best to tion, should have ensured screens. eating, physical activity these changes are having a ders, disrupted sleeping manage the sustained eco- access. Civil Society is a critical with less focus on weight substantial impact on their and disordered eating be- nomic, social and mental We are also calling on actor and should continue only and rather on healthy physical and mental haviours heralding poten- stresses.The toll of this cri- governments to invest in to advocate for protective lifestyles being adopted. health. We believe that we tial eating disorders sis on our most vulnerable school-based interventions nutrition policies such as Screening consistently for are on the cusp of a re- among children and young – our children and young that focus on ensuring that front of package nutrition depressive and anxious gional childhood obesity people. This silent mental people – is yet to be fully physical activity opportu- warning labelling, banning symptoms and other men- and mental health emer- health crisis can no longer understood. We cannot af- nities, good nutrition, the sale and marketing of tal health concerns is crit- gency. be overlooked. Children ford to wait until ‘things specifically provision of un- unhealthy foods and bever- ical at this time; this Many children are con- and young people are try- get back to normal’ and as- interrupted nutritious ages in schools, and com- screening will allow chil- suming excessive empty ing to cope and navigate sume that our children and school meals, and mental munity-based interven- dren and adolescents an calories while attending this new reality and they young people will emerge health support are corner- tions (including school- opportunity to share how online school from home. need us, as a community,to as ‘resilient’ creatures or stones within a school envi- based interventions) that they are feeling especially In some cases, they are ex- create safe spaces to listen that the damage caused to ronment. Within the com- will support safe physical if they are having difficult posed to unstructured to their concerns and not them during the pandemic munity,there also needs to activity opportunities, in- times coping. Remember, eating and oftentimes un- disregard them. COVID-19 can be undone. We must be a greater investment in creased access and con- children and young people restricted access to foods, has shed a light on the come together now to ad- mental health services and sumption of local fruits and require unique care. leading to overconsump- need for more structured, dress this regional child- support for young people. vegetables.All efforts need Lastly, next time any of tion of foods high in salt, school-based and commu- hood obesity, undernutri- Relatedly, parenting pro- to be made to destigmatize us sees a child or young sugar, and fat. In addition, nity-based mental health tion, and mental health grammes need to be devel- and prioritise mental person, we need to ask the shift to online schooling services across the region, emergency.If we allow lev- oped or expanded to health. them, how they’re doing coupled with pandemic- in particular, appropriate els of malnutrition to con- ensure that children from Youth advocates, remem- and really listen to them. related restrictions have services to support the tinue to rise unchecked, we vulnerable families get the ber, your voice is powerful. Ask them how we can help resulted in the reduction unique mental health are assigning an entire appropriate support and Continue to demand them be the healthiest ver- or elimination of physical needs of children and generation to a life living protection needed. healthy environments for sion of themselves. Their education, extracurricular young people. The mental with NCDs and other “…Now more than ever, you and your peers.Among voices are monumental in activities, reduced recre- health of children and health complications.If we we need to act urgently.We your peers, create spaces determining how we can ational playtime and sig- young people need to be a do not address their men- have to move quickly to put to discuss how you are feel- create and ensure that sus- nificant jumps in screen priority. tal health, we run the very people before profits and ing, normalise this. You tainable change is imple- time “…As we continue to nav- real risk of developing last- implement strong nutrition have a right to these mented to mitigate this cri- Now more than ever,our igate global changes, we ing scars that could impact policies and mental health healthy environments and sis. children and young people must find the regional their growth, future pro- support systems to support safe spaces. We know what we need are eating more and mov- strength to address the im- ductivity and quality of life. our children and young Parents and guardians, to do, let us work together ing less. These behaviours pact of the Pandemic on our We can and need to put people.As a society, it is our we acknowledge that your and act now to protect our have likely exacerbated the children and youth; specif- measures in place to miti- responsibility.” worlds have also been future. childhood overweight and ically the adverse effects on gate this crisis and a whole Professor Anne St. turned upside down, how- Signed by Caribbean obesity crisis. Since the their mental health, access of society approach will be John, Pediatrician and ever, we need to do every- Paediatricians, the pandemic, more and more to equitable education as critical – everyone has to Medical Director thing we can to protect our Paediatric Association of children and young people well as nutrition and rates act now. for Youth Health Heart children; their health and Jamaica, and the Healthy are presenting with over- of physical activity.The op- Governments, we need with the Heart and wellness have to be our pri- Caribbean Coalition com- weight and obesity and portunity is now, for us to be you to prioritise strong Stroke Foundation of ority.With this, eat well to- munity including the Heart have been diagnosed with proactive and systematic to policies that protect the Barbados (Barbados) gether,be active and make and Stroke Foundation of type 2 diabetes, hyperten- support child and adoles- health of our children and memories together,and ed- Barbados (HSFB), Heart sion, musculoskeletal is- cent health, to secure a re- young people including: All hands on deck ucate yourself about men- Foundation of Jamaica sues, and other endocrine silience, productive and front of package nutrition Private sector should be tal health and wellness (HFJ), and Healthy conditions. Additionally, positive Caribbean future.” warning labelling that will partners in supporting on- and create open and sup- Caribbean Youth (HCY).

LET GOD QUOTES FOR TODAY WORDS OF SPEAK TO US WISDOM Whitney M. Young Jr (1921–1971) Dizzy Gillespie “Fear not, for I am with you; American civil rights leader. (1917–1993º be not dismayed, for I am your “Stretch your mind and fly.” US American jazz trum- CONFIDENCE God; I will strengthen you, I peter, bandleader, composer, will help you, I will uphold you educator and singer If you don’t have with my righteous right hand.” “Be as you are and hope that confidence, you’ll always – Isaiah 41:10 it’s right.” find a way not to win. 10 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

A look at online payment options in Barbados

THE pandemic has changed the ices online. Most shoppers are goods and services using their Barbados, users will have re- software launched in way people spend their time and expected to visit the business Barbadian bank or credit union strictions. With international Barbados in the summer of their money.It has increased on- and pay by cash or debit/credit account. But what challenges online payment systems, people 2020. line spending and expanded card. are Barbadians still facing with need to have an account and the The company, which operates global e-commerce. In Barbados, e-commerce systems? setup can take some time. in Jamaica, Trinidad and financial institutions are mar- The death of Indigenous PayPal clients may also experi- Tobago, and other Caribbean keting online banking more and Integrated Payment Small entrepreneurs ence the holding of funds or de- territories, has provided small transitioning from a basic debit Processing System are left out lays in transfers of monies. entrepreneurs with an opportu- card to a hybrid debit credit card CarIFS or Caribbean Integrated For businesses which indeed Also, many small entrepre- nity to expand their operation using VISA or Mastercard to Financial Services Inc. was a have an online store, it will neurs do not have bank accounts and payment collecting capabil- connect Barbadians to global Barbados-based ABM-network mean more business opportuni- and they will need to work with ities. merchants. provider.From 2006, it recorded ties and transactions, but busi- brokers or shipping companies The company stated that For the local shopper, there 3.5 million transactions through ness owners often find obstacles to set up accounts for them clients will be able to collect are more options to pay on web- its system, but it was abandoned when they want to transfer when conducting business over- payments through Face- sites like Amazon and eBay,but in 2020 for a new money to vendors, suppliers, or seas. book, Instagram, Whats- for local e-commerce, there are VISA/MasterCard ATM system, purchase large quantities of raw App, or Twitter. Also, significant limitations. Many which will work with the five materials or stock. Commercial Regional online they have an option of accept- Barbadian businesses do not commercial banks and two banks still maintain control of payment companies could ing payments via email, have online stores or mobile major credit unions. large international transfers. be a solution website, cash vouchers, and apps and, if they do, they do not People who have debit credit Although the online payment WiPay is a Caribbean-based WiPay point-of-sale ter- facilitate buying goods or serv- cards will have the power to buy system, PayPal, is accessible in online payment processing minals. ‘Higher inflation temporary, no rate hikes in sight’

WASHINGTON — Federal government bonds. Some ana- going to movies or eating out, Reserve Chair Jerome lysts argue that the Fed could they will have find many of Powell suggested Thursday focus more of those purchases their former favorite haunts that inflation will pick up in on the 10-year Treasury to keep closed. the coming months but that it from rising much further. Once price declines that oc- it would likely prove tempo- The surge in Treasury bond curred about a year ago when rary and not enough for the yields has also forced up mort- the pandemic began are re- Fed to alter its record-low gage rates. Last week, the aver- moved from the year-over-year interest rate policies. age rate on the benchmark 30- calculations, inflation will tem- His message of wait-and-see year mortgage breached the 3% porarily rise. But the Fed won’t patience caused bond yields to mark for the first time since see either of those trends as jump and stocks to fall further, July, according to mortgage worrisome increases that would signaling that investors foresee buyer Freddie Mac. force them to change their poli- stronger growth and higher in- Powell suggested, though, cies,Powell said. flation on the horizon.The yield that the Fed would sit tight for “If we do see what we believe on the 10-year Treasury note the foreseeable future. is likely a transitory increase in had jumped from below 1% at “We think our current policy inflation, where longer-term in- the end of last year to roughly stance is appropriate,” Powell flation expectations are broadly 1.4% Wednesday — and then said. stable, I expect that we will be surged above 1.5% during Earlier this week, San patient” about making any Powell’s remarks. Francisco Fed President Mary changes, he said. In this Dec. 1, 2020 file photo, Chairman of the Federal Stock investors, too, dumped Daly and Chicago Fed President Higher inflation is unlikely to Reserve Jerome Powell appears before the Senate Banking shares in the midst of Powell’s Charles Evans said they persist, Powell said, because Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington. remarks, in which he suggested weren’t bothered by the move most consumers and businesses that the Fed would need to see higher in interest rates. They expect mild prices gains, and both a near-full recovery in the characterized it as a positive therefore will keep their prices US jobless claims tick up to job market and a sustained rise signal that markets expected and wage demands in check. in inflation above its target level growth to pick up. Global competition and online 745,000 as layoffs remain high before considering a rate hike. Powell said Thursday that the shopping also force many com- The S&P 500 index shed 2% of last week’s jump in yields “was panies to keep prices low — fac- WASHINGTON – The number unemployment benefits. its value Thursday afternoon notable and caught my atten- tors that didn’t exist during the of Americans applying for un- Counting supplemental federal and slid into the red for the year. tion.” But he said the Fed high-inflation 1970s. employment benefits edged unemployment programs that The tech-heavy Nasdaq pulled wouldn’t be concerned unless When the pandemic intensi- higher last week to 745,000, a were established to soften the back 2.8%. Higher yields on gov- the Treasury market became fied nearly a year ago, the Fed sign that many employers con- economic damage from the virus, ernment bonds can entice some “disorderly” or rates rose per- pegged its short-term interest tinue to cut jobs despite a drop in an estimated 18 million people investors to sell stocks and buy sistently enough to threaten the rate to near zero and began pur- confirmed viral infections and are collecting some form of job- Treasurys instead, thereby forc- economy’s growth. chasing $120 billion in Treasury evidence that the overall econ- less aid. ing stock prices down. As the economy reopens in and mortgage bonds a month. omy is improving. Restrictions on businesses and Powell also said the outlook the coming months with vac- The Fed has previously signaled Thursday’s report from the the reluctance of many for the economy has improved cines more widely distributed, that it intends to keep its rate Labor Department showed that Americans to shop, travel, dine after three months of weak job many economists expect a near zero through at least 2023. jobless claims rose by 9,000 from out or attend mass events have growth. But he cautioned that spending boom that will stretch And many analysts say they the previous week. Though the weighed persistently on the job the economy and the job market available supplies of goods and think the bond purchases won’t pace of layoffs has eased since market. Job growth averaged a are still far from fully recovered services.That additional spend- be tapered until next year. the year began, they remain meager 29,000 a month from and that full employment would ing could send prices up in some Powell declined to comment high by historical standards. November through January,and not be achieved this year. sectors of the economy. on whether the brighter-than- Before the virus flattened the the nation still has nearly 10 The chairman also offered no For example, gas prices have expected economic outlook has US economy a year ago, applica- million fewer jobs than it did in signal that the Fed might re- been rising as Americans are altered any of the Fed’s time- tions for unemployment aid had February 2020. Though the un- spond soon to rising rates on venturing out more.Yet oil pro- lines. But he did say he shared never topped 700,000 in any employment rate was 6.3% in Treasury securities by altering duction hasn’t yet caught up, some of that optimism. week, even during the Great January,a broader measure that its bond-buying policies. The making gas more expensive. “There’s good reason to expect Recession. includes people who have given central bank is purchasing And when Americans do return job creation to pick up in the All told, 4.3 million Americans up on their job searches is closer about $80 billion a month in to pre-pandemic habits, such as coming months,” he said. are receiving traditional state to 10%. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 11

IFAD launches second edition of innovative award with collaboration of IICA

SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA – The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the United Nations agency for rural devel- opment, launched today the Second Edition of the Rural Youth Innovation Award in Latin America and the Caribbean, an initia- tive supported by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). The goal of the competi- tion is to identify and re- ward innovative youth- driven initiatives that contribute to overcoming the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in rural areas of the region. Rossana Polastri, IFAD The event featured the participation of the Minister of Science, Technology and Telecommunications of Costa Rica, Paola Vega; Regional Director for the Vice-Minister of Agriculture of Costa Rica, Laura Pacheco Ovares; IFAD's Regional Director for Latin America and the Latin America and the Caribbean, Rossana Polastri; and the Director General of IICA, Manuel Otero, as well as other authorities of the International Caribbean, explained the Fund. crucial importance of rural youth for the United the youth of the Americas and fertilizers based on or- evaluated by a committee and Knowledge of IFAD's and activities geared di- Nations agency. are a fundamental piece ganic waste in Mexico, comprising technicians Division for Latin rectly towards youth and "Investing in the rural to ensure that the innova- thus creating a circular and experts from agencies America and the rural development in their youth is essential to en- tion that our agriculture economy with zero waste of the United Nations, Caribbean, based in region. For more informa- sure a dynamic economic so direly needs reaches while reducing CO2 emis- civil society organizations Brasilia. The Award is tion about the Award and growth, which will make the fields, thus unleash- sions. Another example is working in the field of part of IFAD and IICA's / or to submit your initia- rural communities pros- ing the potential of our the Libertat group, which rural development, and efforts to increase the tive, visit: www.premio- perous, inclusive and sus- continent to be the guar- since 2018 provides finan- private companies. The number of components jovenrural.org. tainable places, where no antor of world food secu- cial education to small initiatives presented will one is left behind and rity, a challenge that un- rural producers in be selected and given their BANK RATES where the impacts of cli- doubtedly needs new lead- Colombia, either in person respective awards based mate change do not make erships and a renewed vi- or remotely, with no aca- on criteria such as the de- Commercial bank rates to the public at the close of life and agricultural pro- sion of agriculture and ru- demic prerequisites. gree of innovation; the business yesterday by the Central Bank of Barbados. duction impossible”. rality”, he added. The recipients have ability to overcome the Polastri affirmed that The launch of the benefited from cash challenges brought about Valid for March 5, 2021 “in times of change, young Second Edition of the prizes, equipment, media by COVID-19 in rural Notes: people play a fundamen- Rural Youth Innovation coverage and professional areas; the possibility of ex- Currency Buying Selling tal role, as they are more Award took place at IICA training in various areas, panding / replicating the Belizean Dollar 1.00000 1.00000 willing to take risks and headquarters in San José, and were able to engage initiative in other coun- Canadian Dollar 1.55568 1.60169 adopt new technologies, Costa Rica, in an event in a process of exchange tries in the region; the pos- East Caribbean $ 0.73704 0.74445 thus multiplying the pos- that was attended by of experiences and initia- itive impact on vulnerable Euro 2.34473 2.44347 sible benefits of invest- Otero and various tives. or historically excluded Pound Sterling 2.72023 2.83477 ments in favor of food se- Government representa- Registration for the sec- groups, especially women; United States Dollar 1.98000 2.02857 curity, poverty reduction tives of the country. ond edition of the Rural and their ability to coun- Demand/Sight: and the generation of em- The success of the First Youth Innovation Award terbalance isolation and Currency Buying Selling Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 ployment, peace and po- Edition of the Rural Youth in Latin America and the connect people. Canadian Dollar 1.56454 1.60029 litical stability. The rural Innovation Award in Caribbean will be open A total of 10 projects – 2 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 sector and family farming Latin America and the until Sunday, April 4. per category – will be rec- Euro 2.37914 2.42830 need the youth for their Caribbean encouraged Applications will be ac- ognized in June 2021.The Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 transformation, and it is IFAD to organize this sec- cepted from young people winning initiatives will be Pound Sterling 2.76014 2.81718 they who must decide the ond installment. Last between 18 and 35 years showcased in the various United States Dollar 1.99000 2.02768 direction of this new year, the first edition of old, nationals or residents communication channels Telegraphic Transfer path”. the award sought to boost of the LAC region, who of the Award and of IFAD, Currency Buying Selling Manuel Otero, Director and strengthen the capac- compete with a project to provide them with visi- Belizean Dollar 0.99688 1.00313 General of IICA, stated ities of rural youth in the that is already imple- bility and encourage repli- Canadian Dollar 1.56750 1.60029 East Caribbean Dollar 0.73843 0.74306 that in Latin America and region and promote the mented and within any of cation in other Latin Euro 2.38361 2.42830 the Caribbean, young peo- opportunities generated the following categories: American and Caribbean Guyana Dollar 0.00942 0.00948 ple represent a demo- by young people who are countries. In addition, the Pound Sterling 2.76533 2.81718 graphic bonus whose pro- changing the rural world. • Financial inclusion winners will have access United States Dollar 1.99375 2.02768 tagonism and positive vi- IFAD received almost • Recycling and alterna- to international training sion “can lead to a new, eq- 600 nominations from tive energy and financial resources INDICATIVE RATES FOR SOME REGIONAL uitable, sustainable and across the region, and se- • Connectivity solutions provided by private com- CURRENCIES AS ADVISED BY THE inclusive agriculture”, lected ten innovative ini- • Empowerment of panies sponsoring the RESPECTIVE CENTRAL BANKS which will open up a wide tiatives by rural youth, in- women and gender inclu- event. N.B.: These rates are not meant to be used for trading. range of opportunities in cluding, for example, the sion The Rural Youth BDS$ Guyana Dollar 0.00945 the rural areas of the re- Hexa Biotec group project, • Marketing solutions and Innovation Award is an Jamaica Dollar 0.01332 gion. which is producing food market access initiative of the Center for T&T Dollar 0.29756 “As agents of change, supplements for animals The initiatives will be South-South Cooperation 12 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline

March 5, 2021 Deposit Receipts

There was no trading today on the Regular Market. Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $20.15 $20.05 -$0.10

Fixed Income Market Security Volume GOB SERIES B 40, 543.93

BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Thursday March 4, 2021 INDICES LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE March 4, 2021 March 3, 2021 Local 2,437.87 2,437.98 0.11 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 - $3.10 - 70 - Composite 594.08 594.11 0.03 MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - March 4, 2021 March 3, 2021 Local 4,900.31 4,900.53 0.22 Barbados Farms Limited 22-Jan-21 - - - $0.40 $0.40 - $0.35 $0.40 1,000 6,561 Cross-list 119.19 119.19 - Composite 5,019.50 5,019.72 0.22 Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 28-Jan-21 - - - $4.10 $4.10 - $4.00 $4.10 72 1,100 MUTUAL FUND FirstCaribbean International Bank 24-Feb-21 - - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $1.80 - 14,251 March 4, 2021 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 19-Feb-21 - - - $0.16 $0.16 - - $0.16 - 5,066 CHANGE - Dev Fund 26-Feb-21 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.1991 -0.0118 26-Feb-21 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2578 -0.0003 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 26-Feb-21 - - - $0.56 $0.56 - $0.55 $0.57 1,600 1,000 26-Feb-21 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6720 -0.0003 -Value Fund 26-Feb-21 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 6.5878 6.5878 6.5878 -0.0718 26-Feb-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.0934 -0.0041 Goddard Enterprises Limited 22-Feb-21 - - - $2.10 $2.10 - $2.10 $2.15 17,805 8,856 26-Feb-21 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0191 -0.0019 31-Jan-21 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.5698 5.5698 5.4584 -0.0020 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 23-Feb-21 - - - $2.00 $2.00 - $1.78 $2.00 78 22,200 31-Jan-21 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND m 1.0241 1.0241 1.0036 0.0000 31-Jan-21 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUND m 1.6429 1.6429 1.6100 -0.0006 One Caribbean Media Limited 18-Feb-21 - - $1.80 $1.80 - - $2.20 - 1000 26-Feb-21 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.75 -0.02 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 26-Feb-21 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.67 -0.03 26-Feb-21 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.98 0.00 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE West India Biscuit Company Limited 03-Mar--21 - - - $31.25 $31.25 - $31.25 - 2700 - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. Emera Deposit Receipt 14-Aug-20 - - - $20.15 $20.05 -$0.10 $30.00 - 50 - m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly

TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD - Fixed Income Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask Date Close Close Price Price Size Size * = Security is Trading X-Div GOB Series B 04-Mar-21 $60.00 $60.00 $60.00 $80.00 29,185 34,828 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 - - - - *+* = Security is Suspended GOB Series F 03-Nov-20 $89.00 $89.00 - --- ** = Rights Issued GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 - $70.00 - 19,617 NOTICES NEWS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS Stocks turn lower FirstCaribbean International Bank - Directors have fixed February 1st, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on March 12th, 2021. The meeting can be accessed virtually here: https://web.lumiagm.com/286-507-132. Shareholders who wish to attend the annual meeting must contact as bond yields FirstCaribbean International Bank by March 10, 2021 at [email protected] to obtain the Meeting ID and Password to join the meeting.

Emera Incorporated - Directors have fixed March 22nd, 2021 as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to continue their receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company which will be held on May 20th, 2021. BICO Limited – Notice is hereby given that the One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Annual General Meeting of the shareholders of BICO upward march Limited is scheduled to take place on April 13th, 2021 at the Company’s registered address: Harbor Industrial Park, Bridgetown, BB11145 at 5:00 p.m. STOCKS turned lower on up in the coming months. BSE NOTICES Wall Street Thursday as He cautioned that the in- COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE bond yields made another crease will be temporary, Kindly note that effective February 26th, 2021, the offices of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central upward spike, renewing and won’t be enough for the Securities Depository Inc. (BCSDI) remain closed in accordance with the recommendations contained in Directive No. 5 issued by the pressure on high-flying Fed to alter its low-interest Government of Barbados for the period March 1st, 2021 to March 14th, 2021. technology stocks. rate policies. The S&P 500 was down As the economy reopens Kindly note, however, that while our physical offices will be closed, all trading, clearing and settlement operations will remain fully operational as staff will all be working remotely during this period. While our offices are closed, we remain easily accessible via email. 2% as of 2:11 p.m. Eastern this spring and summer, For Stock Exchange related queries, kindly email us at [email protected] and for Shareholder related queries contact us at time, giving up an early gain and vaccines are distributed [email protected]. and sliding into the red for and the coronavirus re- the year. The tech-heavy treats, many economists ex- We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding and trust that all and sundry remain safe during this time. Nasdaq pulled back 2.8%. pect a spending boom that TRADING SUSPENSION The Dow Jones Industrial will stretch available sup- The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section Average fell 553 points, or plies of goods and services. 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were 1.7%, to 30,726. Small-com- That will likely push up suspended effective December 10th, 2019. pany stocks fell even more. prices, Powell said. The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section The losses came as the Powell gave no hint that 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited yield on the 10-year the Fed would take steps to were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. Treasury rose sharply dur- keep longer-term interest The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way ing a question-and-answer rates in check, such as by of Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor session with Federal shifting some of its $80 bil- Financial Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. Reserve Chair Jerome lion in monthly Treasury Powell during which Powell purchases to longer-term se- said inflation will likely pick curities. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 13

T&T Police Commissioner scores highly in performance survey COMMISSIONER of Police ing presence. 1, 281 respondents representa- Gary Griffith is sitting on an im- His visibility, though, was tive of T&T’s population. pressive 80 per cent approval seen as his highest-rated char- All respondents were also over rating. acteristic by respondents. 18 and not members of the The result was revealed in a Griffith scored 67 per cent in TTPS. poll commissioned by the Police representing the interests of the The data, collected between Service Commission ahead of its average citizen. That, however, January 23 and 30, found that a review of Griffith’s performance. was his lowest score. He scored whopping seven out of every 10 The online survey was con- a 69 per cent for his independ- people support the TTPS. ducted by international market ence. The older respondents were research and analytics consult- While Griffith’s approval rat- found to give the TTPS a higher ant Akilah Procope on behalf of ing was soaring, the rest of the rating. the PSC. It polled some 1,341 Trinidad and Tobago Police Police visibility, responsive- people over 18, omitting persons Service (TTPS) is also not doing ness, competency and profes- who were members of the too badly. sionalism were tested and Police Service, and was con- In a separate online survey, responsiveness received the low- ducted between January 23 and the service enjoyed a 59 per cent est rating at 40 per cent. The 30th. approval rating, with one in competency of the officers was Apart from his 80 per cent ap- every three people surveyed slightly higher at 46 per cent proval rating, Griffith scored having something positive to say while both courtesy profession- over 75 per cent in leading by about the TTPS. alism ratings tested at 50 per example, being accessible, per- These positive findings were cent. Police visibility earned the sonal integrity and command- the result of a survey that polled highest ranking at 64 per cent. T&T Commissioner of Police Gary Griffith.

Jamaica records Guyana says two 341 new Venezuelan COVID-19 cases, one fighter jets flew additional fatality over its airspace JAMAICA on Wednesday recorded one more COVID-19 GUYANA said on Wednesday community of Eteringbang and death, pushing the tally to night that two Venezuelan a nearby airstrip along the 436. fighter jets entered its air- countries shared border at a The deceased is a 97-year-old space, circling a community “very low altitude of 1500 feet” woman from Kingston and St on the countries’ shared on Tuesday at about 1:20 p.m. Andrew. border before returning to They circled once before flying One other fatality is being their own territory, though back into Venezuela, the state- probed, pushing that figure to Venezuela’s government dis- ment added. 53. puted the claim. The incident comes after a Meanwhile, there were 341 The incident is the latest in a Venezuelan navy vessel de- new cases with ages ranging long-running border conflict be- tained two vessels that were from 16 days to 89 years, push- tween the two South American fishing in Guyana’s Exclusive ing the total to 24,444 with nations. Economic Zone (EEZ) in 9,911 being active. Caracas says much of eastern January. President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro speaks during a press Of the new infections, 197 are Guyana is its own EEZs are maritime areas in conference at Miraflores Government Palace on March 12, males, 140 are females and four territory, a claim rejected by which countries have special 2020 in Caracas, Venezuela. cases are under investigation. Georgetown. The conflict has rights with regards to the explo- In the meantime, there were flared up in recent years as ration and use of marine re- says encompasses its EEZ and statement said. 124 more recoveries, increas- Guyana has started developing sources. its territorial waters. Venezuelan Foreign Minister ing the total to 13,869. oil reserves near the disputed Venezuelan President Nicolas “The Government of Guyana Jorge Arreaza in a Twitter post Some 275 persons are in hos- area. Maduro earlier this month is- condemns this latest act of ag- later on Wednesday described pital with 66 being moderately Guyana’s Foreign Ministry sued a decree creating a gression by the Venezuelan the flights as “regular border ill and 27 critically ill. said in a statement that two “Strategic Zone for the armed forces as a violation of patrol operations” by the armed Four persons are in govern- Venezuelan army Sukhoi SU 30 Development of the Atlantic the sovereignty of Guyana over forces that took place in “non- ment quarantine, while 19,811 fighter jets had flown over the Facade” in an area that Guyana the air above its territory,” the disputed territory.” are at home.

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

High Tide: 7:19 a.m. High tide: 8:13 p.m. New York: 11°C Yesterday: Nil Miami: 28°C Low Tide: 12:54 a.m. For the month: Nil Max: 28.7°C Toronto: 07°C Low tide: 1:45 p.m. For the year: 175.1 mm Min: 24.2°C Montreal: 00°C London: 07°C 6:12 a.m. 6:08 p.m. 14 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Coronavirus crisis in Latin America made worse by poverty, inequality, UN agency says

SANTIAGO – Latin poverty increased from America and the Carib- 7.8% to 11.3% of the popu- bean countries in the lation and poverty, from throes of the coronavirus 27.8% to 30.5%. crisis will only see their The report also said problems made worse by the prolonged closure festering inequality, of schools in the region poverty and an ailing so- could constitute a “genera- cial safety net, a United tional catastrophe” that Nations agency said yes- will only deepen inequal- terday. ity. The Economic Com- The pandemic has also mission for Latin America brought a rise in mortality and the Caribbean that could push down life (ECLAC) said social unrest expectancy in the region was on the rise across the depending how long the region, a sign that immedi- crisis endures, the agency ate action was necessary to said. aid hard-hit countries There have been at least struggling long before the 21,699,000 reported infec- pandemic hit. tions and 687,000 reported “The effects of the coron- People wait to receive a dose of Sinovac’s CoronaVac coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine at a deaths caused by the novel avirus pandemic have vaccination centre at La Florida area, in Santiago, Chile, February 18, 2021. coronavirus in Latin spread to all areas of America and the Carib- human life, altering the said, combined with a Urban slums on the necessary to confront the in the five years prior to bean so far. way we interact, paraly- sprawling informal labour fringes of many of the re- crisis. the crisis. Of every 100 infections sing economies and gener- market that leaves work- gion’s cities often lack ac- Poverty meanwhile, has During that period, last reported around the ating profound changes in ers without protection and cess to basic services, mean crept upward, while ad- Latin America and world, about 24 were re- societies,” the report said. a lack of effective health many citizens found them- vances in reducing in- Caribbean economies grew ported from countries in Persistently high levels care coverage have made selves unable to access equality have stagnated, an average of just 0.3% per Latin America and the of inequality, the agency those problems worse. food, water and healthcare exacerbating trends seen year overall, while extreme Caribbean. Cuba starts late stage trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidate in Havana HAVANA – Cuba has Rodriguez, 83, told begun late stage trials of Reuters after receiving its most advanced experi- her first shot at a clinic in mental COVID-19 vac- Old Havana. cine, edging closer to a As part of the trial, potential home-grown in- Rodriguez was not aware oculation that could help of whether she received the Caribbean island na- the vaccine or a placebo. tion contain infections and While Latin American ease its economic crisis. and Caribbean countries The country started this are largely competing week recruiting around with richer nations to ac- 44,000 volunteers in cess limited vaccine sup- Havana between the ages ply produced abroad, of 19 and 80 for its ran- Cuba has chosen to bet on domised, placebo-con- its own shots even as it trolled trial of the two- faces its worst outbreak shot vaccine in which since the start of the pan- some will receive a third demic. A police officer stands in front of a street in quarantine amid concerns about the spread of the coronavirus booster shot with another The daily number of disease (COVID-19) in Havana, Cuba, February 1, 2021. Cuban vaccine candidate. cases has quintupled over If the vaccine proves the past two months after in part to circumvent US imental vaccine intended Vaccine Institute that and Jamaica have already successful, Cuba has said Cuba opened borders late sanctions. for people who have recov- created Soberana 2, said expressed an interest in it would inoculate its last year and eased lock- Cuba said in January ered from COVID-19, says last month the country acquiring Soberana 2 entire population of 11 down restrictions. that late stage trials of it aims to vaccinate all in- had the technological ca- should it succeed. million with what would The country’s most ad- Soberana 2 would also habitants this year. pacity to produce around The large Phase III trial be the first COVID-19 vac- vanced experimental vac- take place in ally Iran, This could enable the 100 million doses this should be complete in cine developed and pro- cine is aptly named which is also under US cash-strapped country to year,“enough to satisfy in- November, with final re- duced in Latin America. Soberana (Sovereignty) 2, sanctions and dealing ease lockdown restrictions ternal demand and export sults available in January Cuba said it would also reflecting national pride with a higher infection and in particular kick- it.” 2022, according to Cuba’s export the vaccine and in Cuba’s relative self-re- rate. start the important Cuba could also use the official registry of clinical offer it to tourists. The liance in areas like health- The Cuban vaccine, like tourism sector, providing vaccine as part of a tech- trials. country has a long history care in spite of the crip- most of the current coron- some relief for an ailing nology transfer as it has in The country has said it of vaccine exports and pling decades-old US avirus shots, targets the state-run economy smart- the past, given a lack of expects later this month medical tourism. trade embargo. spike proteins on the out- ing under the former resources on the island to launch late stage trials “I feel very happy. I hope Late revolutionary side of the virus that it Trump administration’s that has spawned wide- of another homegrown this will have a good re- leader Fidel Castro over- uses to enter human cells. tightening of US sanc- spread shortages of medi- vaccine called Abdala sult, not just in me but in saw the development of a The government, which tions. cine. after a poem by 19th cen- the whole world,” pen- large biotechnology sector this week announced de- Vicente Vérez, director Neighboring countries tury Cuban independence sioner Maria del Carmen from the 1980s onwards velopment of a fifth exper- of the state-run Finlay like Mexico,Venezuela hero Jose Marti. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 15

Buenos Aires reopens as virus surge forces Sao Paulo to shut SAO PAULO – Sao Paulo and on Saturday will face the high- Buenos Aires were a tale of est level of restrictions to limit two cities this week, with the virus’ spread. That means Brazil’s megalopolis par- closure of all bars, restaurants, tially shutting down and shopping malls and any other bracing for possibly the establishment deemed worst of the COVID-19 pan- nonessential until at least demic, while residents of March 19. Argentina’s capital were Meanwhile, the nearly three stepping out to movie the- million residents of Buenos aters and restaurants. Aires are enjoying an easing of The two biggest cities in the restrictions, with authorization South American neighbors are to attend movie theaters taking headed in opposite directions, a effect this week. On Wednesday, trend that experts say demon- official figures showed just 26% Cemetery workers transport the coffin that contains the remains of Jose Valdelirio believed to strates how places that loosen of intensive-care beds were occu- have died from the new coronavirus, to a burial site at the Campo da Esperanca cemetery in the restrictions against the advice pied by COVID-19 patients.The Taguatinga neighborhood of Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, March 3, 2021. of scientists see a spike in the low hospitalization rate also en- pandemic while those that keep abled local authorities in mid- ing opening stadiums. The His plea is important as spite risks of damaging an econ- social distancing measures in February to reopen bars and 48,000-seat NeoQuimica arena Bolsonaro continues to cast omy already in a recession. place can reopen their restaurants until 2 a.m. – some- on the east side of Sao Paulo is doubt on the effectiveness of Over the past week, Brazil has economies sooner. thing long sought in a city fa- being used as a vaccination post. masks. recorded 35 COVID-19 deaths Sao Paulo, home to almost 12 mous for its all-hours culture. Some good news from the Sao The distance between the two per million residents, almost million people, is facing the That means Buenos Aires’ Paulo region came on Tuesday, nations has seemingly widened triple that of Argentina. worst two weeks yet in the pan- famed steakhouses are reignit- when soccer great Pelé received during the pandemic, with Troubles in Sao Paulo wors- demic and the growing risk that ing their fires, while counter- his first dose of a COVID-19 vac- Bolsonaro and Argentina’s ened after furtive Carnival cel- its once-resilient health care parts in Sao Paulo extinguish cine. The 80-year-old posted the Alberto Fernández adopting op- ebrations in mid-February. system will collapse, Gov. João theirs. news on his social media chan- posite tacks in their handling of Though street celebrations and Doria told reporters Wednesday. Buenos Aires’ casinos also re- nels. the crisis. The former down- parades were canceled, many More than 75% of the city’s in- opened at the end of 2020, and “The pandemic is not over yet. played the disease’s risks and paulistas, as residents are tensive-care beds are occupied authorities are discussing We must keep discipline to pre- has insisted on keeping the known, traveled or joined un- by COVID-19 patients and some whether the soccer-crazy city serve lives until many people economy churning, while the lat- masked gatherings. wards – like those of the private will be able to return to the sta- have taken the vaccine,” the ter has taken a more cautious The city declined to allow days Albert Einstein hospital – are diums soon. In Brazil, despite three-time World Cup winner approach. off work, traditionally permit- full for the first time. President Jair Bolsonaro’s push said. “When you go out, please Fernández imposed one of the ted during the Carnival period, Doria said the entire state, to allow fans back, no local au- don’t forget your mask and longest quarantines in the world in a bid to keep people from par- where 46 million people reside, thorities are seriously consider- maintain social distance.” between March and October,de- tying. Mexico to raise security for candidates ahead of elections

MEXICO CITY – Mexico will Last week, a potential mayoral step up security for candidates candidate in the Caribbean coast heading into the largest elections state of Quintana Roo was in its history, noting that at least gunned down in a cafe. Ignacio 64 murders related to the polit- Sánchez Cordero was the local ical process have already oc- tourism secretary in the town of curred since September,officials Puerto Morelos. said yesterday. But it isn’t just murder. Security Secretary Rosa Icela Candidates face kidnappings, Rodríguez said more security threats against their families, forces will be sent to high-risk extortion, the burning of their areas and security would be pro- homes or businesses. Criminal vided to candidates who receive groups also donate money and threats to protect them from offer their own protection to what she called the “crime their preferred candidates.They party,” efforts by organised crime do whatever it takes to control or white collar actors to desig- candidates who can help make nate or block candidates in races sure they go unpunished. around the country. “We know that the most vul- The June 6 elections will nerable level of government is choose a new lower chamber of In this May 13, 2018 file photo, women carry a photo of the late Jose Remedios Aguirre, a mayoral the municipal, especially when Mexico’s Congress, 30 of the candidate who was shot in broad daylight two days prior, during his funeral procession in Apaseo it’s in a zone influenced by organ- country’s 32 state legislatures El Alto, Mexico. Remedios was the second mayoral candidate assassinated that week in the ised crime,” Rodríguez said. and 15 governors, as well as local lead-up to general elections in July. Criminals use campaigns of fear positions. In total more than to intimidate politicians and the 21,000 positions will be at stake. It won’t be easy. people running for office were 150 murders that year with general public. Federal, state and local au- Organised crime is always in- killed. Security consulting firm some political connection. The government identified thorities will have to coordinate volved in elections. In 2018, Etellekt tallied 543 aggressions In December, former Jalisco seven states, mostly in the south on identifying potential risks, when President Andrés Manuel toward politicians. In total, ac- Gov. Aristóteles Sandoval was and along the Pacific coast, that Rodríguez said. López Obrador was elected, 48 cording to Rodríguez, there were shot to death in Puerto Vallarta. face the greatest threats. 16 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Myanmar crackdown on protests, widely filmed, sparks outrage

YANGON, Myanmar – military’s stranglehold diers since then, including Footage of a brutal over democracy in the 38 she said died crackdown on protests Myanmar,” and the world Wednesday. against a coup in body’s independent expert ”I saw today very dis- Myanmar unleashed on human rights in the turbing video clips,” said outrage and calls for a country urged the Security Schraner Burgener,speak- stronger international Council to watch the ing to reporters at UN response Thursday, a videos before meeting headquarters in New York day after 38 people Friday to discuss the crisis. via video link from were killed. Videos The coup reversed years Switzerland.“One was po- showed security forces of slow progress toward lice beating a volunteer shooting a person at democracy in Myanmar, medical crew. They were point-blank range and which for five decades had not armed. Another video chasing down and sav- languished under strict clip showed a protester agely beating demon- military rule that led to in- was taken away by police strators. ternational isolation and and they shot him from Despite the shocking vi- sanctions. As the generals very near, maybe only one olence the day before, pro- loosened their grip in re- meter. He didn’t resist to testers returned to the cent years, the interna- his arrest, and it seems streets yesterday to de- tional community lifted that he died on the street.” nounce the military’s Feb. most sanctions and poured She appeared to be re- Anti-coup protesters discharge fire extinguishers to counter the impact of 1 takeover – and were met in investment. ferring to a video shared the tear gas fired by police during a demonstration in Yangon, Myanmar yes- again with tear gas. UN special envoy for on social media that begins terday. The international re- Myanmar, Christine with a group of security sponse to the coup has so Schraner Burgener, de- forces following a civilian, some with their firearms physical attacks on jour- “I urge members of the far been fitful, but a flood scribed Wednesday as “the who they seem to have drawn, chase two people nalists. Those must cease UN Security Council to of videos shared online bloodiest day” since the pulled out of a building. A wearing the construction and those journalists who view the photos/videos of showing security forces takeover, when the mili- shot rings out, and the per- helmets donned by many have been detained along the shocking violence brutally targeting protest- tary ousted the elected son falls. After the person protesters down a street. with the other people who being unleashed on peace- ers and other civilians led government of leader briefly raises their head, When they catch up to the have been arrested should ful protesters before meet- to calls for more action. Aung San Suu Kyi. More two of the troops drag the people, they repeatedly also be freed.” ing,” Andrews said on The United States called than 50 civilians, mostly person down the street by beat them with rods and UNICEF, meanwhile, Twitter. the images appalling, the peaceful protesters, are the arms. kick them. One of the offi- condemned the reported The Security Council UN human rights chief confirmed to have been In other footage, about cers is seen filming the killings of at least five chil- has scheduled closed-door said it was time to “end the killed by police and sol- two dozen security forces, scene on his cell phone. dren since Wednesday, as consultations for Friday on In yet another video, well as the wounding of calls to reverse the coup — several police officers re- four others. including from UN peatedly kick and hit a “In addition to those Secretary-General person with rods, while the killed or seriously Antonio Guterres — and person cowers on the wounded, many children stop the escalating crack- ground, hands over their are being exposed to harm down. head. Officers move in and from tear gas and stun But Justine Chambers, out of the frame, getting a grenades, and are witness- the associate director of few kicks in and then casu- ing horrific scenes of vio- the Myanmar Research ally walk away. lence, in some cases di- Center at the Australian As part of the crack- rected against parents or National University, said down, security forces have family members,” that while the graphic im- also arrested around 1,200 UNICEF said in a state- ages would no doubt lead people, including journal- ment Thursday. to strong condemnations ists, according to UN While some countries — action on Myanmar envoy Schraner Burgener. have imposed or threat- would be harder. More than 500 children ened to impose sanctions “Unfortunately I don’t are estimated to be among following the coup, others, think the brutality caught those arbitrarily detained, including those neighbor- on camera is going to UNICEF said Thursday. ing Myanmar, have been change much,” she said. “I The journalists include more hesitant in their re- think domestic audiences Thein Zaw of The sponse. around the world don’t Associated Press; he and UN High Commissioner have much of an appetite five other members of the for Human Rights for stronger action, i.e. in- media have been charged Michelle Bachelet on tervention, given the cur- with violating a public Thursday urged all of rent state of the pandemic safety law that could see those with “information and associated economic them imprisoned for up to and influence” to hold mil- issues.” three years. A video of itary leaders to account. Any kind of coordinated Thein Zaw’s arrest “This is the moment to action at the UN will be Saturday showed him turn the tables towards difficult since two perma- briefly held in a chokehold justice and end the mili- nent members of the before he was led away. tary’s stranglehold over Security Council, China On Thursday, UN democracy in Myanmar,” and Russia, would almost spokesman Stephane she said. certainly veto it. Dujarric condemned the State Department Even if the council did targeting of journalists by spokesman Ned Price said take action, UN envoy security forces, including the U.S. was “appalled” at Schraner Burgener cau- the video of Thein Zaw’s the “horrific violence,” and tioned it might not make arrest, and called for their the UN’s independent ex- much of a difference. She release. pert on human rights in said she warned “The video is extremely Myanmar,Tom Andrews, Myanmar’s army that the disturbing,” Dujarric said. said the “systematic bru- world’s nations and the “We have seen in tality of the military junta Security Council “might Myanmar in recent days is once again on horrific take huge strong meas- harassment, arrests and display.” ures.” The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 17

Israel, Denmark and Austria join forces against COVID-19

TEL AVIV, Israel – Israel, Denmark concerns that the pandemic would last and Austria agreed yesterday to join longer in poorer countries that cannot af- forces in the fight against COVID-19 ford vaccination campaigns. with an investment in research and Israel has inoculated more than half of roll-out of vaccines to protect people its population in one of the world’s most against new surges and mutations of successful vaccination campaigns, the coronavirus. though it has faced some criticism for The leaders of the three countries said not sending significant amounts of vac- their alliance will set up a foundation cines to the Palestinians. and vaccine distribution plants in That’s expected to change next week Europe and Israel, based on Israel’s with Israel providing vaccines to some world-leading inoculation drive. 100,000 Palestinian laborers who work Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, left, visits a fitness gym with The effort is aimed at getting ahead of in Israel or its West Bank settlements. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, center, and Danish Prime Minister Mette another expected surge of COVID-19 and Still, the vast majority of the estimated Frederiksen, to observe how the "Green Pass," for citizens vaccinated the uncertainty of how long inoculations 5 million Palestinians in the West Bank against COVID-19, is used, in Modi'in, Israel, yesterday. will remain effective. Details, such as and Gaza Strip will remain unvacci- costs and the time frame for opening the nated. The European leaders said they app, can use gyms and go to concerts. projects, were still being worked out, the For Netanyahu, the alliance served as wanted to learn from Israel’s success. “Vaccine production involves many leaders said. a way to flex his political muscle on the Austria is among a number of European steps, so we will divide the task between “We think that by joining the resources international stage ahead of the March Union members that have expressed us, and each is to focus on specific ones,” of three small but very able and gifted 23 elections. “Vaccination nation,” as he frustration over the vaccine’s slow rollout said Kurz, who said his country will need countries, we can better meet these chal- calls Israel, would become “vaccination among the 27-nation bloc. Kurz said he about 30 million doses for the pandemic’s lenges,” Prime Minister Benjamin nations,” to include Denmark and was happy with some of the EU’s han- next expected stage. Austria has vacci- Netanyahu said. He added that other Austria, he said, adding the group would dling of the crisis,“but we also need to co- nated just over 6% of its population. countries have also expressed interest welcome more international partners. operate worldwide.” Frederiksen said that she would also in the effort. While Israel does not produce vaccines, Earlier in the day, Kurz and Danish like to see the countries cooperate on Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz the prime minister has moved aggres- Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen joined clinical trials. Denmark has inoculated a added that “this pandemic can only be sively to secure enough vaccines for Netanyahu at a gym in Israel to observe little over 7% of its population as of overcome through global cooperation.” Israel’s 9.3 million people in deals with how vaccine certifications, known as the March 1. That has been a delicate question as Pfizer and Moderna. Netanyahu has “green pass,” or passport, work. Only peo- “We all have promising research that virus-fighting campaigns faced chal- even offered some surplus vaccines to al- ple with the badge indicating they have could pave the way for next generation lenges in places like Europe and raised lied nations. been vaccinated, obtained through an platforms,” she said. Vaccine deliveries to African nations pick up speed NAIROBI, Kenya — More African coun- Kenya received 1.02 million doses of tries received the long-awaited first deliv- the AstraZeneca vaccine manufactured eries of COVID-19 vaccines on by the Serum Institute of India.The min- Wednesday, with Kenya, Rwanda, ister said the vaccines will be adminis- Senegal and Lesotho benefiting from the tered to some 400,000 medical workers global COVAX initiative that aims to en- and the rest will go to other front-line sure doses for the world’s low-and mid- workers such as teachers and police offi- dle-income nations. cers. African and other health officials have “This first shipment of 1 million vac- been frustrated by the sight of a handful cines is part of an order of 3.5 million to of rich countries rolling out vaccines after Kenya,” UNICEF spokesman Andrew snapping up large amounts for them- Brown told The Associated Press. selves. Kenya, East Africa’s commercial hub, “We will be known as the continent of has more than 106,000 confirmed virus COVID” if Africa doesn’t quickly reach its cases including more than 1,800 deaths. target of vaccinating 60% of its popula- Many health workers for months have tion of 1.3 billion people, the director of been disgruntled over the inadequate the Africa Centers for Disease Control supply of personal protective equipment. and Prevention, John Nkengasong, said They also say they were never paid the last week. The continent last month sur- allowances that the government prom- passed 100,000 confirmed deaths. ised them for the extra work and risk So far Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, while combating COVID-19. Angola, Gambia and Congo also have re- Rwanda received 240,000 doses of the ceived their first vaccine doses via AstraZeneca vaccine, with 102,960 Pfizer COVAX, with several other countries in- doses expected later Wednesday. The cluding Mali, Senegal, Malawi and health ministry said these first doses will Uganda set to receive them this week. AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines are received by airport workers at the target front-line workers, those above 65 Rwanda is becoming the first African airport in Kigali, Rwanda on Wednesday, March.middle-income nations. and people with underlying health con- nation to receive the Pfizer vaccine via ditions. COVAX. The vaccine needs storage at erage for achieving so-called herd immu- Despite the various challenges, some Health Minister Daniel Ngamije said ultra-cold temperatures, making rollout nity, when enough people are protected health officials expressed jubilation as Rwanda’s goal is to vaccinate 30% of the complex in hot countries and rural areas, through infection or vaccination to make the first vaccine doses via COVAX ar- population by the end of this year, and for example. it difficult for a virus to continue to rived. 60% by the end of 2022. Rwanda has COVAX has faced delays related to the spread. “We have been fighting the pandemic recorded 19,111 cases and 265 deaths. severely limited global supply of vaccine That’s why some countries such as with rubber bullets but what we have And the southern African kingdom of doses as well as logistical issues. South Africa, the hardest-hit African na- acquired today is equivalent, metaphor- Lesotho received 36,000 doses of the And COVAX alone will not supply tion, are also pursuing COVID-19 vac- ically speaking, to bazookas and machine AstraZeneca vaccine Wednesday. The Africa’s 54 countries with the doses cines via bilateral deals or via the African guns,” Kenyan Health Minister Mutahi country has had more than 10,000 infec- needed to reach the 60% population cov- Union’s bulk-purchasing program. Kagwe said. tions including 295 deaths. 18 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

11 killed in army helicopter crash in eastern Turkey ANKARA, Turkey – An army reported that Erbas was killed. helicopter crashed in eastern Nine of the victims died at the Turkey yesterday,killing 11 mil- crash site, while two died of their itary personnel on board and in- injuries in hospital, officials juring two others, the Defense said. Ministry said. News reports said The ministry described the a high-ranking officer was crash as an accident, but it was- among the victims. n’t immediately known what The Cougar type helicopter caused it. HaberTurk television crashed near the village of said the chopper is believed to Cekmece, close to the town of have crashed in adverse Tatvan, in the predominantly weather conditions, including Soldiers and rescue workers stand around the wreckage after an army helicopter crashed in Kurdish-populated Bitlis snow and fog. Bitlis, eastern Turkey, Thursday. province. It was on its way to Cekmece resident Davut Tatvan from the nearby Bikec was one of the first people am fine.’” inspect the area, the ministry States and the European Union. province of Bingol when author- to reach the site. “I began digging into the said. In 1997, PKK militants at- ities lost contact with it at 2:25 “One of (the injured person- snow; My hands got wounds and The location of the crash is in tacked a Turkish Cougar heli- pm (1125 GMT), the ministry nel) was slightly beneath the bruises. I dug, dug, dug and re- an area where Turkish troops copter in northern Iraq, killing said. helicopter but there wasn’t a lot moved the wounded soldier,” he have been combating militants 11 Turkish soldiers. The victims included Lt. Gen. of pressure on him. I cleaned the said. of the banned Kurdistan More recently,13 military per- Osman Erbas, an army corps snow from his mouth so he could Turkish Defense Minister Workers’ Party,or PKK.The con- sonnel were killed in 2017, when commander,said Devlet Bahceli, breathe,” Bikec told the state- Hulusi Akar departed for flict has killed tens of thousands a Cougar helicopter crashed into the leader of Turkey’s main na- run Anadolu Agency. “I asked Tatvan together with the coun- of people since 1984. power lines shortly after take-off tionalist party, on Twitter. Pro- him if he was okay and after he try’s chief of military staff and The PKK is considered to be a from a base near Turkey’s bor- government Daily Sabah also had recovered a little, he said: ‘I the land forces’ commander to terrorist group by the United der with Iraq. Amnesty urges Egypt to probe forced disappearance of family CAIRO – Amnesty Luther,Amnesty’s research and International urged on advocacy director for Middle Thursday Egyptian authorities East and North Africa. to release a 29-year-old mother Amnesty also accused from custody after she went Egyptian security forces of missing nearly two years ago pressuring Abu el-Naga to say together with her husband and she was arrested only two days toddler in what the group says prior to her February appear- was an act of forced disappear- ance before prosecutors. ance. A government media officer National Guard keep watch on the Capitol. According to a statement by did not immediately respond to the London-based watchdog, a request to comment on university teacher Manar Adel Amnesty’s statement. US Law enforcement on alert Abu el-Naga, her husband Since 2015, activists say Omar Abdelhamid Abu el-Naga there has been a spike in secret and their one-year-old son were arrests in Egypt, often followed after plot warning at Capitol taken by security agents from by days or weeks of denial from their home in the city of state bodies of an individual’s WASHINGTON – Law enforce- auguration day until 1933, when and spoke on condition of Alexandria in March 2019. detainment. ment was on high alert yester- it was moved to January 20. anonymity. Members of the Their whereabouts remained Luther from Amnesty said day around the US Capitol after There were no signs of distur- Three Percenters were among unknown until she appeared in Abu el-Naga’s case shows the authorities said intelligence had bance Thursday at the heavily the extremists who stormed the February before Egypt’s “ongoing campaign to stamp uncovered a “possible plot” by a secured building, with Capitol Capitol on January 6. Supreme State Security prose- out dissent and instill fear has militia group to storm the iconic Police and National Guardsmen The threat came as the Capitol cutors who ordered her pre- reached a new level of brutal- building again. The alert came on duty and a large fence around police and other law enforce- trial detention over terror ity.” two months after Donald Trump the perimeter that was put in ment agencies were taking crit- charges. Amnesty demanded Egyptian President Abdel- supporters smashed through place after the Jan. 6 riot. The icism from Congress in con- Egyptian authorities conduct Fattah el-Sissi in 2013, when windows and doors to try to stop Pentagon is reviewing a request tentious hearings this week on an immediate investigation he was defense minister, led the Congress from certifying now- to extend the Guard deployment their handling of the Jan. 6 riot. into the matter. military’s removal of his prede- President Joe Biden’s victory. 60 days beyond its current expi- Police were ill-prepared for the Manar Adel Abu el-Naga’s cessor and the country’s first The threat appeared to be con- ration date of March 12. mass of Trump supporters, some now three-year-old son was democratically elected presi- nected to a far-right conspiracy Online chatter identified by in tactical gear and armed, and handed over to her relatives dent, Mohammed Morsi after theory, mainly promoted by sup- authorities included discussions it took hours for National Guard while nothing was publicly said Morsi’s one-year rule proved di- porters of QAnon, that former among members of the Three reinforcements to come. By then, about her husband’s where- visive and sparked massive na- President Trump would rise Percenters, an anti-government rioters had broken into the abouts, Amnesty said. tionwide protests. again to power on March 4 and militia group, concerning possi- building and they roamed the “These egregious violations Since becoming president, el- that thousands would come to ble plots against the Capitol on halls for hours, stalling by security forces yet again il- Sissi has overseen an unprece- Washington to try to remove Thursday, according to two law Congress’ certification effort lustrate the devastating effects dented crackdown that has Democrats from office. March 4 enforcement officials who were temporarily and sending law- of the prevailing climate of im- tried to silence critics and jailed was the original presidential in- not authorized to speak publicly makers into hiding. punity in Egypt,” said Philip thousands. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 19

20 migrants die after being thrown overboard NAIROBI, Kenya – The demic and the resulting International closed borders have Organization for slowed but not stopped the Migration says at least flow of migrants.The IOM 20 migrants are dead said about 138,000 people after smugglers threw made the journey in 2019 80 overboard during a but just 37,500 in 2020. voyage from Djibouti It is not immediately in East Africa to clear what countries the Yemen. migrants in this latest A statement says journey were from, but “smugglers started shout- many make the voyage ing there were too many from Ethiopia and on board” after the boat Somalia. with 200 migrants, includ- In October,at least eight ing children under 18, set migrants drowned after off on Wednesday. smugglers forced them off The IOM says five bod- a boat near Djibouti. ies have been recovered, In 2017, up to 50 mi- and survivors are being grants from Somalia and treated in Djibouti. Ethiopia were “deliber- This has happened be- ately drowned” when a fore as thousands of mi- smuggler forced them into grants continue to try to the sea off Yemen’s coast. make their way from the And in 2018, at least 30 Horn of Africa to Yemen migrants and refugees and then on to rich Gulf died when a boat capsized countries. off Yemen, with survivors The coronavirus pan- reporting gunfire. Dallas police officer charged with two counts capital murder

DALLAS – A Dallas police from the Trinity River on officer was arrested March 10, 2017, with sev- Thursday on two counts of eral bullet wounds, the capital murder in two un- chief said. Douglas was re- connected 2017 killings ported missing that year that weren’t related to his and his body hasn’t been police work, authorities found. said. Police did not immedi- Bryan Riser, a 13-year ately respond to an email veteran of the force, was asking if the person who taken into custody implicated Riser in the Thursday morning and killings has been charged. brought to the Dallas Riser joined the depart- County Jail for processing, ment in 2008 and was according to a statement working as a patrol officer from the police depart- before his arrest. Police ment. A lawyer for him said he has been put on couldn’t immediately be administrative leave identified. pending the outcome of an Riser was arrested in internal affairs investiga- the unconnected killings tion. of Liza Saenz and Albert “We’re going to expedite Douglas after someone our process so this individ- came forward in August ual is no longer with the 2019 and told police he department,” Garcia said. had kidnapped and killed “We will not allow any- them at Riser’s direction, one to tarnish this badge,” police Chief Eddie Garcia the chief said, noting that said during a news confer- the FBI was assisting in ence. He said investigators the investigation. don’t know the motives for Riser had not been the killings, but that they booked into the jail as of were not related to Riser’s early Thursday afternoon, police work. a sheriff’s spokesman “We received informa- said. tion through a witness A spokeswoman for the that implicated Riser in Dallas County district at- both murders,” Garcia torney’s office said her of- said. fice didn’t have informa- Saenz’s body was pulled tion on the case. 20 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

New single release: W.O.M.A.N by G-Syndicate A tribute to all women! re you ready for another tively set people swaying as the Anthony Lowhar at rhythmic track from six tune envelopes you and takes Commercial Studios Inc., who Aof the island’s most tal- you on a melodic musical jour- mixed and mastered it while ented vocalists? Well, according ney.While exploring the many the vocal production of the to the renowned acapella group layers of women track was done by Vocaldini. G-Syndicate, you will not be G-Syndicate simultaneously At a time when the upliftment disappointed with their newest reveals the depths of their vocal of spirits is just what is needed, production. and individual talents, which the newest release of G- Paying homage to all females, blend effortlessly and magi- Syndicate delivers just what the fittingly titled W.O.M.A.N, cally. fans crave, fresh, exciting, mov- is as sweet to the ears as these Listeners will be amazed at ing music with a signature individuals are to our lives. their expert replication of Caribbean twist! Sprinkled with the customary musical instruments within W.O.M.A.N is scheduled to be Caribbean flavour, the new G- the composition of the track. released on Monday March 8, Syndicate track reminds listen- Its delivery will prove as potent 2020 on all of the social media ers why all women are valuable and enthralling as its content. platforms of the unique band. and worthy of appreciation. Written by Omari O'Neil, The acapella group can be fol- ‘LOCKDOWN? NO PROBLEM!’: G-Syndicate teases their new sin- But, it is not just the lyrics that Jadon Knight & Derek lowed on IG, Twitter or gle release with posts across social media platforms, inviting will keep you transfixed. Marshall, the track was pro- Facebook @gsyndicate6 as they fans to save the date of March 8, 2021, for the arrival of ‘more The harmony within the duced by Chris Allman of Slam invite you to share the newest, amazing content’. (INSTAGRAM) vocals of this secret will instinc- City Studios. Credit goes to groovy single. Superstar Beres Hammond shines at ‘Love From a Distance’ concert KINGSTON, JAMAICA – with a man and his music”, and “Yuh know yuh a mi fan,” Beres ‘Superstar’, a term that publi- the man admitted that he was said, in a voice tinged with hu- cists attach to entertainers saddened that he hasn’t seen mour, and to which Buju re- with three songs, is used so his fans for almost two years. sponded, in all seriousness, loosely nowadays that it “It makes me feel bad… but “Big time.” seemed to be on the verge of just relax, and welcome to Buju added, “The work that losing its meaning. But on Beres”, he said pre-show.What you’ve put in this industry, it’s Sunday evening, the last day of followed was a hit-you-where- only because my people refuse Reggae Month, acclaimed reg- you-feel-it-most selection of to see it why they don’t see it, gae singer and lover’s rock reggae, dancehall, rub-a-dub but the world see it. We appre- maestro Beres Hammond put and lover’s rock tunes. ciate you, yuh kno.” things in perspective and gave Beres’ well-tuned vocals, the Then it was straight into the a master class in what exactly topic of much conversation in ‘90s dancehall era that “bad it means to be a superstar. the chat, along with his “big like yaws” with “Pull Up the Beres, the quintessential su- chune after big chune” perform- Vibes”, continuing their on- Beres Hammond enthralled the virtual audience with hits perstar, effortlessly came, saw ance, made him a certified stage camaraderie that is guar- decades-deep catalogue. and conquered, at an intimate, GOAT, perhaps for the anteed to light up any concert virtual concert named after one umpteenth time. “GOAT. Real “just like Disney World”, to bor- saluted Beres with words of ho- “Rockaway” and “Wonder What of his many hits, “Love From a music that will never die. Beres row a line from their hit collab, nour, and together they per- the People Say”. Distance”. And, the over 100 Hammond, the godfather, the “Falling in Love All Over formed ‘God is Love’, a surpris- Among the comments were: 000 viewers on the VP Records legend, the icon, the superstar. Again”. Beres had earlier intro- ing collab with the legend and “What a musical healing, give YouTube channel, one of sev- He’s just the greatest ya man. duced Buju, or “Markie” as he Popcaan, who the chat baptised thanks big brother Beres eral platforms showing the con- Nuff love,” a fan wrote in the shouted him out, as “one of my “a legend in the making”. And Hammond soundtrack of our cert, ensured that Beres chat. favourite people”, and clearly, that was the defining moment life.” “Thank you, VP records trended on Sunday. the feeling is mutual. Buju when the bomb dropped in the and Beres Hammond, for a With cameos from his equally Live Chat even managed to get Beres to chat. phenomenal show! This was so legendary friends, Buju Banton In the absence of a real stage deejay while he took over the refreshing.” “Best concert ever. and Marcia Griffiths, along and real lighters, the live chat singing duties, a role reversal Appreciation Felt like I was there. The title with the deejay whose trajec- became that space where fire which proved classic and scored A production of VP Records, ‘Love From a Distance’ could tory is pointed straight at su- emojis aplenty dropped rapidly full marks in the chat. Beres’ Harmony House and the not have been better suited!! perstardom, Popcaan, the and blazed the place. And so too Another of Beres’ good Ministry of Culture, Gender, Everyone on that stage sang Grammy-nominated artiste did the hearts, dancing girls friends, Marcia Griffiths, also Entertainment and Sport, it and played their heart out. Just took his global audience and clap hands emojis, and, be- took centre stage, and of course, was a yeoman effort that went a lovely team performance.” through his decades-deep cata- lieve it or not, even a few the music spoke volumes, but into making this first-class, in- “Timeless. It is an honour to logue of hits, each song sound- bombs, all in gratitude for a so too did the former I-Three ternational production, backed be able to listen to Beres. He is ing fresh, yet familiar. Expertly most refreshing experience member’s appearance, which by the strength of Phase Three the greatest to do it. Beres backed by the mini-orchestra that was compared to “coconut was another discussed topic in Production and an A-class music stirs and moves the that was the Harmony House wata a wash off yu heart [and] the chat. “Look pon Marcia, team. Visually appealing, with soul.” band, along with his three a cold Red Stripe on a hot day”. when gal good dem good,” was crisp and clean audio, one “There is not one situation in back-up singers, who are com- It was a night on which Beres the compliment, in praise of her viewer stated, “this video will a relationship that Beres has pared to the legendary I-Three, was given his flowers, de- youthful appearance. Their per- be a time capsule”. Fans ea- not spoken to. I could hold a Beres had one fan declaring, “It servedly so. formance of the love song, Live gerly lavished praise on the complete conversation using nuh get nuh better than this”, His long-time friend and col- On, was simply epic. As Beres team for a great job and on Beres’ songs as my words.” while another exclaimed, laborator Buju Banton did not said, “What a beautiful mo- Beres for songs such as “Groovy The prolific Beres Hammond “What a way to end February hesitate to pay respect, even ment.” Little Thing”, “Sweet Lies”, signed off Love From a 2021!” surprising Beres by singing a Then came Popcaan. Surprise “Putting Up Resistance”, Distance, his first virtual con- Love From a Distance was song Beres himself had quickly gave way to full-blown “Double Trouble”, “Full cert, with his ode to gratitude, billed as “a moment in time recorded some 30 years ago. excitement. The ‘Unruly Boss’ Attention”, “Tempted to Touch”, “Say Thank You”. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 21

Jhené Aiko to host Dolly competing 2021 Grammy’s for 50th Premiere Ceremony Grammy hené Aiko is set to honour serve as emcee Jfor the Grammys’ NEW YORK – It’s been kickoff ceremony on 51 years since Dolly March 14, hosting the Parton earned her first The national treasure who has already won nine pre-telecast event where Grammy nomination, Grammys is competing for her 50th honour. most of the night’s and this year the na- awards are actually tional treasure who has decade ago. Whitney Houston’s fa- handed out. A triple won nine Grammys Among her wins, mous rendition of the nominee this year, Aiko throughout her career Parton picked up two song won two Grammys, could take home some is competing for her Grammys for the massive including record of the awards of her own during 50th honour. hit “9 to 5” and another year. the ceremony, which Parton’s first Grammy for “Trio,” her first collab- Parton said this year’s begins at 12 pm PT and nomination was at the orative album with nomination for “There will be followed by the 1970 show for “Just Emmylou Harris and Was Jesus” is extra-spe- 63rd Annual Grammys at Someone I Used to Linda Ronstadt. An cial because it is a deep 5 pm PT. Know,” a duet with Porter updated version of track that sits close to The event will kick off Wagoner. Nine years later “Jolene” won Parton and her heart. with a special, all-nomi- she won her first gramo- a cappella group “That particular song... nee performance cele- phone for “Here You Pentatonix a trophy.At was more rewarding to brating the 50th anniver- Come Again,” her 19th the 1983 show, the legend me than winning an sary of the classic Marvin For the first time this year, an Album of the Year solo album and first to scored a nomination for a award,” she said. “I felt Gaye track “Mercy, Mercy nominee will serve as the host of the Grammy’s go platinum. re-recording of “I Will very blessed to be a part Me (The Ecology),” fol- Premiere Ceremony! This year she’s nomi- Always Love You,” which of such a wonderful song.” lowed by performances nated for best contempo- she wrote and originally “But of course, since I from Rufus Wainwright, of the Year and Best ing look for the show,” he rary Christian music released in 1974, and a grew up in the church Poppy, Burna Boy, jazz Progressive R&B Album. shared. “Something a performance/song for collaborative perform- and I’m a person of faith, band Terri Lyne Aiko is also nominated little bit different.” “There Was Jesus,” her ance of the song with a song like that would Carrington + Social for Best R&B Per- At the time, Mason Jr. collaboration with Vince Gill earned a mean more to me than a Science, blues musician formance for her song shared there weren’t Christian rock singer nomination at the 1996 lot of the others, I have to Jimmy “Duck” Holmes, “Lightning & Thunder” plans for anyone to Zach Williams. Parton show – two years after admit.” classical pianist Igor featuring John Legend. attend, “as far as an won in the same category Levit, and Latin elec- ET spoke with Harvey audience is concerned,” last year for her guest ap- tropop musician Lido Mason Jr., Chair and however he noted that pearance on the remix of Pimienta. Interim President/CEO “nothing is set in stone,” “God Only Knows” by Country Music’s CMA “No matter where you of the Recording as regulations over Christian duo for KING live, you’ll be able to be Academy, earlier this COVID-19 could change & COUNTRY. Fest cancelled for 2021 part of Music’s Biggest year, who explained how at any minute. “It’s always special. You Night!” the Recording this year’s ceremony – “We’ll obviously adjust always love to be ac- Academy announced on which was postponed accordingly, but for us it’s knowledged,” Parton said due to ongoing Tuesday.“Hosted by from January 31 to really about the health of achieving her 50th nod, three-time GRAMMY March 14 due to the and well-being and safety though she quickly nominee @JheneAiko, the coronavirus pandemic – of our artist community, added: “Like I’ve always COVID-19 concerns #GRAMMYPremiere will take place at the staff and people working said, ‘I don’t work for COUNTRY music fans from bringing our fans Ceremony will take place Los Angeles Convention on the show.That’s of awards and rewards.’” are going to have to wait around the world the Sunday, March 14, at Center, which is right paramount importance to Parton is the second- a while for the next CMA CMA Fest experience 12:00 pm PT, and will next door to the Staples us,” he said. most nominated woman Fest. The annual celebra- they have come to ex- be streamed live Center. “There will be live in Grammy history, only tion of country music has pect,” the statement con- internationally via “It includes some areas performances as planned behind Beyoncé, who has been cancelled due to the tinued. GRAMMY.com.” around that location, as [right] now, but we 79 nods and 24 wins. The coronavirus. The organisation as- The R&B singer’s 2020 well as outside and on don’t know going country icon earned the The Country Music sured fans that they album, “Chilombo”, is some of the rooftops, so I forward what we’ll be Grammy Lifetime Association announced “have already started nominated for Album think it will be an excit- allowed to do.” Achievement Award a on Tuesday that this planning what will be the year’s festival will be can- most EPIC celebration of celled due to COVID-19 – Country Music next s marking the second time ummer,” and said that this festival has been they’ve already scheduled Golden Globes TV audience plummets cancelled because of the the event for June 9-12, LOS ANGELES – The Last year, the show Moviefilm” and TV shows people appearing in pandemic. 2022. TV audience for the vir- drew a TV audience of “The Crown” and “Schitt’s person but have given “After thoughtful delib- Fans who previously tual Golden Globes cere- 18.3 million. Creek” were the big win- few details. eration, we are saddened purchased tickets for last mony crashed by some NBC did not return ners, but the ceremony Sunday’s Golden Globe to share that CMA Fest year’s cancelled festival 60 percent, according to calls for comment on was also marred by de- audience was the lowest will not take place in will be able to once-again ratings data on Tuesday, Tuesday. mands for more diversity since 2008 when the 2021,” the Country Music roll the passes over to the making the 2021 edition Sunday’s show, hosted in the Hollywood Foreign usual gala dinner was Association shared in festival next year, while the least watched since under pandemic condi- Press Association, which replaced by a news a statement posted to refunds will also be made 2008. tions by Tina Fey and chooses the winners. conference because of Instagram on Tuesday. available. Nielsen data cited by Amy Poehler, was widely Britain’s Daily a Hollywood writers “We know our fans Country Music Assoc- CNBC and Hollywood criticised for technical Telegraph described the strike and attracted near and far have hoped iation’s statement con- outlet Deadline said that glitches and for what ceremony as a “shambolic 6.03 million viewers. that the festival could cluded optimistically, “We just 6.9 million many called Zoom fa- hellscape of Zoom inepti- Last September’s safely return this sum- appreciate your patience, Americans tuned in to tigue, as scores of nomi- tude” that it said boded Emmy Awards ceremony mer, and while we are en- understanding and ongo- watch the three-hour cer- nees watched and reacted ill for the Oscars in for television, which couraged to see COVID- ing support of CMA Fest emony for film and TV to their wins on video April. Oscar organisers was also a virtual affair, 19 vaccines becoming and Country Music as we that was broadcast on camera. have said they will put dropped to a record more widely available, we look forward to the days NBC television on Movies “Nomadlad,” on a ceremony from mul- low of 6.1 million still face several chal- when we can come Sunday. “Borat Subsequent tiple locations with some viewers. lenges that prevent us together again.” 22 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Murphy, Hall return to Zamunda

NEW YORK – When Eddie Murphy script that I love and I realise this made the original “Coming movie that we thought we never were to America,” he was, almost going to do a sequel to, we’re about to indisputably, the funniest man head to Atlanta – which is America’s in America. Africa,” says Hall. Murphy was at the very height of his The shoot took place on the Tyler fame, coming off “Beverly Hills Cop II” Perry Studio sound stages, with Rick and the stand-up special “Raw.” They Ross’ nearby mansion serving as the were heady times. Arsenio Hall, Zamunda palace. The movie reunites Murphy’s long-time friend and co-star most of the original cast – including in “Coming to America,” remembers James Earl Jones, John Amos and Shari them sneaking out during the shoot to a Headley – and brings in many others, Hollywood nightclub while still dressed too, including Wesley Snipes, Leslie as Prince Akeem and his loyal aide Jones and Tracy Morgan. Hall, who had Semmi. “We were insane,” says Hall. been doing stand-up with Chris Rock The ‘80s, Murphy says, are “all a blur.” and Dave Chappelle, sensed everyone “I was so young, all this stuff was hap- wanted in. pening. You take everything for granted “One day in the dressing room, Dave when you’re young, how successful I is like, ‘I heard ya’ll are doing ‘Coming was,” Murphy says, speaking by Zoom to America 2.’ I said, ‘Yeah, man.’ He with a shelf of award statuettes behind said, ‘I want to be in that,’” recalls Hall. him. “Now I take nothing for granted Arsenio Hall, from left, Eddie Murphy and Clint Smith appear in a scene from (A scheduling conflict interfered and the and appreciate everything.” ‘Coming 2 America’. versatile Hall, who has four roles in the Thirty-three years after “Coming to movie, ended up playing the witch doc- America,” Murphy and Hall have re- catchphrases. People do the mic drop Ryan Coogler approached him about a tor part Chappelle might have.) turned to Zamunda. The sequel, origi- now.The very first mic drop is Randy “Coming to America” sequel. During Some things have changed with time. nally planned to hit theatres last year, Watson from ‘Coming to America.’” production on “Black Panther,” Lupita This “Coming to America” is rated PG- was sold due of the pandemic by “Coming to America” has indeed Nyong’o (once not a fan of “Coming to 13. Murphy was just 27 when he made Paramount Pictures to Amazon, where played a unique role in culture since America” for its cliched depiction of “Coming to America.” Now, he has ten it will begin streaming today. 1988. Real-life McDowell’s fast-food Africans) and other cast members children and a grandchild. His daugh- It’s an unlikely coda to a blockbuster restaurants – the McDonald’s knockoff threw a “Coming to America” birthday ter, Bella, has a small role in the film. comedy, one that belongs so completely from the movie – have briefly popped up party. Ruth E. Carter designed the cos- “He joked about it on ‘Saturday Night to the late ‘80s that even the sequel in Los Angeles and Chicago. Beyoncé tumes of both “Black Panther” and Live,’ about him versus Cosby and who’s tries to keep some of that era’s spirit. (A and Jay-Z once dressed up as characters “Coming 2 America.” Both were shot in America’s favourite dad now. But there’s few notable R&B and hip-hop groups from the film for Halloween. Atlanta. something to that,” says Brewer. “If make cameos.) “Coming 2 America,” di- But the John Landis-directed movie “I’ve had people say,‘Now Zamunda you’re ever around Eddie and his kids – rected by Craig Brewer, reverses the was also a massive success on release. It isn’t a real place, right?’” says Brewer. and now his grandchild – you see that fish-out-water plot to bring Queens to was the second-highest grossing film “And I say, ‘No, it’s definitely a real he’s truly a man who loves his family Zamunda after Akeem learns he fa- domestically in 1988 with $128.2 mil- place. I believe it’s just northeast of and does not need the public’s constant thered a son (Jermaine Fowler) on his lion in tickets sold – nearly double what Wakanda.’” validation and appreciation to know first visit to New York. “Die Hard” made that year. Globally, it The script for “Coming 2 America” who he is.” Some elements have been updated. grossed $288.8 million, or more than was worked on for four years but shoot- Family life figures prominently in There’s a plot of female empowerment; $630 million adjusted for inflation. ing started quickly. Murphy first sug- Murphy’s newer stand-up material. A KiKi Layne plays Akeem’s daughter. At To Murphy, that’s the movie’s legacy. gested Brewer direct “Coming 2 long-awaited return to performing in the barbershop, where Murphy and “’Coming to America’ is the first America” during a dinner with John 2020 had been his intention before the Hall also reprise their characters, the movie in the history of the movies that Singleton after a test screening of “My pandemic hit. Those plans haven’t been conversation bounces from Teslas to had an all-Black cast that travelled all Name Is Dolemite,” the Rudy Ray cancelled; when live performance re- transgender people. around the world,” says Murphy. “They Moore biopic that helped spur a revival turns, Murphy says, “then we’ll do “We had a draft where they had on don’t give a s*** about Selma and for the 59-year-old Murphy. stand-up.” Until then, Murphy, a proud MAGA hats and they were Martin Luther King and civil injustice, “’Coming to America’ was one of my homebody, has found himself back Republicans,” says Murphy.“It was whatever our story is in America. They favourite movies as a teenager,” says where he started. funny but it was like, eh, let’s not even don’t give a s*** about that around the Brewer, speaking from his home in “I had gotten off the couch to go to go there.” world. Memphis, Tenn. “I couldn’t help but just work. I said, ‘OK, let me get off this Instead, Murphy and his collabora- “It’s not about being Black. It’s about say ‘Yes!’ immediately.Then it became couch I’ve been on for eight years. Let tors – including writers Barry W. love and family and tradition and doing clear to me that this is going to go, like, me go do some work,’” Murphy says. Blaustein, David Sheffield and Kenya the right thing,” Murphy adds. “If ‘Black now.” “And we were rolling. We did everything Barris – felt the core appeal of “Coming Panther’ was about the hood, people “Coming 2 America” also rekindles we set out to do. The big thing was to America” lies in its fairy tale premise. wouldn’t have seen ‘Black Panther’ all the great comedic chemistry between going back to ‘Saturday Night Live.’ We “This is the only movie I’ve ever done around the world.” Murphy and Hall. Murphy estimates was on a high. ‘Coming 2 America’ was that had a cult following,” says Murphy. The connections between “Coming to the close friends have seen each other in the can. Then the whole world fell “We had totally forgot about ‘Coming to America” and “Black Panther” – both two or three times a week for 40 years. apart.” America.’ Then this movie took on this rare depictions of Black royalty and a But they went decades before talking “I was all ready to go,” Murphy says, life in the culture. It became like a cult mythic Africa – are many. Before mak- about a sequel. grinning, “and then I had to go sit back movie. Lines from the movie became ing “Black Panther,” Murphy has said “All of a sudden I’m reading this on the couch.”

Online harassment of Rachel Lindsay condemned by ‘Bachelor’ producers THE executive producers of the interview with Chris Harrison is In her capacity as a correspondent for said. “Bachelor” franchise have Rachel completely inexcusable,” the statement the TV show “Extra,” Lindsay spoke Harrison apologised for appearing to Lindsay’s back. read. “Rachel has received an with Harrison about a contestant on the defend Kirkconnell and announced They posted a statement on unimaginable amount of hate and has current season of “The Bachelor,” he was “stepping aside” from his Twitter supporting the first Black been subjected to severe online bullying, Rachael Kirkconnell, who was report- “Bachelor” franchise duties “for a period “Bachelorette” after she received which, more often than not, has been edly photographed at an antebellum of time.” harassment online following an rooted in racism.” plantation-themed fraternity formal Lindsay deactivated her Instagram interview with the franchise’s host, “That is totally unacceptable,” the in 2018. account after she received backlash. Chris Harrison. statement went on to read. Lindsay said it was “not a good look.” “TheBachelor/Bachelorette” franchise “As Executive Producers of the “Rachel has been an incredible “Well, Rachel is it a good look in 2018,” has long been the subject of discussions Bachelor Franchise we would like advocate for our cast, and we Harrison responded. “Or, is it not a good regarding race and equality. to make it perfectly clear that any are grateful that she has worked look in 2021? Because there’s a big dif- This season’s “Bachelor,” Matt James, harassment directed towards Rachel tirelessly towards racial equity ference.” is the first African American to hold Lindsay in the aftermath of her and inclusion.” “It’s not a good look ever,” Lindsay the title. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 23

Hilaria, Alec Baldwin welcomed baby no. 6 with help of a surrogate ilaria Baldwin why are people so been more clear and I’m and Alec Baldwin mean.” sorry.” Hsurprised their Alec saw the message “I’m proud of the way fans earlier this week and wrote, “because, ba- I was raised, and we’re when they announced sically, they’re not very raising our children to their baby news. smart. Americans are share the same love and The couple, who tied people who know less respect for both,” she the knot in 2012, took to about how to live a continued. “Being vul- Instagram on March 1 peaceful, healthy life nerable and pushing to reveal they quietly than most of the civi- ourselves to learn and welcomed their sixth lized world.” grow is what we’ve built child, a baby girl named Although Hilaria has our community on, and Lucia. shared Instagram posts I hope to get back to the One day later, a source of her newborn, she’s supportive and kind en- has confirmed to E! continued to disable vironment we’ve built News that their new- comments. She only re- together.” born “arrived via surro- cently returned to the But despite the scan- gate.” social media platform dal, the 37-year-old At this time, the yoga after being accused of author appears to be instructor and “30 Rock” faking her Spanish ac- focusing her energy on actor haven’t shared any cent and distorting her her family’s new addi- other details about their heritage – which came tion. After announcing little one. However, Alec into question following their little one’s arrival, recently spoke out and a viral Twitter thread Hilaria gushed, “We are defended his wife after in December. so in love with our reading negative com- “I’ve spent the last daughter, Lucia. Just ments on his Instagram. month listening, reflect- like your brothers and “Who’s the mother? ing, and asking myself sisters, you are a dream She wasn’t pregnant. how I can learn and come true.” She gave birth six grow,” she began her She previously shared months ago,” one user caption on February 5. the baby news with a Earlier this week, Hilaria and Alec Baldwin made their surprising baby announce- replied, to which the “My parents raised my simple caption, “7.” ment, sharing, ‘We are so in love with our daughter, Lucia.’ 62-year-old actor re- brother and me with The couple is already sponded, “you should two cultures, American proud parents to Back in 2019, Hilaria learned that our baby will never lose sight of shut the f**k up and and Spanish, and I feel Carmen, 7, Rafael, 5, opened up about suffer- passed away at four this.” mind your own busi- a true sense of belong- Leonardo, 4, Romeo, 2 ing a miscarriage four months,” she shared at “I told [Carmen] that ness.” ing to both. The way I’ve and Eduardo, 6 months. months after she an- the time. “We also want this baby isn’t going to While some brought spoken about myself The Beetlejuice actor nounced she and Alec you to know that even come after all...,” she up the controversy and my deep connection shares 25-year-old were expecting their though we are not ok added, “but we will try surrounding Hilaria’s to two cultures could daughter Ireland fifth child. right now, we will be. We very hard to give her a heritage, others com- have been better ex- Baldwin with his ex, “We are very sad to are so lucky with our 4 little sister another mented, “Wish I knew plained – I should have Kim Basinger. share that today we healthy babies – and we time.” Sofia Vergara’s ex Nick Loeb cannot use their embryos without her consent Sofia Vergara’s ex-fiancé, Nick Loeb, were created using his sperm and her will not be able to use the frozen em- eggs while they were still in a relation- bryos they created together without the ship. According to the lawsuit, the actress’ consent, the Los Angeles embryos were frozen six months prior Superior Court ruled on Tuesday. to their split in 2014. The judge granted Vergara a “There is a contract that he can’t do permanent injunction, ruling that the anything,” Vergara said. “We wrote contract they signed with a Beverly what we wanted at the time. It’s not Hills fertility clinic in 2013 is still like a contract [where] they give [it to] valid. Vergara, 48 and Loeb, 45, were you right there the moment they’re engaged from 2012 to 2014. Their gonna take the eggs out – no, they give years-long battle over the embryos has you this in advance. You see it, you re- consisted of multiple lawsuits in both view it, and not only that, we did it two California and Louisiana, as Loeb times. ... Two times and suddenly you attempted to take control of their want to change your mind?” embryos and implant them in a “What judge is going to say OK?” she surrogate. added. “Even if it’s life or not life, it’s Vergara, who has been married to not what he signed at the moment. You actor Joe Manganiello since 2015, first know, you should have thought about Sofia Vergara with ex-fiancé, Nick Loeb. spoke out about the lawsuit during a all of that.” 2015 interview with Howard Stern on Vergara also explained at the time loving relationship of parents that, you I wouldn’t imagine anyone saying to his SiriusXM channel. The interview why she believed having a child with know, get along, that don’t hate each bring to the world kids that already came just weeks after Loeb sued her ex would be far from ideal. other,” she said. “I don’t hate him but have everything set up wrong for them. Vergara over two frozen embryos that “More than a mother, [a child] needs a obviously he has a problem with me.… It’d be so selfish.” 24 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

BTS named world’s best-selling artists of 2020

POP group BTS have been named the best- selling artists of 2020 by the IFPI, the organisa- tion that represents the global recorded music industry. The accolade caps a stellar year for the Korean boyband, who re- leased two chart-topping BTS are a global K-pop phenomenon. albums in 2020 – “Map of the Soul: 7” and “Be”. Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, ket – resulting in the Duo/Group Performance The boyband beat Jimin, V and Jungkook – band members receiving category, alongside stars Taylor Swift, who took who come from all over a $108 million (£77 mil- like Lady Gaga and the crown last year, into South Korea. lion) windfall. Taylor Swift. second place. They’ve subsequently It more than made up Frances Moore, chief They are the first non- become standard-bearers for their inability to tour executive of IFPI, said, Western act to win, and for the K-pop scene, sell- amid the Covid pan- “BTS are a global phe- the first whose songs are ing millions of records demic. The gap in their nomenon. They have had not predominantly sung and concert tickets, while schedule also allowed another outstanding in English. racking up billions of BTS to record their sec- year... and [are] continu- The award is calculated streams. ond album of the year, ally finding creative and according to an artist or The group was the which they billed as a engaging ways to share group’s worldwide sales, brainchild of veteran “letter of hope” to fans. their story with the downloads and streams, writer and producer Bang The record contained world. covering their whole body Shi Hyuk, who formerly “Dynamite” – their first “They truly show the of work. worked at the K-pop single to be recorded en- power that music has to Drake came third, with entertainment giant tirely in English, which bring joy and happiness The Weeknd fourth and JYP, then formed Big Hit topped the US charts in to people the world over. Billie Eilish at number Entertainment and put August, after breaking “We would like to con- five. BTS together around one-day streaming gratulate RM, Jin, Suga, BTS, also known as the group leader, RM. records in the US. J-hope, Jimin, V and Bangtan Boys, were Last year, he floated Dynamite also earned Jung Kook and we are ex- formed in 2013 and con- Big Hit Entertainment BTS a Grammy nomina- cited to see what they sists of seven members – on the Korean stock mar- tion in the Best Pop have in store next.” Bridge The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 25 SSPPOORRTTSS West Indies looking for consistency WEST INDIES captain over the years. two games that he is just looking for improvements. run chase, which led to an been the topic of conver- Kieron Pollard said do “You don’t expect mira- not good enough and try “It can only be positives entertaining game that sation among the West not look for any major cles from people and to discard them.” from there. We will still had everyone on the edge Indian plans. changes to the team as sometimes you have to The game started well look for areas to improve of their seats. Pollard said that with they look to build con- give them chances and op- for the West Indies with and it is a matter of just “You want wickets, you the short turnaround sistency. portunities to fulfil what the new bowling attack. trying to execute as well.” want sixes. It was topsy- there isn’t much physical Pollard was speaking in you are trying to achieve “I thought they were With the goal still to turvy, but that’s how you practice they can do, but the match preview ahead and after a period of time fantastic even though it formulate a team for the want cricket matches to it is “a mental picture of today’s game against then you can make a was a new bowling line- World Cup as well as win go, you don’t [want] one as to how we want to go Sri Lanka and despite a judgement call. up. I don’t think we had the series, Pollard is eager side totally dominating about it, the sort of shots shaky performance in the “After one game I don’t any bowlers from the last to see how far the bowling the other. But when it we want to play against middle order where a hat think we are thinking series there and they used line-up can take them comes to being West the spinners and the trick was taken, Pollard about many changes or their skill and they used even as they try different Indian and West Indies matchups in terms of our believes that the constant anything like that and we the wicket and they used things. cricket, this has been syn- batsmen”. chopping and changing need to get away from the their brains and they However, the bizarre onymous with us, so hope- “We have experienced when things do not go fact that if a guy doesn’t were able to shut out Sri game was termed “a fully we can change it.” guys here who have been right in one or two games perform, not exclusively Lanka for 130-odd,” said great advertisement for The goal is not to lose around for a long time is something that has using Chris but any indi- Pollard. cricket”, as the West batsmen in clusters as and we have the younger plagued the West Indies vidual, after one game or However, he is always Indies wobbled in their the West Indies got off to ones as well who have a solid start thanks to learnt and [are] continu- opener Lendl Simmons ing to learn and will want and Evin Lewis. to impress. The challenge now will “Hopefully our batting be to negate the Sri line-up can come together Lanka spin attack, which and it wouldn’t be that has already posed chal- heart-wrenching chasing lenges and has already small totals.” (CG) Pollard joins elite club with six sixes in an over By Corey Greaves hitter.” Singh is the only other EVEN as West Indies batsman to have struck captain Kieron Pollard six sixes in an over in struck an impressive six T20 which was against sixes from one over to join England, while Gibbs was an elite club as the third the first person to accom- batsmen to do so in plish the feat at the World International cricket, he Cup in 2007 against the was still tough in his own Netherlands. personal assessment of In Antigua, over a Kieron Pollard takes a bow after scoring 36 in an over, while Jason Holder looks on. (CWI MEDIA PHOTO/PHILIP SPOONER) his performance against decade later, they were Sri Lanka at the Coolidge joined by Pollard. Ground in Antigua. “A couple of things went WI win thrilling contest Pollard came in after through my mind before the Sri Lanka leg-spinner, the sixth ball. I thought, ST JOHN’S, Antigua – came the first West Indian Akila Dananjaya, ran ‘Should I go for the six or Captain Kieron Pollard and third batsman to through some of the West take the 30 runs in the entered the record books accomplish this feat in in- Indies top order to claim over?’ He went around as he smashed six sixes in ternational cricket. The a hat-trick in the fourth the wicket and bowled it an over to give West Indies others are: Yuvraj Sigh over and had the home onto my pads, I told my- victory over Sri Lanka by of India against England team reeling in their self, ‘Wait Polly, take a four wickets in the first in ICC World T20 tour- run chase. But on chance.’” CG Insurance T20 nament in 2007 and Dananjaya’s return in the Pollard mentioned that International on Herschelle Gibbs of sixth over, the powerful “these are some of the Wednesday night at South Africa against The Pollard took him to task. things that you dream of Coolidge Cricket Ground. Netherlands in the ICC Ball after ball was dis- and it actually coming to This was the West Indies Cricket World Cup 2007. patched over the bound- reality is a surreal mo- Men’s team first T20I at Pollard was named the CG ary rope with the West ment, albeit in a winning this venue, and they re- Insurance Man-of-the- Indies Test captain Jason cause, which I think is stricted the visitors to 131- Match. Holder a mere spectator more important”. 9 off their 20 overs. In Pollard’s first six set Akila Dananjaya celebrates his hat-trick. (CWI MEDIA at the other end. Even with this huge ac- reply, the home side mo- the stage – it was a huge PHOTO/PHILIP SPOONER) Pollard finished on a complishment, Pollard tored to 52 off the first 19 slog-sweep over mid- quickfire 38 runs off 11 was thinking of the team balls thanks to openers wicket, while second sailed the sixth ball, but Pollard his four overs. balls as he was dismissed first. Evin Lewis (28) and Lendl straight back over the simply flicked it over deep attempting a defensive “I would’ve love to have Simmons (26). Then, spin- bowler’s head and onto the midwicket and celebrated Upcoming matches shot. carried on and be there at ner Akila Dananjaya took sightscreen. The third by taking a bow. • Friday, March 5: But for the middle- the end. I pride myself on a hat-trick as West Indies cleared long off and then The West Indies reached 2nd CG Insurance T20 order power hitter, he was trying to finish games slipped to 54-3. the fourth was deposited their victory target off 13.1 International at CCG. disappointed not to be in and hopeful with personal Pollard arrived at the over wide long-on. His left overs, scoring 134-6. Jason First ball is 6 p.m. (5 p.m. the middle to ensure the achievements along the crease and immediately hand came off the bat for Holder sealed the victory Jamaica Time) West Indies victory. way yes, but whatever the changed the tempo. He hit the fifth but he still had with a big six to be un- • Sunday, March 7: “From a personal point team requires. Dananjaya for six massive enough power to muscle beaten on 29. Earlier, left- 3rd CG Insurance T20 of view it is nice to be in “My personal assess- sixes in the sixth over,on the ball over the legside arm seamer Obed McCoy International at CCG. the same company as ment is that I failed in the his way to a match-win- boundary. The bowler was the best bowler for First ball is 6 p.m. (5 p.m. Herschelle Gibbs and sense of not being able to ning 38 off 11 balls. He be- went around the wicket for West Indies with 2-25 off Jamaica Time) Yuvraj Singh as a power take the team to the end.” 26 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Bavuma appointed first black African captain of South Africa TEMBA Bavuma has had held the T20 and become the first black one-day international African to perma- captaincy roles since last nently captain a South January and was named Africa side after being temporary Test skipper appointed their lim- in December. ited-overs skipper. De Kock had taken Batsman Bavuma, 30, over all three roles from will lead the Proteas in Faf du Plessis, who re- the next two Twenty20 tired from Test cricket World Cups, later this last month and said he year and in 2022, and the will now focus on T20s. next 50-over World Cup Mixed-race players in 2023. Ashwell Prince, JP Opener Dean Elgar, 33, Duminy and Justin has been named Test cap- Ontong have previously Temba Bavuma and Dean Elgar were appointed by Cricket South Africa director and former captain Graeme tain for the next cycle captained a South Africa Smith. of the World Test cricket side on a tempo- Championship. rary basis. Hashim Amla, while Graeme Smith was and I am looking forward tained the Test side twice believe to be the pinna- “This is one of the the first Asian to play for injured. to this new challenge and when Du Plessis was un- cle of the game, is the greatest honours of my South Africa, has also Bavuma became the journey with Dean in the available. biggest highlight of my life,” said Bavuma. captained his country in first black African to Test cricket format, as “I’ve always said that career and I’m grateful “Captaining the matches in all three for- score a Test century for well as leading the team to captain your country for the opportunity to Proteas has been a dream mats. South Africa, against to not just one, but in any form of the game is represent my country in of mine for many years as Prince was the first England in Cape Town in three World Cups in the the biggest honour that a such an important way.” those closest to me know.” mixed-race player to cap- 2016. very near future,” he player can be fortunate South Africa are cur- Bavuma and Elgar re- tain South Africa when “The responsibility of added. to receive,” he said. rently ranked sixth in place wicketkeeper he led them for two Tests captaining one’s country Elgar, who has 67 Test “To captain my coun- Test cricket and fifth in Quinton de Kock, who in Sri Lanka in 2006, is not one I take lightly, caps, previously cap- try’s Test team, which I both ODIs and T20s.

Murray sees silver lining in Rotterdam exit Report: Woods told cops he didn’t remember driving ANDY Murray admits he came up short in the big TIGER Woods told re- “We’re trying to deter- moments in his 7-5 6-2 sponding deputies to his mine if a crime was com- second-round defeat by single-vehicle crash last mitted,” Sheriff’s Deputy Andrey Rublev in week that he did not know John Schloegl said. “If Rotterdam, but the former how the accident hap- somebody is involved in a world number one departs pened and didn’t remem- traffic collision, we’ve got with encouraging signs for ber driving, USA Today re- to reconstruct the traffic his future as he continues ported yesterday. collision, if there was any his recovery from injuries. USA Today cited a copy reckless driving, if some- Murray, a three-time of the search warrant affi- body was on their cell Grand Slam winner who davit that was used by phone or something like claimed his first tour-level the Los Angeles County that.We determine if there victory since August in the Sheriff’s Department to was a crime. If there was first round against Robin obtain the black box in the no crime, we close out the Haase, held his own SUV Woods was driving. case, and it was a regular against Rublev in a tight “The deputies asked him traffic collision.” first set that lasted 62 how the collision occurred,” Woods, 45, was hurt last minutes before the according to the affidavit. week in an early-morning, Russian raced away with “Driver said he did not single-car crash near the the second. know and did not even re- border of Rolling Hills The 33-year-old Briton, member driving ... Driver Estates and Rancho Palos who is currently ranked was treated for his injuries Verdes, Calif. Emergency 123rd after sliding down at the hospital and was personnel extracted him the rankings due to asked there again how the from his car and trans- two hip operations, was collision occurred. He re- ported him to Harbor- pleased that he had gone peated that he did not UCLA Medical Center. toe-to-toe with world num- know and did not He underwent surgery ber eight Rublev. remember driving.” Tuesday to treat multiple “I want to be playing at The black box houses injuries to his right lower this level because I learn a Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray admits he came up short in the big data related to speed and leg, including the insertion lot from a match like this,” moments in his 7-5 6-2 second-round defeat by Andrey Rublev in Rotterdam. acceleration, braking se- of a rod into the tibia. Murray said. “The issues quence, steering angle Additional screws and pins and the mistakes that you so. He is one of the bigger court in Doha next week cited to get back out there changes and other instru- were needed in the leg,and make get amplified more hitters and he wasn’t get- after two knee operations and compete,” Murray ment activity. he was treated for muscle at this level... ting too many free points in the past 12 months and said. A sheriff’s deputy said and soft-tissue injuries. He “There were some good in the first set. He was the Briton has backed the “I am sure in time, pro- Wednesday the warrant is underwent another proce- signs. Just when it mat- having to work hard.” 20-time Grand Slam win- viding that his body is a matter of course in LA dure last Friday. tered, I wasn’t good Murray’s long-time rival ner to hit top gear. good, that he will play top- County and considered Woods subsequently was enough. I thought I moved Roger Federer is set to “I am sure he has been level tennis again because part of the department’s moved to Cedars-Sinai well for the first hour or make his return to the training hard and is ex- he is that good.” due diligence. Medical Centre. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 27

Haas driver Nikita Mazepin admits ‘huge mistake’

RUSSIAN driver Nikita money, Mazepin said: “I am not Mazepin admits he made a the only driver who has had it to “huge mistake” in an inci- deal with. dent in which he was filmed “But it doesn’t really bother inappropriately touching a me because I am proud of my woman. family and proud of my father The 22-year-old Haas driver and I am not thinking of it in a said he was “not proud” of his negative way. Also I am looking behaviour and understood why it at it as a challenge to prove my- was wrong. self in F1 and I am going to do it.” “We as human beings have to Mazepin said he was still in show a certain behaviour to- discussions as to how he would wards each other and I am con- be classified when he races in F1 fident I will be one of those hu- this year,following the ban on all mans from now on,” he said. athletes from competing as “I made a huge mistake but I Russians as a result of sanctions have taken responsibility and imposed on the country by the learned from it.” World Anti-Doping Agency. Mazepin had previously is- Mazepin’s team-mate is Mick sued a public apology, saying he Schumacher, son of seven-time had “let myself and many people champion Michael and a mem- down”. Haas will give Mick Schumacher – son of Michael – his debut F1 drive. ber of the Ferrari driver acad- However, he would not say emy. whether he had apologised to the Mazepin’s behaviour internally. who are aiming to get to the off social media.” The 21-year-old is another women in the video for his ac- Mazepin said:“They have been same championship. Yesterday Haas unveiled their rookie, who won the Formula 2 tions. very patient helping me learn “So with that you have to be a car’s new livery. It features the championship last year,and said The incident happened in a car this matter further and I think certain way.I haven’t done it in- colours of the Russian flag in def- he was “very excited” to start his towards the end of last year and on the whole behaviour in the stantly. I was too late to realise erence to the team’s new main career in F1. took place shortly after he was incident I am way further than that unfortunately. sponsor, a fertiliser company He dismissed claims that hav- confirmed as a Haas F1 driver I have ever been.” “And in regards to what I’ve owned by Mazepin’s billionaire ing two novice drivers was a for 2021. A video of his actions He added: “Graduating to F1 learned, it is quite clear the be- father Dmitry. handicap for the team, saying: was posted to his Instagram ac- and being an F1 driver means all haviour you are meant to bring Asked how he felt about being “The team took that decision so count and later deleted. of a sudden you become a sort of with yourself and how you are seen as a driver who was in F1 I am sure there is a good reason Haas say they have handled example to a lot of young kids meant to act on social media and only because of his father’s for it.

NBA roundup: Nets’ James Harden stars in return to Houston JAMES Harden recorded his game. Tobias Harris scored 11 eighth triple-double of the sea- of his 22 points in overtime to son in his return to Houston, go along with 10 rebounds, and leading the Brooklyn Nets to a Ben Simmons added 17 points. 132-114 win and handing the Donovan Mitchell led the Rockets their 13th straight loss. Jazz with 33 points and eight Harden finished with team rebounds but was ejected in the highs in points (29) and assists final minute of overtime after (14) while adding 10 rebounds receiving his second technical and three steals. Two nights foul. after becoming the first player to record a 30-point, 10-rebound Portland Trail Blazers 108 - and 15-assist triple-double Golden State Warriors 106 without a turnover, Harden Damian Lillard swished a 29- committed eight giveaways foot 3-pointer with 14 seconds James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets throws one of his shoes into the crowd as he leaves the against Houston. remaining, then took a charg- court at Toyota Center on March 03, 2021 in Houston, Texas. John Wall finished with a ing foul on Draymond Green to season-high 36 points for the negate a potential game-tying out Kelly Oubre Jr., who highs of 28 points and nine as- eight of his shots from the floor, Rockets. Victor Oladipo added hoop with 4.1 seconds left, al- sprained a wrist at practice sists for Los Angeles, which set an NBA record with nine 33 points, including 18 in the lowing host Portland to over- Tuesday. played without LeBron James steals in the first half. The third quarter. Kyrie Irving fin- take and then hold off Golden (ankle) for the first time this league record for steals in a ished with 24 points and six as- State. Sacramento Kings 123 - Los season. Montrezl Harrell game is 11, shared by the San sists, and Bruce Brown added Lillard finished with 22 Angeles Lakers 120 matched his season high of 26 Antonio Spurs’ Larry Kenon 17 points, eight rebounds and points to tie Carmelo Anthony Harrison Barnes scored the points and collected 12 re- (1976) and the New Jersey seven assists for the Nets. for team-high honors for the decisive basket with 30.1 sec- bounds while Kyle Kuzma Nets’ Kendall Gill (1999). Trail Blazers, who won a second onds left to help Sacramento scored a season-best 25 points Malcolm Brogdon scored 29 Philadelphia 76ers 131 - straight after losing four in a wrap up a victory over visiting and grabbed a season-high- points for the Pacers, who sal- Utah Jazz 123 (OT) row. Robert Covington and Los Angeles. tying 13 rebounds. vaged the finale of a four-game Joel Embiid scored 40 points Gary Trent Jr. added 15 points Buddy Hield registered 29 road trip by snapping a season- and grabbed 19 rebounds to lift apiece, and Enes Kanter points, six rebounds and six as- Indiana Pacers 114 - high-tying, four-game losing host Philadelphia past Utah in recorded 11 points and 14 re- sists as Sacramento won for Cleveland Cavaliers 111 skid. Collin Sexton recorded overtime. The Sixers capital- bounds for Portland. just the second time in the past T.J. McConnell collected 16 32 points and 10 assists for ized on a late 8-0 run in OT to Stephen Curry totaled a 12 games. De’Aaron Fox had 23 points, 13 assists and a fran- the Cavaliers, who squandered seal the victory. game-high 35 points for the points and eight assists before chise-best 10 steals to lift a 17-point lead in the second It was the fifth game this sea- Warriors, who lost a second in fouling out, and Barnes scored Indiana to a victory at half and saw their season-high son that Embiid posted at least succession after three straight 20 points. Cleveland. four-game winning streak 40 points and 10 rebounds in a wins. Golden State played with- Dennis Schroder had season McConnell, who made all end. 28 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE ‘LaMelo Ball has Westbury Road, St Michael 2,520 sq ft $45,360 ‘exceeded our Goodland Gardens, Christ Church 9,605 sq ft $145,000 expectations’

TEL: 247-4469 Nursery Road, St Philip Cel: 253-6319 CHARLOTTE, NORTH Ball, who grew up 9,266 sq ft $139,000 828-4800 CAROLINA – Rookie watching Penny Email: LaMelo Ball has seized Hardaway and Jamal Lashley Road, St Philip the attention of the NBA Crawford highlights, sees caribbeanpropertiesltd 5,839 sq ft, $150,000 this season with his things on the court most @gmail.com highlight reel passes and players don’t. Salters, St George a surprising ability to He regularly delivers PROPERTIES 2 lots 32,760 sq ft, $230,000 score, including Charlotte on-time behind-the-back Hornets owner Michael passes leading to Kirtons, St Philip Jordan. transition layups, kick- Cave Hill Drive, St. Lucy 3 bedroom plus The six-time NBA outs for open 3-pointers 14,876 sq ft. $110,000 2 bedroom apt 4,790 sq ft champion said when the and alley-oop lobs for REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE Hornets selected Ball dunks off the pick-and- $685,000 Bushy Park, St. Philip Thorpes, St. James with the No. 3 overall roll, many of those going 17,000 sq ft $170,000 11,376 sq ft with structure Roebuck Street, pick they hoped the crafty to high-flying Miles Amity Lodge, Ch Ch $235,000 Bridgetown 6-foot-6 point guard Bridges, earning the duo 3 bedroom plus would eventually rise to the nickname “AirBnB.” Inchcape, St. Philip Shopping Mall/Office space 1 bedroom apt the level of becoming an Ball’s impact with the 4355 sq ft $ 96,000 Cottage, St George $8,100,000 negotiable 6,646 sq ft $650,000 All-Star. Hornets was almost 5000 sq ft Jordan likes the way immediate, becoming the Belle, St. George $110,000 (negotiable) Batts Rock, St Michael Gibbons, Ch Ch Ball is trending. youngest player in NBA 4 acres $400,000 Guest House, 12,078 sq ft “I think Melo has history to record a triple- 3 bedroom plus Morningside, St Philip $2,850,000 negotiable adjusted to the NBA double in just his 10th 2 bedroom apt Haggatt Hall, St. Michael 4567 sq ft $133,000 game better than any of NBA game. Still, it took 9,835 sq ft 6336 sq ft $126,000 Cane Garden, St Thomas us ever thought this early 20 games before Hornets $675,000 (reduced) in his career,” Jordan told coach James Borrego Under Offer Jupiter Gardens, St Peter 3.6 acres approved The Associated Press in inserted him into the 7312 sq ft Roadfront Breezy Hill, St Philip an email. “He has starting lineup following Cane Garden, St. Thomas $133,000 (negotiable) $1,650,000 negotiable 3 bedroom, 2 bath exceeded our expectations an injury to Devonte 7,000 sf to 18,000 sq ft reduced to $298,000 so far this season.” Graham. Private entrance. Bagatelle, St. Thomas Fitts Village, St James Ball leads all rookies in It’s unlikely Ball is From $187,681 62000 sq ft into 2 lots Guest House, 4 Suites most statistical giving up the position Black Rock, St Michael $520,000 each, or 6,135 sq ft categories, including anytime soon. 3 bedroom, 1 bath Ragged Point, St. Philip $1M for both $750,000 negotiable points (15.8), assists (6.3), The 19-year-old has 6732 sq ft $360,000 8,267 sq ft $166,000 rebounds (6) and steals only elevated his game in (1.6) per game. 15 starts, averaging 20.6 Marley Vale, St Philip Mason Hill Street The City Enterprise, Christ Church More importantly, Ball’s points, 6.6 assists and 6.2 Rolling Hills, St. George 21,780 sq ft $275,000 26,500 sq ft with buildings 3 bedroom, 2 bath game – which includes an rebounds and has already 12,000 sq ft $4,000,000 negotiable 5062 sq ft array of slick, needle- won NBA rookie of the $310,000 (negotiable) Sandford, St Philip threading passes – has month twice. $390,000 (reduced) 16,356 sq ft $300,000 All enquiries to brought some needed “Me being me, I’m Ocean City, St. Philip (246) 253 6319/ 828-4800 pizzazz and star potential never going to say putting The Belle, St George 6150 sq ft $123,000 COMMERCIAL or (246) 247 4469 to a franchise mired in me on the bench was Plantation style House obscurity for years. The something smart or good Standing on 4 acres Hornets are 17-18 to do,” Ball said. “It Fortesque, St Philip Mount Standfast, St James $1.1M NOTICES entering the All-Star always feels like when Agricultural Land Two properties on break, just a game behind I’m on the court I’m 494,500 sq ft $1,100,000 22,714 sq ft. the fourth place Boston helping. ... But I think Frere Pilgrim, NOTICE Asking $1,200,000 Celtics in the ultra-tight one of the reasons is Christ Church Silver Sands, SOCIETIES WITH RESTRICTED Eastern Conference. because we didn’t have no 3 bedroom, 2 baths with Christ Church Black Rock, St. Michael LIABILITY ACT, 1995-7 OF “He’s the real deal,” summer league, so he two bedroom apartment. THE LAWS OF BARBADOS 7,129 sq ft $160,000 Warehouse/Storage Jazz guard Donovan probably wanted to ease 4,387 sq ft. $850,000 (THE “SOCIETIES ACT”) Mitchell said. me into it.” 4000 sf space 23,861 sq ft Warriors forward Said Borrego: “His Bushy Park, St. Philip $900,000 (reduced) ET ACQUISITION Hanson Heights, St George COMPANY SRL Draymond Green recently growth, his fearlessness, 24,000 sq ft $190,000 8321 sq ft $595,000 tweeted “LaMelo is a his ability to bounce back Foul Bay, St. Philip NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN problem!” even when things don’t go Apes Hill, St. James Approved for condos, that the sole Member of ET “Right now, with the his way on one end of the Ealing Grove, ACQUISITION COMPANY SRL 31,000 sq ft upward 39,242 sq ft $1,600,000. way things look, he looks floor … he’s a special kid.” Christ Church have by Unanimous Resolution Large lots at $15 per sq ft of the Member, authorised and like NBA rookie of the Before the NBA draft 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths directed that the Society Dover, Christ Church year to me,” Mavericks three where were 9320 sq ft $565,000 be liquidated and dissolved coach Rick Carlisle said. concerns about Ball’s Mount Wilton, St. Thomas Hotel 18 rooms fully voluntarily, in accordance with “He’s getting it done unorthodox shooting form 15,500 sq ft and 22,066 sq ft operational $2,950,000 neg the provisions of section 30(b) of LOTS FOR SALE the Societies With Restricted statistically, their team is with a lower release point $300,000 and $220,000 under offer Liability Act, 1995-7 of The Laws winning. He’s got energy, than most. He’s proven of Barbados. Boarded Hall, he’s got a vibe, he’s got doubters wrong by Union, St. Philip Dalkeith, Christ Church swagger. If you like finding ways to create his Christ Church Dated the 3rd day of March, 2021. 7560 sq ft 17,371 sq ft approved for watching players that own shot while making 10,429 sq ft $157,000 $150,000 shops and offices Timothy Alan Tincknell play with flair, he’s right 37.8% from beyond the $495,000 MANAGER up there.” arc. The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 29

Rooney: Action needed against online ‘cowards’ LONDON – Derby manager Wayne children to explain why, in this day and Rooney says it is unfair for age, racism and discrimination still Colin Kazim-Richards, or anyone, to exists.” have to explain discrimination and Rooney said, “It’s sad we’re having to online abuse to their children; speak about these things. It feels like Rooney calls for the Championship every week, every day, there’s a different to encourage unity and present person getting some form of abuse. powerful anti-discrimination “It’s people who are sat at home, message together “as one” on their phones or computers – cowards Derby manager Wayne Rooney says the really. Derby manager Wayne Rooney. Colin Kazim-Richards. club supports players taking a knee “They’d never do it face-to-face, they’re in the fight against racial injustice – but doing it and not putting their name to it, message of the fight against racism. believes there should be guidance from and the quicker something can be sorted ‘We must act together with clear mes- “No one wants to see racism in football the EFL to ensure that there’s unity out to bring the identity of these sage’ or in any other walk of life,” Rooney said. across the league. individuals out, the better. Andre Wisdom, alongside Kazim- “I only noticed the last game that Andre Wayne Rooney has described those who “It’s not fair for Colin to sit at home and Richards, decided to stand rather than was standing up as well. send online abuse to players as “cowards” have to explain to his children. Not just take the knee prior to Derby’s defeat at “I think the league has to deal with it. after Colin Kazim-Richards was racially Colin, but for everyone else who has had Cardiff on Tuesday. There needs to be a message and that abused following Derby’s draw with some form of abuse, I can only imagine A number of players have questioned message needs to be as one – I don’t think Nottingham Forest last week. how difficult that is.” whether the impact of taking the knee it’s right that some teams are taking the Derby manager Rooney says action Derby assistant coach Liam Rosenior remains, with Crystal Palace winger knee and some teams aren’t. needs to be taken against people who send challenged the government to take action Wilfried Zaha saying he felt that taking “There maybe needs to be a different abuse online and that no one should over racism and other online abuse the knee was “degrading”. message which everyone sticks together have to explain such abuse to their following the targeting of Kazim-Richards Wilfried Zaha says taking a knee is ‘de- with. It creates some confusion why some children. last week. grading’ and that having ‘Black Lives players take the knee and some players Derby released a statement following Rosenior says the government must set Matter’ on the back of his shirt makes aren’t. the abuse received by Kazim-Richards, the tone for all other institutions from the him a target. “I think it’d be a more powerful message stating that it resulted in the forward very top to affect genuine change in Rooney believes that the Championship if everyone is doing the same action, what- “having a conversation with his young football and society. as a whole must act in unity to deliver the ever that is.” 30 • Friday March 5, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Claressa Shields bids for more history CLARESSA SHIELDS has compared est of all time, he would have never been her greatness to Muhammad Ali and considered the greatest. No matter what claimed “98% of men in the world boxer comes along, nobody can get in front can’t beat me”. of Muhammad Ali.That’s how I feel about History-making Shields is aiming to myself. further her legacy by winning an undis- “Muhammad Ali is first, and Claressa puted championship in a second weight Shields is second. I am the greatest division when she fights Marie-Eve woman of all time, and 98 per cent of men Dicaire tonight for every major super-wel- in the world can’t beat me. terweight belt. “I want you to know I’m not taking pris- She became the first American boxer oners. This is a new era for me. My name (male or female) to win gold medals at from now on is Claressa ‘The GWOAT’ consecutive Olympics then earned the Shields. [Previous nickname] ‘T-Rex’ has records for becoming a two and three- long gone. ‘T-Rex’ was aggressive, but the Claressa Shields bids for more history tonight. weight world champion in the fewest pro- greatest of all time has so much more. fessional fights. She possesses poise, power, and punch came against Britain’s Savannah name. Shields calls herself the ‘GWOAT’ placement. Marshall who, last October,became WBO “But if she wants to come see me? Then (Greatest Woman of All Time) – she has “In an interview, I saw [Dicaire] is not middleweight champion. come see me. I’ll shut her and her team up been outspoken on social issues such as worried about the outcome; she’s worried Marshall dished out a one-sided stop- because they do too much talking for me!” George Floyd’s death and, more recently, about the task.Well, I’m worried about the page of Hannah Rankin, an opponent who the gender pay-gap in women’s boxing. outcome. I’ve known what the task is for had gone the distance with Shields. Why a female heavyweight can rule Her latest powerful speech, before the the last 13 months. Shields previously told Sky Sports the world fight against Dicaire, was: “I don’t box for “I’m concerned about the outcome be- about settling the score with Marshall: Shields is headlining in her hometown of a hobby.It’s not a hobby.It’s my career,and cause I don’t particularly appreciate los- “Savannah isn’t a better fighter than me, Flint, Michigan, tonight and is signifi- I feel like people underestimate me when ing. When I lost my first fight when I was and that’s been proven. cantly topping an all-female card of fights. I speak about how great I am. 17, I didn’t sleep until I was 21 when I won “It is so sad for her that she wanted to Danielle Perkins, the former basketball “But if I didn’t say how great I am, no my second Olympics. That’s how person- wait for my belt to become vacant, rather professional who survived a coma and the one in this room would have ever called ally I take this fight. than fight me for it. trauma of a car accident to now become a me great because they don’t recognise it. “I’m hoping she can bring out a differ- “That’s so soft. She could have fought for heavyweight force, is in action against Only the greats know that they’re great. ent side of me because many girls haven’t all the belts at 160lbs to show how tough Monika Harrison. “Like Muhammad Ali. Nobody called been able to take me to level three. I’m she really is. “It’s important for equality across the him the greatest of all time.They actually hoping she can take me to level 10.” “Savannah’s coach Peter Fury said she’s board,” Perkins told Sky Sports.“We need called him the ‘Louisville Lip’ because he too strong for me? Shut up, shut up! to have a female heavyweight division for talked too much. Shields vs Marshall rematch? “Savannah hasn’t been challenged the Tyson Furys, the Anthony Joshuas, “If he had never said he was the great- The amateur defeat when Shields was 17 enough yet for her to even be saying my the Deontay Wilders.” The Barbados Advocate Friday March 5, 2021 • 31

P R O HOROSCOPES S A Aries – A friend or colleague will ask you to do one N too many favours. You rarely turn other people down D but before you know it you will be swimming against a tide of demands that suddenly swamps your world. C Be sensible and encourage others to get on with their O own responsibilities. You can't be expected to do N everything. S Taurus – There will be shared advantages in pooling skills and resources. A community project will be the chance you have been hoping for to share ideas about improving your neighbourhood. Double check if you can't remember dates or details of arrangements al- ready made. An older neighbour will help you come to terms with some strange developments. Z Gemini – Follow instructions to the letter when car- I rying out new routines. Mistakes can be avoided with care. A group situation will just drift along when you T won't want to get seriously caught up in any one thing. S Ultimately, it will be up to you to make the most of op- portunities that open up for you.

Cancer – You are easily distracted and you will be very sensitive to outside stimuli. Whether you are re- searching, studying or working on a complicated task, avoid places that are loud or busy. If you are working in an environment that brings you close to risky sub- stances, get regular medical check-ups. R E Leo – Others are starting to see your wonderful sense X of humour. Instead of being stubborn and determined to get your own way, you're encouraging others to go with what they feel is right. You're tired of always M being the serious one and even though this interlude O won't last long, you will, in the right frame of mind, R enjoy it. G A Virgo – You're worrying too much about not being N good enough for a new role or obligation. You're the only one who thinks this. Others will show they have absolute confidence in your abilities. Your concern stems from not wanting to let people down. Once you get started you will realise you are more than capable of this position.

Libra – Play for time when asked for an opinion in a P situation that is causing contention. A domestic or H workplace dispute will cloud all other affairs. You don't want to get involved and there is every chance A this situation will be resolved without you having to N take sides. Much to your relief you can avoid giving T an opinion. O M Scorpio – People who can't make up their mind will contribute to the tension you already seem to be feel- ing. It's hard to relax when anxiety rears its head. You may long to find your own private space or to mix only with those who are sensitive to your feelings. Talking your problems through will be a big help. Sagittarius – Nothing goes right the first time you try M it. Arguments in a team effort will prevent progress. A Work commitments will interfere with family plans. It might seem as if for every step forward you take, R you're taking two paces backwards. Don't give in. Y Eventually you will start seeing results. W Capricorn – There is something you wish you had O done differently. Better still, you might prefer you hadn't done it at all. Retrospective action can't change R what has already happened but it can stop you mak- T ing the same mistake again. Since you're in the mood H to reminisce, be sure to learn from lessons of the past.

Aquarius – The air will be cleared after a heart-to- heart discussion. A close friend or loved one will em- brace your honesty and you no longer feel obliged to M hide your thoughts and feelings. You realise that too O many things have been left unsaid in the past and you T won't make the same mistake again. H E Pisces – It will be no bother for you to volunteer to do R a job no one else wants to do. This may not be an ex- citing task but neither is it difficult. Someone will be G relieved to put this matter into your safe hands. O Relationships are happy and harmonious. O Communications with people at a distance will lead to an exciting agreement. S E West Indies looking for consistency Page 25

Friday March 5, 2021

Government still committed to Job NOT ABANDONED! Start Plus programme THE Ministry of Labour and Social country,” Jordan added. Partnership Relations will not be Under the Job Start Plus initiative, the abandoning its Job Start Plus Ministry previously indicated that it was Programme, which seeks to give looking for employers associated with young people between the ages of 16 large and small businesses, to provide and 24 work experience. guidance and work experience to Minister of Labour, Social Partnership prospective candidates that could lead to Relations and the Third Sector, Colin future employment opportunities. It was Jordan, gave this assurance recently, as also hoped that skilled tradesmen, he spoke on the topic “COVID-19: Your craftsmen and artisans would have come Workplace and You”. forward to facilitate the initiative. Areas “Job Start Plus is a programme that we of interest included, but were not limited started some time ago, to assist young to, agri-business, arts and craft, people in getting their foot into the door. automotive, food and dining, general We have heard for a really, really long services, professional services, time, young people saying, ‘We have information and communication applied for a job, we’ve been asked for technologies, cosmetology,transportation, 12 months or two years experience, but health and the building trades. nobody ever gives us the job to begin The Third Sector – commonly known with, so how can we get the experience?’ as non-governmental organisations, So we developed Job Start Plus, which is civil society and community-based what we call a first jobs programme,” organisations – was also called upon to be Minister Jordan remarked. a part of the initiative, so that the youth “Even though we are in the midst of involved could gain experience in a pandemic, even though we have a volunteerism and philanthropy. reduction in economic activity, we have The Labour Ministry, after not abandoned Job Start Plus. The undertaking a needs assessment of Ministry is still working hard to get candidates, has meanwhile indicated employers on board, so that in some cases that it will provide, amongst other things, they may (not) be able to assist us now, mandatory career counselling, training but we believe that there is life after and work preparation sessions that will COVID and so, for the country, once we address the development of core skills are out of this COVID pandemic, we relevant to each job, as well as soft skills expect that those who have come on – appropriate attitudes and aptitudes board now, will be able to hit the ground Minister of Labour, Social Partnership Relations and the Third Sector, Colin not just for the job market, but for life. running to assist us and to assist the Jordan. (RSM) Meet conditions to receive vaccines, PAHO Chief urges region THE Pan American Health May 2021. A total of 28.7 million doses according to Dr. Etienne, who also Caicos are finally reporting a drop in Organisation (PAHO) is urging Member will be delivered to countries in the admitted that the same challenge is COVID cases and deaths. States to make sure that all conditions Americas in this period. Barbados and faced with vaccines. “Every country in Central America is are met to receive the long-awaited the Eastern Caribbean will be allocated “Manufacturers are working around also reporting a drop in cases, although doses of the COVID-19 vaccine through the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine – the clock to produce more doses, and the virus is still surging in localised the COVAX Facility. 100,800 doses to Barbados; 74,400 doses new vaccine candidates are being hotspots around El Salvador, the Director, Dr. Carissa Etienne, said to St. Lucia; 40,800 doses to Antigua reviewed and included in the WHO indigenous province of Guna Yala in some countries have already made and Barbuda; 21,600 doses to Saint Emergency Use Listing, so more Panama and Guatemala’s northern necessary preparations, and PAHO is Kitts and Nevis; 45,600 doses to vaccines will hopefully be available municipalities. Infections continue to placing orders and preparing COVAX Grenada; 28,800 doses to Dominica; and soon. But we expect the world will drop across South America, although we deliveries, with shipments likely to 45,600 doses to Saint Vincent and the continue to face a shortage of vaccines remain concerned by a rise in cases arrive in mid-March. However, a few Grenadines. for much of 2021.” within the northern Amazon basin that countries still need to approve COVAX “As more doses are produced, we’ll see The PAHO Chief also reported that demands a swift response,” she warned. contracts, ensure they have the proper several waves of shipments arriving in over the last week, more than 1.1 million “The diversity of scenarios across the regulations in place and make the region every month. In the short people in the Americas were infected Americas reminds us that complacency payments. term, doses will remain limited. And we with COVID-19 and nearly 34,000 died can be deadly.Without effective control “We urge our Member States to make must use them wisely, prioritising those because of the virus. measures, in just a couple of weeks, this a priority, so they can receive these most at risk, like our health workers, She said the good news is that in infection and hospitalisation rates can long-awaited doses,” she insisted during the elderly and people living with pre- many places, cases and deaths are on spike drastically. We must continue to PAHO’s weekly virtual press briefing existing conditions.” the decline. In North America, the US, monitor infection rates closely and rely on Wednesday. Throughout the pandemic, every Canada, and Mexico are seeing drops on proven public health measures when Last Friday, COVAX informed all country in the world has grappled with in new infections. In the Caribbean, the virus surges. This will be our reality participating countries about the shortages of essential medical supplies after enforcing stricter public health for many months until we have enough number of doses allocated to each like medicines, diagnostic tests, personal measures, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent vaccines for everyone, and until we have COVAX participant from now through protective equipment, even oxygen, and the Grenadines and Turks and controlled the transmission.” (TL)

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