EXCELLENT RESPONSE See inside for your feature on the late Prof. the Rt. Hon. Owen Arthur - UFDC ...
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Established October 1895 See inside
for your feature
on the late Prof.
the Rt. Hon.
EXCELLENT RESPONSE
Owen Arthur
Sunday August 16, 2020 $2 VAT Inclusive
By Marsha Gittens 140 lots and some of the lots were bought
prior to the day’s event. Duguid shared
BARBADIANS did not miss out on an that the 62 lots remaining were sold on the
opportunity to own a piece of the day within two hours. The lots on offer
rock as scores of them attended the were priced at “$18 per square foot”.
National Housing Corporation’s “Let me thank the people of Barbados
(NHC) Land Fair on Saturday. for coming out and giving tremendous
It was reported that from as early as support to what would have been our first
8:30 in the morning individuals were land fair here at Deanstown Heights. As
present at Deanstown Heights, St. James I understand it … within two hours 62 lots
making their assessment of the land sold here for the National Housing
which overlooks Westmoreland Corporation and I am very, very happy at
Development. Lots ranging from 5000 to the tremendous support that was given to
10 000 square feet were being sold.The set us to start this project with the first 62 lots.
time for the Fair was 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 That brings a total of 140 lots here that
p.m. have been made available for housing here
Speaking to the media, Minister of at Deanstown Heights. I am very, very
Housing, Lands and Maintenance, happy with the support and I think it
Dr. William Duguid said Saturday’s Fair gives us a tremendous start to be able to
was the first in a series of land fairs the house the nation,” he stated.
NHC plans to have.The section comprised LAND FAIR on Page 3
Persons taking a close look at the site map as they decided which of the
available lots they preferred.
LEFT: Minister of Housing, Lands and Maintenance, Dr. William Duguid, told the
Makeover of the public service is greatly needed
media he was very happy with the response given to the day’s Land Fair.
POORLY performing public sector They stand in the way of new innovations said in a video statement. term.
agencies must be reformed. and new projects within the public and Speaking on the revitalisation of the Regarding financial incentives, Stuart
Issuing this call, President of the Young private sector and the reason for slow economy onto a more sustainable path, noted while the Fiscal Incentives Bill
Democrats, Kemar Stuart, highlighted implementation may vary but they he said both regional and international paved the way for great foreign direct
such a move was critical if the island was almost always relate to some type of co-operation was greatly needed to move investment to come into the island “that
truly serious about raising the standards failure within the public sector. forward in these uncertain times. was yesteryear” as it had repealed the
of doing business and improving the “A makeover of the public service is “If we look at Barbados economic and legislation.
economy. greatly needed sooner rather than later investment policies, there is a clear void “Low tax regimes are constantly under
“Renewed growth in the Barbados to raise the standards to that of the US, for the facilitation of a more robust attack by the OECD and a greater
economy, depends on the removal of UK and Canada where our public investment culture in Barbados and this competitive package is needed within the
complex and antiquated processes within servants are internationally competitive. may very well be the light in the midst of regulations of course, where Barbados
government’s administrative process. Our public service needs to bid on the COVID pandemic,” he said, noting can have a sustained approach to
Poorly performing government contracts internationally where it earns attention needed to be paid to the attracting foreign direct investment
departments, state-owned corporations foreign exchange and becomes a country’s infrastructure to help Barbados through more financial encouragement,”
and agencies are in need of much reform. contributor to government’s finances,” he unlock growth in the medium- to long- he advised.
2 • Sunday August 16, 2020 The Barbados Advocate
The Barbados Advocate Sunday August 16, 2020 • 3
NHC’s Land
Fair draws
tremendous
response from
the public
LAND FAIR from Front fair will be soon.
Page “The second one we will
The Housing Minister be having will be
attributed the excellent Lancaster Phrase 3 and
public response to the we hope to break ground
day’s Fair to the need by on that next month and as
Barbadians for housing soon as we break ground,
solutions. we will have another land
“Clearly, we see that fair like this and that is a
there is great need for over total 183 lots and once we
60 lots to be sold in two get those lots going we
hours. There is great need hope that people will be
for housing solutions in able to get their housing
Barbados and we are starts going as quickly as
going to work hard to be possible to get that next
able to meet that need for 183 lots into production
the people of Barbados,” it for people to get shelter
was further pointed out. here in this country,” he Clerical Officer with NHC, Claire Holder, responding to queries from members of the public about the lots on
He said the next land added. sale at Deanstown Heights, St. James.
NHC Stenographer, Jonelle Rollock responding to queries from the public about the lots on sale at the Land Fair.
Persons with derelict houses, vacant land urged to partner with NHC
By Marsha Gittens “We are encouraging people who have and then share the proceeds… It is a new “People often say that we have a
derelict houses or who have vacant land, and innovative programme that we are database with 32 000 people who have
THE National Housing Corporation it doesn’t have to be a large piece, it can working on and we are asking people applied for housing solutions. We are
(NHC) plans to roll out a new be a single house spot or a single house, who are interested in coming and working on that to see if we can make
initiative where it will partner with we are encouraging them to come and partnering with the National Housing that better. To weed out all the doubles
Barbadians to put up their derelict give us your information. Those of you Corporation to call in and we will start to and triples and try to get that in terms of
houses or vacant land for rent. who want to work with the National put that programme together for vacant who still wants [in order] and we have a
Minister of Housing, Lands and Housing Corporation,” it was explained. and derelict houses and vacant lots.” programme working on that to get a more
Maintenance, Dr. William Duguid, He added, “We are putting together a Duguid said in addition to the new accurate database, that is the first thing.
explained the details of this programme policy so that together with those home initiative, the NHC is working on a The second thing, we recognise that
as he spoke to the media at Deanstown owners those derelict houses, we will programme to bring its database which people have great needs and we are
Heights, St. James on Saturday where come in make an arrangement with you, comprises persons who have applied for trying to meet that need as best as we
the NHC held its Land Fair. fix up the house, put it available for rent housing solutions up-to-date. can.”
4• Sunday August 16, 2020 The Barbados Advocate
Community Volunteers who took part in the DEM’s Exercise Montgomery yesterday.
DEM Director Kerry Hinds said the organisation’s
Call for more community
partnerships reduced the impact of the lack of
specific resources.
volunteers to join DEOs
AS the hurricane various DEOs, and noted
season hits the midway in the case there was a lack
mark, the Department of specific resources, the
of Emergency DEM’s partnerships with
Management (DEM) is other units aided in
signalling its continued making up the shortfall.
state of readiness. “You may find at some
Forecasters have points in time, you may
predicted an extremely lack resources in certain
active hurricane season, areas, hence the reason
and with Tropical Storms why we have various
Josephine and Kyle memoranda of
already churning in the understanding with other
Atlantic, DEM Director agencies and other bodies
Kerry Hinds said her to supplement what we
organisation is constantly have at the national level.
refining its plans and This is the reason why we
procedures to be able to engage partners such at
meet the needs of the Roving Response
Barbadians or our regional Team, the same District
brothers and sisters in the Emergency Organisations
case of a disaster, in and other entities who may
whatever form it may take. have resources that can be
“We are ever mindful of brought to bear on the
the fact that although we system,” she said, adding
are in the hurricane that there was still room
season, there are other for improvement.
hazards we need to treat She made the comments
to. Currently, our countries to the media yesterday as
have been affected by in its efforts to ensure its
Covid-19 and as such we community volunteers are
would have tweaked a ready to respond in the
number of our hurricane case of a disaster, the DEM
procedures to reflect the hosted a simulation
Covid-19 implications,” she exercise called ‘Exercise
added. Montgomery’ at Queen’s
With 29 out of 30 of the College for 104 of these
District Emergency individuals.
Organisations up and The operation focused on
running, Hinds once again the volunteers’ responses
expressed the desire for before and in the aftermath
more community of the island being struck
volunteers to join the by a storm watch. (JMB)
The Barbados Advocate Sunday August 16, 2020 • 5
Appeal to repay loans from Fund
DONATION from Back some 90 laptops, at an assistance to Barbadians Ministry in achieving its
Page approximate cost of who wished to further goal of providing
$100,000, is testimony to their education to electronic devices to
so as our tag line says, what government-owned tertiary level, but were students from
so they can invest in entities can achieve.” constrained by limited needy households or
themselves,” he stated. Meanwhile, financial resources, Dr. families.
Emphasising that the Parliamentary Secretary Springer said it could Since its
Fund was “particularly in the Ministry, Senator only remain viable and establishment, some 43
pleased” to make the Dr. Romel Springer, in fulfil its mandate, “if years ago, the Student
presentation, Mr. welcoming the donation those who have benefited Revolving Loan Fund has
Johnson said: “When we of the 90 laptops, made from it, honour their approved loans in excess
think about charitable an appeal to those moral and legal of $325 million, enabling
donations, we usually Barbadians who had responsibility of repaying more than 14,000
think in terms of the benefited from the Fund outstanding funds in a Barbadian students to
private sector, but the to repay those loans. timely manner”. pursue a diversity of
fact that as a state-owned Stating that the aim of He added that the 90 programmes, in various
enterprise we can donate the Fund was to provide laptops would assist the parts of the world
Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of
Education, Senator Dr. Romel Springer (right), and
Administrative Manager with the Student
Revolving Loan Fund, Ambrose Johnson, during
the donation of laptops by the Fund, to the
Thorne
Ministry of Education.
NOTICE TO EMPLOYERS
Commission
Employers who have submitted termination of services/lay-off
invites St. John
certificates for their employees and are now extending the period of
residents to
lay-off/or rehiring their employees are advised to complete the
NIS Employer Spreadsheet which can be found at
virtual meeting
http://www.nis.gov.bb/employers/nis-employer-spreadsheet/.
IT IS the turn of St. Thorne.Commission@ Employers should submit that spreadsheet to
John residents today barbados.gov.bb and
Sunday, August 16, to providing their full name employer.queries@bginis.gov.bb.
share their ideas and address.
with the Thorne The link to join the
Commission on Local online town hall event
Governance about will be forwarded to the Employers are also advised to provide their employees with copies
the establishment e-mail addresses
of community-based prior to the meeting. of the termination of services/lay-off certificates bearing the period
People’s Assemblies in Questions and written
Barbados. submissions are also
Persons interested in welcomed. of extension.
participating may The meeting will
register for the Zoom run from 5:00 to 7:00
Daryll Jordan
meeting by emailing p.m.
The NIS thanks you for your cooperation!
Secondary extends
book return dates
Please also visit our website at www.nis.gov.bb
Follow us on:
MANAGEMENT of the additional days.
Daryll Jordan Secondary These are tomorrow,
School at Trents, St. Lucy, August 17, and Tuesday,
advises parents and August 18. All nisbds nisbarbados nisbarbados
students that allowance outstanding books from
has been made all form levels will be
for them to return collected between 9:00
textbooks on two a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Fitting farewell for late PM
6 • Sunday August 16, 2020 The Barbados Advocate
By Regina Selman Moore grew up in St. Peter and and his leadership. loved simplicity and pri-
who faithfully served the “Owen Arthur taught vacy, but yet required and
THIS island’s fifth and people of that constituency his Cabinet and his public defended form, pomp and
longest serving Prime for well over thirty years, is officials so many lessons ceremony, as critical ele-
Minister, Professor, The finally at rest in his in public policy and fiscal ments of nation building.
Rt. Honourable Owen beloved parish. discipline. His was a true He loved the countryside
Arthur was recently ac- His cousin, Dr. Elliot understanding that you and relished being de-
corded a State Funeral, Douglin, in reflecting on only see real progress scribed as “a country boy”.
with all the “pomp and his life from a boy of hum- when it comes from sound And the country boy loved
pageantry” befitting ble beginnings, to a man policy. In the Barbados cooking – from pepper pot
his outstanding contri- who rose to political Labour Party, we have all and wilts to sorrel!”
bution to his beloved heights, recalled that the been genuine graduates of It was meanwhile noted
Barbados. former Coleridge and the Tom Adams/Bernard by both speakers, that
Indeed, it was a fitting Parry student who com- St. John/Henry Forde family meant the world to
farewell for the late Prime pleted his ‘A’ Levels at School of Governance – Owen Arthur, who dearly
Minister who passed away Harrison College, success- that Great Combination. loved his wife Julie, his
at the Queen Elizabeth fully read for his first de- Owen Arthur fully em- daughters Sabrina and
Hospital on July 27th, gree from the University braced their love and ap- Leah and his grand-
2020. On the day of the of the West Indies at Cave preciation for the power of daughter Isabelle, on
funeral service, Friday Hill, in Economics, History public policy and passed it whom he doted.
August 14th, Barbadians and Management. He on to a new generation.All The Barbados Advocate
eagerly lined the streets to later received a postgradu- of his Ministers defended joins with the rest of the
witness the cortege take a ate scholarship, which led the integrity of Cabinet country in bidding him Valmay Arthur, sister of the late Owen Arthur, as
stately journey from the him to UWI Mona in government and the high good bye, farewell. May he she was assisted by Defence Force Personnel
Lyndhurst Funeral Home Jamaica. After his return office which he held, not rest in peace. during the funeral service.
in Passage Road, St. to Barbados in 1981, for the sake of himself, but
Michael, through Arthur began working in for the preservation of the
Bridgetown where a one- the Ministry of Finance sanctity of the office and
minute stop was made at under former Prime the unwritten rule that
the Parliament Buildings Minister Tom Adams. you must protect that of-
where Arthur spent a sig- Then in 1984, he became a fice at all costs,” Mottley
nificant portion of his Member of Parliament, indicated.
years, whether in power or representing the Barbados “Owen’s insistence on
in opposition, then past Labour Party, which he the need for clarity of pur-
Kensington Oval, given his would later lead as Prime pose in the settlement of
love for cricket and his re- Minister, from 1994 until policy, spoke to a tidy and
development of that Oval, 2008. logical mind. His eye for
then along the Mighty Arthur was remembered detail and the need for the
Grynner Highway and by Dr. Douglin as a hard efficient use of resources
Highway One, headed for worker, a man filled with in the implementation of
Speightstown. patriotism, as he loved his policy are valuable lessons
In keeping with his final country and the people needed for any person in-
wishes, the church service therein and indeed, he was terested in public life, any
was held at the St. Peter’s committed to improving part of the world,” Mottley
Parish Church, beginning the lives of all Barbadians. maintained.
at 2 p.m., and it was fol- He was also one who The Prime Minister
lowed by the interment at fought for regional integra- went on to state that,“And
the Mount Pleasant tion. as for the man! Owen was
Memorial Gardens in St. Prime Minister Mia equally a man of great
Peter, located east of the Amor Mottley, who deliv- complexity. But that was
All Saint’s Primary School, ered a Tribute during the what made him such a
where the late Prime funeral service, stressed forceful personality. He
Minister received his early that there were many les- had a passion for the pub- Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley, as she joined the cortege en
education. Arthur, who sons to learn from Arthur lic causes he adopted. He route to the St. Peter’s Parish Church.
The casket bearing the body of the late Professor, The Rt. Honourable Owen
Widow Julie Arthur (centre) takes in the proceedings of her late husband’s Arthur, as it was carried through the streets on its way to the church, during
State Funeral, with Owen Arthur’s daughters Sabrina (right) and Leah. his State Funeral.
Possible way
The Barbados Advocate Sunday August 16, 2020 • 7
forward
suggested
SPACE from Back Page
Ambassador Thompson in her re-
marks thanked Dr. Jhagroo and the
BSP’s Subcommittee for the invita-
tion. She also congratulated the
Society on its success over the years
and highlighted a possible way for-
ward for the organisation.
“You have the capacity with expansion
to sell your services and your skills and
bring people into Barbados to get access
to those services and skills. That way not
only will we spread our reputation as a
brand for excellence in health care and
your own, but it certainly will generate
much needed foreign exchange at a time
when coming out of COVID-19 we are
going to have to be asking ourselves how
as a country do we earn money and keep
the country economy going. I think that
you have proven that you really do have
the will and the capacity to deliver on a
vision and to deliver on the implementa-
tion of a programme that is transforma-
tional not only in the context of the indi-
viduals who will access the services but
in terms of their development of the con- Medical Coordinator with the Barbados Cancer Society, Dr. Shirley Jhagroo (right) in conversation with Barbados’
tribution to national development and Ambassador to the United Nations (UN), Liz Thompson (left) and Radiographer, Johana Romero after looking at the
the national healthcare service.” (MG) digital mammogram machine.
8 • Sunday August 16, 2020 The Barbados Advocate
Buffalo soldier – Part seven
‘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
Finding the
correct balance
I SUPPOSE we’d say that black on black
Barbados is a ‘Christian favouritism. What’s new?
country’. Would we? For Then he told me of his an-
me that would mean cestor, who was born a
more than church-going. slave. There’s a plaque to
It would mean, at the him at St. John’s Church.
least, practising what It reads: “ADAM STRAW
THE recent electorally rejected Democratic Labour Pope Francis has called a WATERMAN, A GREAT
Party governing administration made it a point of “life plan”. Yes: “I was BARBADIAN, 1803-1887.
honour to emphasise that Barbados was more than hungry and you gave me Born into slavery. Set
an economy, but was a society too. food; I was thirsty and free as a young man.
Some people might argue fairly that these two you gave me drink; I was Apprenticed to a mason,
concepts are not mutually exclusive; that Barbados a stranger and you in- So I did what I usually ested in filling people’s he developed great skill
is indeed both an economy and a society and that vited me in; I needed do when I want to under- bellies… that people have as a builder and a reputa-
to concentrate on one while ignoring the other will clothes… I was sick… I stand. I asked around: the comfort when they sleep tion for his sensitive work
lead to either a wealthy dystopia or an economically was in prison… (Matt plumber, the postman, at night, that their chil- with sawn coral stone.
depressed polity. 25:35-45). In short, it’s the supervisor, the vet, dren have satisfaction St. John’s Church, rebuilt
Currently, owing to the immediate sequelae of love in action, not just to the priest, the doctor, the that they are going to in- in 1836, is one of his
the global pandemic, Barbados finds itself in the think or spout about. small businessman, and herit something in the outstanding works.”
midst of an economic recession and, as if to Ours is a passionate many more. Well, my re- land of their birth, and Beautiful, yes?
demonstrate the validity of the argument above, spirit. It may mean over- spondents, with one ex- until we come to that Then my friend
some relatively recent events have also borne turning the tables in the ception, didn’t speak of point we are having an Merlene. She was the first
witness to an alarming incidence of anomie and Temple. Do you recognise love. Their approach was artificial debate.” person I spoke to. “Look,”
antisocial conduct among our very young. any of that? Well, it the seasoned, no-non- One respondent, gen- she said, “God made us
In recent days there have been reports of a group caused me to wonder sense, all-or-nothing, erally: “I’ve got better all. We all need each other
of pre-adolescent youngsters beating one of their how Christians in this pragmatic, on times judg- things to do.” Another, of and we all matter. There’s
playmates into a vegetative state; a pre-teen child ‘Christian country’ were mental, approach which, Nelson: “He was there no light without shade,
stabbing his older sister to death; and some youths, responding to the out- religion apart, is so often when I was born. He’ll be nor shade without light.
for no apparent reason except maybe their own pouring of racial hatred the ‘Bajan way’. My ques- there when I die. I’m re- They complement each
amusement, deciding to assault sundry homeless against white people and tion: ‘What’s your re- ally not bothered.” More other. We’re all one.” She
men and having it recorded on social media for institutions at and follow- sponse to everything pragmatism on support- then thanked me for
posterity. ing the first protest you’ve seen, read, heard?’ ing black businesses: “So listening, and I thanked
And, all the while, the horrifying spate of random march as recorded in the No one mentioned long as they have what I her for cheering me up.
killings by firearms persists with a seemingly Press. It depressed me. George Floyd. Odd: that’s want, I don’t care whether Oneness.
intractable frequency. Why wouldn’t it? I’m what the protests were they’re black, white, or One last. He’d been a
We really must do better, if we are to deserve the white and British, after supposed to be about. At polka dot.” On ‘inferior- protester in the ’80’s, he
high reputation we appear to hold of ourselves to all. In 25 years, here I’d root, I suppose, my re- ity’: “I know who I am. Do said. “Look to see who’s
the point where we prefer to regard the recent US never heard or read any- sponders reflected the they?” Of slavery: “This is leading the protests. Then
travel advisory as a national affront, rather than thing like that. My fear spirit of Minister Kerrie today. That was the day you’ll understand.” Kabir
either as a genuine attempt by the US to close its was that it would all rub Symmonds’ powerful before yesterday. We’re in was right. Truth seeking
borders to its citizens or even as an unwitting sop off, that life would change pragmatism (Advocate, charge now.” And yes, is like a battle, isn’t it? As
to protect our relatively efficient handling of the here irrevocably. Were the 26 June): “I am now at even on ‘smelling a rat’: long as life lasts, it never
virus. ‘haters’ really speaking an age and stage in life “What’s really going on?” ends.
The truth is that we are so accustomed to viewing for everyone or just for where I am not interested One respondent, with Go safely, until the next
travel advisories issued by the US and the UK as themselves, a narrow sect in the optics. You could vast experience in busi- time.
condemnatory of the object nation that we have with veiled agendas using pull down a thousand ness, recounted stories John Lewis, from the
Mexico needs 200 million COVID-19
reacted to this one with knees a-jerking and hackles the murder of George statues and it will fill no- of white on white boundary: “I believe in
raised, rather than with deliberate thought. Floyd to push them? body’s belly. I am inter- favouritism – and then forgiveness.”
But this is to digress from our immediate thesis;
vaccine doses; shots could start in April
that we have to get both our economy and our
society back on track.
The current spate of crime has raised once more
the hoary suggestion that the administration of
corporal punishment is the answer to our woes.
This is unsurprising. Despite cogent evidence to the
contrary, there is a pervasive local superstition MEXICO CITY – Mexico Latin America. quire two doses to be ef- hind the United States
that a good “cut-tail” is the sole antidote to youthful, will need up to 200 mil- AstraZeneca is among fective, Delgado said. and Brazil. Latin
and adult, indiscretions of whatever hue. lion coronavirus vaccine those working on COVID- “If we need 200 million, America’s 6 million cases
We have also seen suggestions of placing a doses, according to a sen- 19 vaccine candidates we’re going to be vaccin- and more than 237,000
vicarious responsibility on parents for the wrongful ior government official, now in development ating for a long time,” deaths make it the
acts of their children. The concept is not unknown, and inoculation of its 120 around the world. Delgado added. world’s hardest-hit re-
although it has been restricted so far to the liability million inhabitants could Mexico’s government Last-stage so-called gion.
of employers for their employees’ acts in the course start as early as April if also has said it is con- Phase III trials are ex- To ensure all Mexicans
of employment and of principals for the acts of clinical trials and reg- sidering other options pected to conclude by have access to a vaccine,
their agents done for the principal’s benefit. ulatory approvals for for bringing a vaccine November or December, President Andres Manuel
We are of the view that despite the allure of the pharmaceutical firm quickly to its population, after which AstraZeneca Lopez Obrador’s govern-
concept, principles of fairness militate against it.A AstraZeneca Plc go as the second-largest in will seek government ment is in talks with
parent may do only so much to influence his or her planned. Latin America. approvals if the vaccine other pharmaceutical
child’s conduct, but the combined influences of the In partnership with AstraZeneca will be is found to be safe and laboratories in different
child’s peers, his or her education in the broad the governments of able to produce between effective. If that goes stages of developing a
sense, and their psychological make-up may all Mexico and Argentina, 30 and 35 million vac- smoothly, Delgado esti- vaccine.
act as intervening causes between the parental AstraZeneca initially cines per month, Martha mated the first vaccines “Astra’s production isn’t
instruction and the conduct to be censured. plans to produce 150 mil- Delgado, a Mexican in Mexico could be admin- going to be enough for
It may eventually be a matter for an already lion doses in early 2021 deputy foreign minister, istered in April. Mexico. We need to sup-
laden public discourse agenda, but we yearn for an and eventually make at told Reuters in an inter- Mexico’s death toll of plement that with a cou-
impression that officialdom is keen to confront least 400 million doses for view on Friday. 55,908 stands as the ple of more vaccines,”
existing social ills, in much the same way it has distribution throughout The vaccine could re- world’s third highest, be- Delgado said.
emphasised the importance of the various aspects
of the economy, with the array of ministers and Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes
Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke
consultants under that portfolio, to add to the E-mail Address: news@barbadosadvocate.com
Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen
Sports Editor: Corey Greaves
discrete ministries dedicated to the green, blue Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com
Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan
and creative economies. A balance is essential.
@The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate
Image and truth – the curse of the contest
The Barbados Advocate Sunday August 16, 2020 • 9
I LOVE America. It is not President did not answer painted as liars, thieves tem will return.
the paradise with streets the question. Kid Site sang and everything else that is However, if the Trump
of gold that they like to sell a calypso in which he wrong or nasty.They prob- policies are rewarded with
the world, but it is an ex- listed a number of things ably have themselves to his re-election, there may
ceptional country in some that would only occur in thank for the negative never be a return to polit-
ways. Barbados. Only in America image that now pervades ical stability there.
It is not guns, bombs would a journalist ask the the class which they have The Caribbean, for the
and money that make a leader of the country a created for themselves. most part, has had a
country great. That power question that would be Adversarial politics will similar political history,
might scare others and regarded as disrespectful always throw up divisions. having, like America,
buy deference, but all elsewhere. Whether real or artificial inherited a form of their
countries that were mate- For many people, politics is immaterial. What is im- Westminster parentage. It
rially rich and militarily is synonymous with lies. prepared to say so and not him because of his declara- portant is the establish- should not be assumed,
powerful eventually caved, If this is not true, it is dif- fear any consequences was tion, “I speak for the peo- ment and nurturing of a however, that prevarica-
whether through external ficult to find many people a thing of beauty. ple.” mature culture which is tion is necessarily inher-
or internal forces. that would make the op- There is probably no no- This example also shared and understood by ent in the Westminster
The great ones have posite case. Those politi- bler desire in man than characterised many of those involved in it and system.True Westminster
something more. There is cians who stand above the proper motivation to our politicians long after affected by it. This is not politics see the back of
a certain character that such a label are ignored be a politician. If one were Barbados claimed inde- always captured in small many a political figure in
makes greatness, and not when the mud is being to look back at the political pendence. Few would states. circumstances that have
all have it. Historically, splashed. But it is not history of Barbados, the doubt that there are still Prior to the advent never been the case in this
European countries have every day that a journalist evidence of this noble con- good motives in some of of Barack Obama, region.
built their economies on would pose such a ques- viction is obvious. Maybe, those who serve in modern Americans seemed to have The security that allows
the resources of other tion to a leader. Whatever not until recent times, times. Unfortunately, the a clear understanding of a journalist to freely exer-
nations. Their superior it is that empowers an most of the black men and weakness of character that that country’s political cul- cise the duty of the fourth
ability to despoil others American journalist to women that went into pol- forces some into a mindset ture. Obama’s election estate and draw attention
has made them comfort- confidently ask such a itics were not in pursuit of which tells them that they brought a dynamic that to the lies of the head of
able, even now, but this has question of the President, wealth. This is certainly need to pull down their cracked that bowl. Trump state is an excellent
not necessarily brought is part of the source of true of those who stepped opponents in order to lift broke it. If Joe Biden is demonstration of democ-
them greatness. America’s greatness. up towards the end of the themselves up, destroys, elected, there will be a racy in action. Maybe
A few days ago, a jour- Both the President and colonial period and during not just their targets, but return to the mainstream there needs to be a way to
nalist asked the President the journalist knew that our early years of inde- them as well. It is akin to culture, even if only tem- take the next step and hold
of the United States of that was not so much a pendence. While it would standing in a circle and porarily. The metronomic those who lie accountable
America if he at all regrets question as it was a state- require too much space to shooting.The result is that timing to which they are for their fictitious state-
The Day After: Another
all the lies he has told ment. It was also a decla- list names, one example the entire band of them is accustomed in their sys- ments and deeds.
Americans over the last ration of enough is enough. that fits this discussion is
three and a half years.The That a regular citizen was Wynter Crawford. I chose
The Day After: COVID and the C’bean, human cost to the pandemic
rising to the challenge together BARBADOS has just re- considering these major Maybe some sort of global
ported an overall 15 per changes. The call then for new deal or convention
By Her Excellency Mrs. the emergency health re- pandemic, it has also cent decline in economic diversification of industry would allow governments
Janet Douglas CMG, sponse and protect the brought opportunities. It activity during the first going forward is thus a to declare the reduction of
British High most vulnerable. has highlighted the po- half of 2020. I do expect good one. I’m however re- debt, like what was done
Commissioner to The pandemic has tential of trade sectors that official statistics from minded that given the so- after the second world
Barbados and the heightened awareness such as e-commerce, other CARICOM states cial dislocation unfolding war. I am, however, not
Eastern Caribbean and appreciation of the digital technology, cyber- will follow shortly and in a in front of our very eyes, confident that this would
Caribbean’s unique envi- security, agri-processing, similar manner. Mainstay that any attempt to resus- happen. Sadly, the
THE COVID-19 pan- ronment. As we emerge healthcare, telemedicine, industries such as tourism citate what is left without labourer is not going to be
demic has brought anxi- from the crisis, it will biotechnology, and renew- and construction have empowering the people the winner coming out of
ety, fear and – sadly for be more important than able energy: all areas stalled throughout CARI- through education is this particular crisis.
many – the heartache of ever to ensure that the where the Caribbean is COM, resulting in a peak- going to leave the region Economic history has
bereavement. But it has Caribbean’s recovery is well placed to benefit. It ing in unemployment. as it was before the pan- taught us that this never
also highlighted the clean, inclusive and re- has also showcased the Official sources however demic: a highly indebted happens under any sys-
amazing resilience and silient. Key to that will role of online learning in have not adjusted the un- place with anaemic tem. But maybe this time
adaptability of the be further progress on education. UK suppliers employment rate just yet. prospects for growth. we could somehow correct
Caribbean people in the climate change. The UK, are at the forefront. Many The saving grace, may Employers across the this. My feeling is that if
worldwide effort to re- working in partnership courses are free, and offer there be any, has been an globe will definitely use CARICOM focuses on re-
spond to its impact. The with Caribbean countries people opportunities to oversupply of different this period to recalibrate structuring our economies
UK has been proud to and regional organisa- retrain, including in new types of foods across their operations and are in a resolute, and some-
contribute to that effort, tions, is determined to and growing sectors. CARICOM, ranging from most likely going to em- what rapid manner, that
committing over £700m drive ambitious progress The UK’s Economic poultry in Barbados to brace cheaper labour maybe we stand to be win-
to the international re- when world leaders Partnership Agreement roots and tubers in and/or the dependency of ners. We may be able to
sponse to stop the spread gather in Glasgow in 2021 with CARIFORUM coun- Dominica. I found myself automation. Following stave off the inevitable
of the virus, find a vaccine for the ‘COP26’ Climate tries will be a vital tool for thinking about which this period of global fiscal which faces global labour
and save lives, including a Conference. increasing trade when course of action could re- support, governments will forces.
package specifically for Despite the enormous it comes into force in lieve long-term social have no choice but to
the Caribbean to support challenges brought by the January 2021. decay or even upheaval ramp up tax intake. – Jeremy Stephen
Sunny with cloudy periods with a few
intermittent light to moderate showers
mainly during the afternoon.
High: 12:55 a.m.
and 2:32 p.m.
New York: 26°C Yesterday: 0.1 mm
Miami: 32°C Low: 8:02 a.m. For the month: 75.6 mm Max: 31.3°C
Boston: 20°C and 7:33 p.m. For the year: 455.5 mm Min: 26.4°C
Toronto: 26°C
Montreal: 28°C
London: 19°C 5:46 a.m. 6:19 p.m.
External observation of elections important
10 • Sunday August 16, 2020 The Barbados Advocate
to protect democracy and rights
CARICOM countries country, however, was tenance of the rule of law. do so again for the 2020
have been subject to in- Suriname. Not only was its Similarly, international ob- elections on November 3.
tense scrutiny in the elections process transpar- servers, and their assess- The value that external
period March to August ent and judged to be so by ment of the fairness of the observation missions bring
this year, relating to the local and foreign ob- Suriname elections, con- to the integrity of an elec-
conduct of general elec- servers, but the President tributed to the acceptance tion, the legitimacy of a de-
tions, maintaining and party in power ac- of the results of the May 25 clared winner, and the
democracy, and up- cepted the will of the ma- poll. Mr Bouterse, an army willingness of a population
holding the rule of law. jority of the electorate and man and leader of two to accept a result, is vital
handed over office peace- coups d’état in the past, and should be encour-
Elections were held in fully after an initial, but might otherwise have fan- aged.
four countries – Guyana, brief, call for a recount of cied his chances of seizing In this connection,
St. Kitts-Nevis, Suriname votes in some areas. The office. An identical Jamaica’s Prime Minister
and Trinidad and Tobago. former President, Desiré a vital role in Guyana. Nonetheless, the pres- prospect also hung-over Andrew Holness has an-
No country was more Bouterse, himself sashed Speculation still lingers ence of external observers Guyana for five months. nounced that early general
closely scrutinized than the new President, over the St. Kitts-Nevis would have helped to en- What this all empha- elections will be held on
Guyana by both vigilant Chandrikapersad elections on June 5, where gender trust in the elec- sizes is that external ob- September 3. While
domestic groups and Santokhi. opposition parties claimed tions and eliminate the servation of general elec- Jamaica has quarantine
watchful international ob- There were no interna- that the government used claims that led to the re- tions is important to guard restrictions in place for vis-
servers. That is good for tional observers at the St. border closures to prevent count. against fraud and elec- itors, there is time now for
the elected government Kitts-Nevis and Trinidad nationals from returning The experiences of tions rigging, and for the invitations to be issued to
which gained strong legit- and Tobago elections. In home to vote, and to ex- Guyana, Suriname and maintenance of the rule of CARICOM, the
imacy both at home and both nations, quarantine clude external observers. Trinidad and Tobago – law and democracy. Even if Commonwealth and the
abroad. restrictions, on persons ar- In the case of Trinidad each of them plural soci- the elections machinery in OAS either to send sepa-
Guyana’s elections were riving in the countries, pro- and Tobago, it is doubtful eties in which ethnicity a country is strong, it takes rate teams or to collabo-
held on March 2 and could hibited the presence of ex- that the integrity of the plays a part in political only one or two key offi- rate, to save higher costs,
not be declared until ternal elections observa- elections suffered from the party support – under- cials to act improperly to by sending a combined
August 2, largely because tion missions. It has been absence of external ob- score the vital importance manipulate results in team to observe the elec-
of actions by officials of the argued that incumbent servers. Over the years, of strong, independent favour of political parties tions. Such a mission
Elections Commission who governments took advan- the electoral machinery, as bodies to oversee elections. they support. would give greater credi-
are expected to be investi- tage of the curtailments, an institution, has been In both Suriname and Almost every country in bility and acceptability to
gated in the coming weeks. occasioned by the COVID- strengthened, providing Trinidad and Tobago, it is the world now accepts the the elections for which par-
The role played by the in- 19 pandemic, to constrain confidence in the process. generally accepted that value of external observa- ties have been gearing for
ternational community political party campaign- This confidence was evi- the elections bodies are in- tion of its elections, even weeks.
was a key factor in the dec- ing and to exclude ob- dent when the August 10 stitutionally strong. the United States of External elections ob-
laration of a credible re- servers from organisations elections were hailed by all This was not the case in America. In 2016, both the server missions proved de-
sult of the elections, that such as the the parties as free and fair. Guyana, and it is precisely OAS and the Organization cisive in Guyana and ben-
led to the swearing-in of Commonwealth, the It was only the main oppo- why the presence of inter- for Security and Co-opera- eficial in Suriname – the
Irfaan Ali as country’s new Organisation of American sition party, that called for national observers was so tion in Europe observed peoples of both countries
President. States (OAS) and CARI- a recount of six constituen- vital to a democratic result the U.S. Presidential elec- can attest to their crucial
Discussions to continue on Hike for
The most outstanding COM – all of which played cies. of the elections and main- tions and are preparing to value.
Draft Customs Bill 2019 Wellness next
Sunday
MEMBERS of the busi- very successful as we had August 20 and 26, respec- would be submitted by the
ness community will get inputs from Customs, the tively. We encourage per- Customs and Excise
another opportunity to fa- private sector, The UWI sons to familiarise them- Department (CED) to the
miliarise themselves with and CARICOM. We look selves with the relevant Ministry of Finance for
the draft Customs Bill on forward to continued in- sections of the Bill in consideration in the draft
Thursday, August 20, dur- terest in this the second order to enhance partici- legislation that would go THE Ministry of Health years ago, without the aid
ing a virtual consultation. consultation as we work pation in these sessions before Parliament. and Wellness, in collabo- of hydraulic machinery.
It will begin at 1:30 together in developing the and as a means of expedit- The consultations, ration with the National They will then proceed
p.m., and interested per- Customs Bill.” ing the review process. being hosted by the BCCI, Task Force on Wellness, back to Skeetes Bay
sons willing to participate He added that the con- “This will ensure that in collaboration with the will resume its monthly through Supers and
in the session should sultations were of critical the business community CED, seek to bring about hike for wellness pro- Fortescue.
email the Barbados importance as stakehold- is fully aware of the pro- a better understanding of gramme on Sunday, It is expected to last two
Chamber of Commerce ers were being informed posed changes to the leg- this country’s obligations August 23. and a half hours and is
and Industry (BCCI) at of the various sections in islation and how they will under the World Trade The hike, which will be suitable for children,
bcci@barbadoscham- the Bill, in particular the impact on the ‘Ease of Organization, the Trade the first since the COVID- adults, and even elderly
ber.com, or register online new inclusions. Doing Business’ in Facilitation Agreement 19 shutdown, leaves people. Anyone wishing
at Executive Director of Barbados.” and CARICOM, and how Skeetes Bay, St. Philip, at to participate is advised to
https://zoom.us/webi- the BCCI, Misha Lobban- The BCCI’s Executive they translate into 3 p.m. bring drinking water and
nar/register/WN_iDOxH Clarke, said over 125 per- Director said it was antic- customs requirements for The four-mile trek will a snack, and to wear suit-
D6YSKmD66RyV1FRlg. sons participated in the ipated that the feedback import and export proceed along the rugged able clothing and comfort-
BCC Closure notice
A meeting was held re- first session and proffered from the trade community processes. coastline, passing the Bell able shoes.
cently to sensitise the the view that it signalled Point protrusion and ar- The free event is being
business people about the a successful and positive riving in Consett Bay via held under the theme
new legislation and start to the discussion. the route of the Ancient Barbados Moves! Let’s
Comptroller of Customs, Mrs. Lobban-Clarke Railway Line. Get Moving!
Owen Holder, said there continued: “We look for- THE Barbados between 8.30 a.m. and 1 Hikers will traverse The public is reminded
was robust discussion at ward to more robust dis- Community College has p.m. The College apolo- through the narrow pass that COVID-19 protocols
the session. cussions on this Bill dur- advised that it will be gises for any inconven- known as Consett will be observed, includ-
Mr. Holder stated: “The ing the next two consul- closed on Monday, ience this closure may Cutting, which was carved ing the wearing of masks
first consultation was tations, scheduled for August 17 (tomorrow), cause. out of the rock over 100 and hand sanitising.LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The Barbados Advocate Sunday August 16, 2020 • 11
The price controllers
ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: letters@barbadosadvocate.com
Nelson the
“The Federal Reserve Bank of the
United States, for instance, can wreak
the cost of money reverberates through-
out every facet of a modern economy, dis-
It is why the cycle of economic blow-ups
will continue: “Just as one day some
Astronaut
havoc on the economy yet feel convinced torting virtually every consumption, sav- primitive tribesman scratched his nose, THERE is more evidence to support the
of its effectiveness.” – Nassim Nicholas ings and investment decision.” He con- saw rain falling, and developed an elab- claim that Nelson built a space shuttle,
Taleb cluded, “The Federal Reserve has played orate method of scratching his nose to went into Earth’s orbit and brought back
a major role, generally the major role, in bring on the much-needed rain, we link the cow that jumped over the moon, than
IN 1955, then-Chairman William every financial disaster since its creation economic prosperity to some rate cut by for Nelson being a racist white suprema-
McChesney said, “The Federal Reserve is in 1913.” Read that again. Slowly. the Federal Reserve Board.” Utter and cist mass-murderer. In both claims, his-
in the position of the chaperone who has I often wonder (laughing or I would complete nonsense. One more thought tory would need to be invented.
ordered the punchbowl removed just cry), why we scoff at price-controls in on the cyclical nature of our economic Nelson modifying his ships to improve
when the party was really warming up.” general but don’t bat an eye at the Fed. fortunes and I am done. their performance during a battle, is not
He was speaking in the context of an im- Mr. Taleb (Antifragile) puts this oddity In his review of (deep breath now), evidence that he made a space shuttle.
pending interest rate hike from the Fed. down to domain dependence: “Ask a U.S. Money for Nothing: The Scientists, Nelson keeping livestock on his ships, is
With the recent announcement from cur- citizen if some semi-governmental Fraudsters, and Corrupt Politicians Who not evidence that he retrieved a cow from
rent Chairman Jerome Powell (flirting agency with a great deal of independ- Reinvented Money, Panicked a Nation, orbit. But that is the level of reasoning
with controlling the debt yield curve), ence (and no interference from Congress) and Made the World Rich; James Grant that we are told to accept.
one could be forgiven for accusing the should control the price of cars, morning provided the perfect ending for us, “It’s These claims of some of our historians
Fed of not only keeping, but spiking the newspapers, and Malbec wine, as its do- proverbial that, whereas scientific and political activists, have no support in
punchbowl. The Editorial Board of The main of specialty. He would jump in progress is cumulative, financial progress the credible historical record of docu-
Wall Street Journal detailed the next anger, as it appears to violate every prin- is cyclical. In the first, we build on what ments. This record includes letters and
step on the road to serfdom in, Jerome ciple the country stands for, and call you came before. In the second, we move for- dispatches written by Nelson, the ac-
Powell’s Price-Fix Is In. a Communist post-Soviet mole for even ward only to fall back. Bust chases boom, counts of those who served with him and
As if the quantitative ease and age of suggesting it.” underdoing-it follows overdoing-it.” With fought against him, and books written by
magic money were not enough, now this. Now gently point out that “the Federal a nod to Serenader: It is one step for- the enslaved when they were freed.
The Board writes, “This tool would in- Reserve Bank of the United States is in ward, and two step backward, and trem- The historical record shows that in an
volve the Fed setting interest rates by the business of controlling and managing ble. Hold (not only belly but) your sav- age when racism was popular, Nelson
diktat for the first time in 70 years, and the price of another good, another price, ings, investments, pension plans and stood out as perhaps the lone consistent
Governors are warming to the idea.”They called the lending rate, the interest rate tremble at the price controllers. non-racist, by his behaviour. However, by
continue, “No one should underestimate in the economy (and has proved to be Economics needs a hard reset, or at indoctrinating our students, the fantasy
the risks this poses for the global econ- good at it).” I am not sure about his par- the very least, a reality check. It is getting about Nelson being a racist has become
omy.” Although the Fed has “set” the enthetical comment (unless he meant harder to take it seriously with each cri- popular. Those students have now be-
Then there is
short-term rate for decades, there is room good in the sense of how some persons are sis. come history teachers, journalists, ac-
for the market to send signals about in- “good” at crime). We dub Ron Paul a ADRIAN SOBERS tivists, and members of parliament.
vestor expectations for growth and infla- crank for suggesting that the Fed be abol- After I found no evidence that Nelson
tion. However, “yield-curve control muz- ished or have its role restricted; but as was a racist, but found evidence that he
Twistory
zles investors.” Economic pain is no Taleb points out, “he would also have was not, they used a strange argument.
laughing matter and this would be the been called a crank for suggesting the They claimed that such evidence does
equivalent of carrying a joke too far. creation of an agency to control other not prove that he was not a racist.
As I read Incerto I remember thinking prices.” In short: the Fed. Therefore, he must remain a racist until
that Taleb, at times, went too far in his We are suckers for sophistication which evidence proving that he was not is
critique of the dismal discipline. The makes us vulnerable to being duped by THERE is a clamour for Nelson to be re- found. That is the new standard of proof
more things fall apart, I wonder if he packaging. We scoff at mangoes from the moved from National Heroes Square. used in Barbados.
should have gone even further. Interest- village but pay a premium for a mango- That sounds more emotive than having I have heard this type of impossible
rate price controls were tried in the 1940s infused-drink at an upscale restaurant him removed from Trafalgar Square reasoning only once before. It was when
but “introduced financial and other dis- (who probably sourced mangoes from which is in fact the plot of land on which I was investigating structural damage
tortions that became harder to manage said village). The Fed (and other organi- the statue was erected. The same plot at the Psychiatric Hospital. A patient
the further out of sync the official rate zations) will continue to blow us up with from which a portion was excised to cre- claimed that 1+1=2 does not disprove
and market sentiment drifted.” One com- their “sophisticated” economic models. I ate National Heroes Square. that 1+1 also equals 85. It just means
menter spoke to the broader issue of price leave you with two tidbits from Taleb, My understanding is that the portion that the evidence for 1+1=85 has not
controls: “All price controls and other at- “Economists often invoke a strange argu- on which the statue still stands is still re- been found. Therefore, he could continue
tempts to influence prices by a central au- ment by Milton Friedman that states garded as Trafalgar Square. to claim that 1+1=85.
thority are to some extent like legislation that models do not have to have realistic Why are some people always anxious Our Government swore that wedge is-
to repeal the law of gravity so we can all assumptions to be acceptable – giving to change the historical reality to suit sues like this will never be determined by
fly.” them license to produce severely defec- their own motives? Some history may be 30 politicians, but by the people through
Mr. Joseph Rio continued, “Interest tive mathematical representations of re- unpalatable to Twistorians. Take for in- a referendum. A referendum would give
rates are in some sense no different, but ality.” stance the fact that The Right Excellent their decision to move the over 200-year
in another they can produce much He points out the obvious problem Errol Barrow went to fight a war for the old statue of Nelson, unanimous support.
greater destruction than just about any here, they “do not have realistic assump- colonial power – Britain. This is because they did it in the way
other market price.Whether through out- tions and do not produce reliable results. I await the Twistorians commentary. that they promised all of us.
right controls or open market operations, They are neither realistic nor predictive.” MICHAEL RUDDER GRENVILLE PHILLIPS II
LET GOD QUOTES FOR TODAY WORDS OF
SPEAK TO US Oscar Wilde
WISDOM
Margaret Mead
“The wicked plotteth against (1854 - 1900) (1901 - 1978)
the just, and gnasheth upon Irish dramatist, novelist, & poet US anthropologist CHARACTER THE
him with his teeth. “The only way to get rid of a temp- KEY
“Never doubt that a small
The Lord shall laugh at him: tation is to yield to it.” group of thoughtful, commit-
for he seeth that his day is Consistency
ted citizens can change the
coming.” is the last refuge of the
world. Indeed, it is the only
– Psalm 37, vs 12-13 unimaginative.
thing that ever has.”You can also read
