GNN Online Newspaper October 01 2015

Thursday, October 01, 2015

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“I SPEAK FROM AN -page 2

INFORMED POSITION”

SHARMA & EDGHILL DIFFER ON STATE AUDITS Junior Minister of Finance Jaipaul Sharma

Junior Minister of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma, said that his recent pronouncement on financial audits of some government agencies is based on the fact that he is in constant contact with the auditors who have revealed to him their findings so far. In an invited comment, Sharma explained to the Guyana News Network (GNN) that he receives weekly updates from the auditors and is therefore speaking from an informed position.

However, former Minister within the Finance Ministry, Juan Edghill, says he is alarmed over Sharma's pronouncements that financial audits conducted for some government agencies have shown that there are non-compliance related issues and that “The large entities will reveal some degree of discrepancies.”

Edghill told the Guyana News Network (GNN) that the Minister is pre-empting the outcome of the audits.

He said if the basis of his pronouncements is as a result of a plot by the administration to witch hunt and to go after specific individuals, then it is highly unfortunate.

He said he is certain that in any institution or any agency there will be instances of some level of infractions and noncompliance with methods and operational practices.

With regard to the audits conducted into the smaller agencies, Minister Sharma said while there has been no fraud unearthed, there is a major issue of noncompliance, which he explained can result in persons being dismissed from their jobs.

Edghill did not deny that corruption existed under

FormerJunior Minister of Finance Juan Edghill

the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration; however, he made it clear that it was not condoned by the then government.

“Because like we would have said time and time again we will not deny that corruption exists, but it is not state sanctioned, state sponsored or it is not the modus operandi of the PPP/C, those audits that have come in would have proven that.”

He noted that the continuous corruption accusation against the PPP/C by the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance f o r C h a n g e ( A P N U + A F C ) government has proven to be a “mere illusion.”

“It has been five months almost and this mad search for the corruption has not yet been discovered, there have been a few

incidences of misbehavior on the part of individuals but there is no evidence to support that the former government has a policy to practice corruption,”

Edghill declared.

Most of the audits in the smaller agencies have been completed, with some just awaiting final submissions from the forensic auditors.

Minister Sharma said forensic audits conducted at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the University of Guyana Student Loan Fund and Carifesta X have revealed that there was non-compliance. He said that a number of records cannot be located, which is due to non-compliance.

Sharma also pointed out that an audit of the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU) has also been completed and it

now has to be reviewed by the Ministry. Audits at the Guyana Marriott and NICIL, are due for completion in late November.

Already audits have revealed financial improprieties at the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) where a Deputy CEO has been suspended for the transfer of millions of dollars. The audit at GPL revealed that Aeswar Deonarine transferred some $27.8M to his personal account as retroactive salary increases. The Minister said more persons have been implicated in financial improprieties based on information he received from the auditors thus far.

ND

2 RICE SHIPMENT TO PANAMA ONGOING While some 7000 tons of rice are expected to head to Panama for this second shipment, payment for the first batch is still

outstanding. General Manager of the Guyana Development Board (GRDB), Nizam Hassan, told GNN that just about

two weeks are left before the shipment is wrapped up.

With regards to the issue of the

outstanding payment, Hassan noted that “GRDB is a facilitator and so far no payment for the fi rst shipment has been received on behalf of the millers”. Given this scenario and the related challenges it pose to farmers, Hassan said discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Agriculture, the Millers Association and the GRDB to derive mechanisms to help mitigate the plight of farmers.

Hundreds of rice farmers in Region Two last week staged a protest

seeking interventions from the Agriculture Ministry and the Government of Guyana. They were calling for better paddy prices as well as concessions on fuel and vehicles. Price for rice on the Essequibo Coast ranges from $1500 to $2200 for a bag of Grade A paddy, which GRDB’s General Manager, is far below the cost of Nizam Hassan production. cannot afford to honor Reportedly, “C” their obligations to the prices are being offered for banks and are seeking “A” grade paddy. The farmers noted that with the a s s i s t a n c e f r o m t h e low paddy price they Administration.

AGRI MINISTRY TO PROMOTE FAMILY FARMING Under the theme “Exploiting our Strengths; advancing agriculture and social protection”, the Agriculture Ministry will be aiming to raise the profile of family farming and the impact of small farmers on the Guyana's development during agriculture month 2015.

In his message to mark the beginning of the calendar of activities, Subject Minister Noel Holder gave the government's commitment to promoting food security. “Today I e m p h a s i z e o u r G o v e r n m e n t ' s commitment to sustaining food security. One of our main priorities is to ensure that we continue to enhance food and nutrition security by ensuring that Guyana is on par with the

objective of ensuing that Wo r l d H u n g e r i s eliminated” says Holder.

He added that “Guyana stands ready to eliminate rural poverty. However, if we are to attain this status, communities need to be m o r e s e l f - s u ffi c i e n t .

Farmers today must recognize the challenges facing farming, and confront them so as to significantly maximize on the benefits, and exploit the full potential, of their respective communities”.

During this month, the Agriculture Ministry will be highlighting the changes in the sector with a view to establishing new frontiers on which the sector's development will be based in the coming year and beyond.

Minister Holder said “activities…will focus on

rural poverty, family farmers, and regional and environmentally-friendly production.” He added that it is important to recognize the importance agriculture plays in breaking the cycle of rural poverty both regionally and internationally.

This year's observance will feature several activities which is believed to not only position Guyana to push for more environmentally friendly initiatives; but also address issues within the Rice Industry and improve value added activities in agriculture.

The ministry is urging persons to undertake actions aimed at raising public awareness on the importance to the economy if a green status is to be reached.

PSM $600M PROBE COMES OUT OF COMA

Former Public Service Minister, Dr Jennifer Westford

After weeks of no new developments into the ongoing investigations surrounding the $600M fraud at the Public Service Ministry, yesterday the investigations came out of the weeks' long coma.

On Wednesday the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecution returned to the case jacket containing more than twenty four files back to the Crime Chief's Office. This was confirmed by the Public Relations Officer of the DPP Chambers Elizabeth Rahaman.

The contents of the advice, it any was given was not disclosed but GNN is aware that the file has been under active review from the DPP chambers ever since it was

dispatched there last month by the Criminal Investigation Department.

Questions on if the DPP recommended charges for the Former Minister of P u b l i c S e r v i c e D r.

Jennifer Westford and her Personnel Manager Margret Cummings who are at the center of the were not confirmed.

In May on this year the Government while conducting a forensic audit of that Ministry found that several hundred million was unaccounted for and the money which was issued by the Office of the President over a period of time was requested by Dr. Jennifer Westford.

The monies which were signed off by Permanent Secretary

Omar Sharif at the time was to facilitate several reviews of the services offered by the Public Service and would have covered travel, accommodation, meals and consultancy expenses.

There however are no records to suggest that the reviews were conducted and when investigators questioned several persons from the ministry on if they took part in the exercises stated clearly that they did not nor where they aware that any such exercises were planned or even got off of the ground.

Former Minister Westford and her Personnel Manager are presently the subject of a court matter where it was revealed that they illegally transferred luxury vehicles belonging

to the state, to their families and for personal use.

It is believed that the transfers were done just before the lead up to the May 11 General and Regional Elections. The plot was uncovered by persons whose name appeared on documents but who had no knowledge of the transactions.

A f t e r t h e investigations were launch the former Minister and her personnel assistant returned the vehicles to the state. The lawyers for the former Minister have since moved to the courts to have a stay of execution in the court proceedings.

MISSING NY GUYANESE TEEN FOUND T h e 1 6 - y e a r- o l d Guyanese boy who went missing from his Brooklyn, New York home over one month ago has been found alive.

T h e b o y, Ryan Matthews who migrated to New York over a year ago left his home on

Friday August 28 for a usual afternoon jog but failed to return on that day.

After one month had elapsed family members had started giving up on hopes of finding the teen alive.

The New York Police Department and Matthews relatives had mounted a massive search

for the young man which lasted over a month.

He was reportedly found wearing the same Nike sneakers and clothes that he left home with.

After he was found, he was questioned by police investigators before being handed over to his relieved family members.

Investigators believe that the teen may have ran away from home, however, his relatives are disputing that since according to them, he has no such history.

Relatives described the teen as an 'Introvert.'

CARICOM SUPPORTS GUYANA'S “TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY” CARICOM's Foreign Ministers have welcomed Venezuela's decision to receive a United Nations (UN) technical team which w i l l p r o v i d e recommendations to the UN Secretary-General on the way forward to a full and final solution to its

territorial dispute with Guyana.

The Ministers stated that they fully support Guyana's “territorial integrity”.

CARICOM's Council for Foreign Ministers (COFCOR) met on the sidelines of this week's

70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, and was briefed by Guyana's Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge on the recent developments with the border dispute with Guyana.

CARICOM Secretary General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque

The Ministers are of the view that the decision by President Nicolás Maduro to receive the UN team in the shortest possible time would hasten the efforts aimed at bringing that controversy to an early end.

A statement from COFOR noted that “The ministers underscored the need for the Caribbean region to be maintained as a Zone of Peace . . . The meeting was especially pleased at the decision of the government of Venezuela to receive, within the

shortest possible time, the technical team from the UN Secretariat which is conducting a desk review in order to provide recommendations to the Secretary General on the way forward in the search for a full and final solution to the Guyana/Venezuela territorial controversy regarding the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award,” COFCOR said that decision would set a firm basis for the return of full-fledged diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Venezuela has been laying claim to more

than 2/3 of Guyana's territory since the 19th century. Guyana says that after agreeing to relinquish the Essequibo following a ruling by an international tribunal in 1899, Venezuela backtracked on the decision. Caracas insists the 1899 ruling was unfair and the territory is still in dispute.

The situation surfaced again this year after Exxon Mobil announced it had made a significant oil discovery in Guyana's territorial waters.

GOV'T LOBBIES REPUBLIC BANK TO REDUCE HOUSE LOTS INTEREST RATES

Minister Scott meets with Republic Bank Representatives

Republic Bank Limited was asked by the Ministry of Communities to re-examine its interest rates with a view of reducing it where possible. This request was made by Minister within the Ministry of

Communities, Keith Scott, during a recent meeting with Managing Director of Republic Bank, Richard Sammy and General Manager (Credit), Patricia Plummer.

Minister Scott, who has responsibility for the housing sector, said discussions were hosted on the building of houses for teachers and nurses in each region. He added that the bank representatives

expressed willingness to cooperate with the ministry to make the project a reality when it comes on stream.

According to Scott, the bank is prepared to increase its supporting role with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), and promised to partner with the Ministry to expand the government's vision of creating cohesive communities.

The team raised concerns regarding the issuances of title documents and letters of assurance. Minister Scott explained that the government inherited a backlog of applications for land titles and transport. However, the land registry has promised to speed up the process, so persons can expected to

receive their mortgages faster.

Scott further said that the bank has an internal volunteer section where it will be working along with the Ministry to construct play grounds and other recreational

facilities, to make a difference in the lives of youths and disadvantaged persons.

Minister Scott noted that the Ministry is open to partnering with all banks to push the housing sector.

KENYA SEEKS GUYANA AND CARICOM SUPPORT ON ICC Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta met with President David Granger and other Caricom leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations 70th General Assembly.

After his meeting with the Guyanese leader, Kenyatta said "I sought his support for Kenya's push to amend an International Criminal Court (ICC) rule at the next Assembly of State Parties" to be hosted in November of this year.

At issue is Rule 68 (reference https://www1.umn.edu/humanrts/instree/iccrulesofproc edure.html) which was adopted with assurances that it would not be applied retrospectively to the detriment of Kenyans facing charges at the ICC. However, the legal instrument is being applied in a case facing Deputy President William Ruto and journalist Josua Sang.

The two defendants, Ruto and Sang, are charged with crimes against humanity for their alleged involvement in the post-election events period of 2007–2008, when allegations of election fraud erupted in violence. The ICC prosecutor, alleges that the postelection violence was coordinated and intentionally targeted civilians leading to 1,000 people dead and 650,000 others displaced.

During his meeting with Granger, Kenyatta offered Kenya's support for Guyana in the border dispute with Venezuela.

Kenyatta met with Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda and Prime Minister Ralph G o n s a l v e s o f S t Vi n c e n t a n d t h e Grenadines where he pledged to renew historical ties with the Caribbean, which were not sustained after independence.

Kenya's leader noted that "Kenya has had deep links with Caribbean countries over the course of her history, including the fact that Kenya's first chief justice, Cecil Henry Ethelwood Miller, was a native of Guyana.

The international legal team that defended founding President Jomo Kenyatta when he was jailed during the independence struggle was assembled by Jamaican lawyer Dudley Thompson," The leaders of Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda and St Vincent and the Grenadines all assured President Kenyatta that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

will stand with Kenya in this matter.

Browne also announced the removal of visas for Kenyans wishing to visit Antigua and Barbuda, and more CARICOM countries are expected to do the same.

NEW UMANA YANA TO INCLUDE MEASURES TO AVOID FLOODING AND FIRES months. Materials, which are already being gathered, will be supplied by the villages of St. Cuthbert's Mission and Moraikobai.

The Umana Yana, which was destroyed by fire in 2014, is soon to be rebuilt. A sod turning exercise for the new structure was held on Wednesday, September 30.

"Umana Yana" is a Wai-Wai word meaning "Meeting place of the people". This meeting place was one of Guyana's national monuments constructed in 1972 by approximately sixty members of the Wai Wai community.

It is expected that the new benab, which will be built using traditional methods by Wai Wai tribe members led by master builder and former Toshao, Colin Andrews, will be completed within the next six

Addressing the sod turning ceremony, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples affairs Valerie Garrido – Lowe described the occasion as a fitting end to Heritage celebrations. The Minister opined that the rebuilding of the edifice will serve to, “remind all that the nine indigenous peoples of Guyana are highly skilled and capable”. She expressed her gratitude to the Minster of Public Infrastructure David Patterson for including the reconstruction costs in his Ministry's 2015 budget and to Minister of Education Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine for the architectural design to be utilized.

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson revealed that of the total cost of 66.7 million dollars, 6 million will be used for a fire suppression system to avoid a repeat of the 2014 fire, and 16 million will be spent on a solar power system, as an alternate energy source. The foundation will also be raised some 12 inches to alleviate possible flooding.

In brief remarks, Minister of Tourism Kathy Hughes noted her, “tremendous sense of loss, like most Guyanese”, describing the event as a cause for

celebration “in terms of restoring an important landmark in the capital city”.

Situated on Main Street next to the Pegasus Hotel, the Umana Yana was a conical palm thatched hut (benab) erected for the Non-Aligned Foreign Ministers Conference in Georgetown, Guyana in August 1972 as a V.I.P. Lounge and recreation centre.

The structure was 55 feet (16.78 meters) high and is made from thatched allibanna and manicole palm leaves, and wallaba posts lashed together with mukru, turu and nibbi vines. No nails were used. It was erected by a team of about sixty Wai-Wai Amerindians.

Fashioned like the Wai-Wai benabs or shelters which are found deep in Guyana's interior, it occupied an area of 460 square metres, making it the largest structure of its kind in Guyana.

On 26 August 1974, the late President Forbes Burnham unveiled the African Liberation Monument outside the benab "in memory of all of those who have struggled and continue to struggle for freedom from Human Bondage". The monument consists of five polished Greenheart logs encased in a jasper stand on a granite boulder.

LINDEN WATER ISSUES TO BE RESOLVED Efforts are afoot to address the operational challenges being experienced with the Linden Water Supply and Rehabilitation Programme ( LW S R P ) . T h i s i s according to a release from t h e G u y a n a Wa t e r Incorporated (GWI).

G W I a n d technical experts from the Ministry of Communities recently held a joint session to discuss the current operational challenges being experienced with the Linden Water Supply and Rehabilitation Programme to come up with solutions to the water supply difficulties affecting customers of Linden.

Funded by the

Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the LWSRP encompassed the construction of two (2) water treatment facilities at Amelia's Ward and Wisroc, Linden. The construction of the two facilities and all works related to the LWSRP are being executed by GWI, contractor UEM Inc. And consultant EGIS EAU in association with SRKN. While the construction of the two facilities is beyond 95% completion, including the installation of electrical and mechanical components, the facilities are currently experiencing operational challenges

with regard to the level of service provided to GWI customers of Amelia's Ward and Wisroc.

These challenges have prompted urgent action by Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Keith Scott and the Corporate Management Team of GWI. A Joint Task Force has been assembled consisting of the Programme Team for the LWSRP and technical experts from the Ministry of Communities including Technical Advisor to the Minister on Projects, Charles Ceres.

The Joint Task Force has identified a number of challenges

which require immediate attention including difficulties being experienced with the filtration systems utilized by the facilities. This challenge has a direct effect on the level of production at both facilities and as such has been identified as one of the key obstacles which the task force seeks to resolve.

'It is imperative that the people of Linden are aware that despite these challenges, the Ministry and the Guyana Wa t e r I n c . R e m a i n completely committed to the success of the programme,' stated Minister Scott stated.

Joint consultations will be held frequently with the Programme Manager, c o n t r a c t o r, R e g i o n a l Administration of Linden, technical experts from the Ministry and all concerned parties until these challenges have been resolved'.

Both water treatment facilities under the LWSRP are within the defects liability period.

Hence, any required changes can be implemented by the contractor before the facilities are officially presented to GWI. G W I h a s committed to ensuring that customers of Linden are fully informed of the

challenges and proposed solutions for the LWSRP through the company's Public Relations Department. A radio programme providing details on the operational challenges of the LWSRP is scheduled for broadcast next week on the local Linden radio station, 104.3 Power FM. Minister Scott further emphasized that the Ministry of Communities and GWI have resolved to take whatever steps are necessary to fulfill the promise made to the residents of Amelia's Wa r d a n d Wi s r o c o f improved water service.

WHYAKA CLOSES AMERINDIAN MONTH CELEBRATION The village of 'Whyaka' aka 'Mainstay', on the Essequibo Coast brought the curtain down on Amerindian Heritage Month 2015 celebrations with its village day held under the theme

“Preserving our customs and traditions.”

In tandem with the theme, there were an array of cultural dances, music and dramatic performances and competitions which

highlight the trade and traditions of Guyana's indigenous peoples. Some of the competitions include bird, tree and fish naming; “Wood Bussing,” and canoeing as well a few others.

The highlight of the event was a dramatic piece which comprised a skit, poem and song which sought to reflect the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute and the importance of the Essequibo to Guyana.

This saw persons standing together and shouting “Essequibo is we own.”

Addressing those who had gathered for the start of the day's activities, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valarie GarridoLowe stressed the importance of the preserving the Indigenous culture. She congratulated

the organising team for putting together such a wonderful show and expressed her amazement at the many young children who bravely took part in the performances.

She lauded the participation of women in the development of their communities. “It can only help to build a stronger and healthier environment for those residing there, while at the same time empowering the women and encouraging the younger women to follow their examples,” the Minister said.

Toshao of Mainstay who is also Head o f N a t i o n a l To s h a o ' s

Council (NTC), Joel Fredricks, expressed gratitude to the Minister for attending the ceremony.

Entrepreneurial Indigenous women used the event to market their crafts and products and outstanding students from the village were awarded for excelling academically, while the teachers were also rewarded for their hard work.

Whyaka, or Mainstay as it is popularly known because It is the home of the beautiful 'Lake Mainstay Resort'.

FIGURES SHOW AMNESTY SUCCESSFUL The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has released the figures on the number of firearms and ammunition that have been handed in up onto Wednesday September 30, 2015 in response to the ongoing gun amnesty period.

'A' Division (Georgetown/East Bank Demerara) 1,192 rounds 7.62x39 ammunition.

Three (3) .22 pistols and three (3) magazines along with 78 rounds .22 ammunition.

Three (3) shotguns with twenty three (23) cartridges.

One (1) 9 mm Luger pistol with nine (9) matching rounds.

Four (4) .32 pistols along with one (1) magazine and 347 matching rounds.

Three (3) air rifles One (1) .25 pistol and six (6) rounds.

One (1) .22 revolver One (1) .38 revolver and 20 rounds One (1) .357 revolver

'C' Division (East Coast Demerara) The public Security Ministry announced on Two (2) air rifles Wednesday that the programme will be Three (3) 9mm spent shells extended for an additional 14 days.

'D' Division (West Demerara/East Bank Below are the figures for the various policing Essequibo) divisions.

One (1) air rifle One (1) 9mm magazine.

Three (3) 16 gauge shotgun cartridges.

Three (3) 20 gauge shotgun cartridges.

'E' Division (Linden/Kwakwani) One (1) air rifle One (1) improvised shotgun Two (2) shotguns 'F' Division (Interior Locations) One hundred and fifteen (115) shotguns One (1) AK 47 rifle One (1) .32 pistol One (1) cartridge Eighteen (18) .32 rounds Ten (10) 7.62x39 rounds Summary (Firearms) Shotguns121 Pistols10 Air rifles7 Revolvers3 Rifle (AK 47) 1 Total: 142

MAN THREATENED TO KILL MINISTER BROOMES

Minister within the Social Protection Ministry Simona Broomes

Twenty-eight year old Stephen Ramcharran of Success Railway line East Coast Demerara on Thursday threatened to murder Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection Simona Broomes.

"If meh na get through today i gan murder de minister and nobody aint gon know is me" the irate man stated.

The disgruntled worker who was employed at a store on Regent Street made the comments after he visited the Minister's Brickdam office to meet a labour officer.

He told journalists that he was involved in an industrial accident two years ago and got no satisfaction everytime he visited the labour office.

He further explained that the department before the new government took over told him that there is nothing they can do to assist him.

After the man made the threats the security guard who was on duty at the Minister's office heard him and reported the threat to Broomes driver.

The driver immediately informed the Minister and instructions were passed for the police to be contacted.

When the police arrived at the scene they reportedly questioned the man who related that he did made comments pertaining to killing the Minister but it was not made directly to her.

The police then

cautioned him, left him at the location and then proceeded to go about their business.

Minister Brooms expressed shock that the police who she said left the man on the premises after he made death threats to her.

Broomes told this newspaper that the police ought to have checked the bag which the man was carrying and also carried out a search on his person, none of which were done.

S h e a l s o questioned why the disgruntled man only now decided to run into her Ministry compound and make death threats when the matter was under investigation for two years.

She questioned why he did not engage the two previous Ministers who headed the Ministry under the former administration.

When contacted on Thursday afternoon, Divisional Commander Clifton Hicken said the security guard who heard the comments made by the man gave a different account on the matter to that of the Minister.

The commander subsequently summoned the ranks who responded to the report and questioned them about the events. They were asked to submit statements on t h e m a t t e r.

NEW US AMBASSADOR TO BE ACCREDITED TOMORROW

H.E Perry L. Halloway

The new Ambassador of the United States of America to Guyana (USA) H.E Perry L. Halloway is expected to present his credentials to President David Granger on Friday October 2, at the Ministry of the Presidency.

H.E Halloway will succeed Ambassador Brendt Hardt, whose tenure came to an end over a year ago.

He arrived in Guyana last Thursday.

Ambassador Holloway, a career member of the

Senior Foreign Service, class of MinisterCounselor, most recently served as PoliticalMilitary Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan (2013 – July 2014).

SOCIETY MUST BE INCLUSIVE FOR THE ELDERLY First Lady Sandra Granger took time out today to visit several homes for the elderly around the city today (Thursday, October, 01) as Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing International Day of Older Persons under the theme “Sustainability and Age Inclusiveness in the Urban Environment” Mrs. Granger s a i d “ We a r e r e a l l y looking at how we can assist our seniors….some ladies would be coming to do some manicures and pedicures today” as she highlighted the need for the senior citizens to remain active and engaged.

With advances in medicine helping more people to live longer lives, the number of people over the age of 60 is expected to double by 2050 and will require radical societal change, according to a new report released by the Wo r l d H e a l t h Organization (WHO) for today's observance.

In this regard, countries are being urged

to prepare for the challenges which will inevitably be placed on their social protection and health systems as the responsibility of providing for senior citizens increases. The report stresses that governments must ensure policies that enable older people to continue participating in society and that avoid reinforcing the inequities that often underpin poor health in older age.

Currently, the country with the oldest population in the region is Canada. However, projections based on data from the UN Population Division indicate that in less than a decade, the older population in countries such as Barbados, Cuba, and Martinique will surpass Canada's.

The report finds that there is very little evidence that the added years of life are being experienced in better health than was the case for previous generations at the same age.

The population of the Americas is among the world's oldest. In 2006, there were 50 million older adults in the region, and that number is expected to double by 2025, and again by 2050, when 1 in 4 people in the Americas will be over 60 (globally, the proportion will be 1 in 5).

The new report rejects the stereotype of older people as frail and dependent and says the many contributions that older people make are often overlooked, while the demands that population aging will place on society are f r e q u e n t l y overemphasized or exaggerated.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon in his message to the elderly said “I call on Governments to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable so that no one – of any age – is left behind.”

OUR AMAZING WORLD

RUSSIAN SCIENTIST SAYS HE KNOWS THE SECRET TO ETERNAL LIFE Most of us might pray that the key to living forever will be found in our lifetime and, well, it has according to one Russian scientist.

A n a t o l i Brouchkov reckons he has found the key to eternal life - but selfishly he isn't going to let the rest of us try it out for ourselves. The 58-year-old has injected himself with bacteria - and not any old bacteria either, this stuff is 3.5 BILLION years old.

The ancient

bacteria, Bacillus F, was found in the Sakha Republic, Siberia, and has already been tested on mice, fruit flies, plants and human blood cells.

Already Brouchkov, head of the Geocryology Department at Moscow State, claims to be feeling fi t t e r, h e a l t h i e r a n d stronger He told the Siberian Times: “I started to work longer, I've never had a flu for the last two years.” However, Brouchkov says while he

is enjoying the benefits, it's far too early for mere mortals like us to get a taste of forever. He added: “It still needs the experiments. We have to work out how this bacteria prevents ageing “I think that is the way this science should develop. “What is keeping that mechanism alive?

And how can we use it for our own benefits?”

Thanks a lot - we were starting to plan our 500th birthday party as well.

(BBC)

SCIENTISTS FIND FIRST BIOFLUORESCENT REPTILE While filming small sharks and coral reefs in the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, marine biologists had a stunning encounter with a "glowing" sea turtle.

Scientists captured footage of a hawkbill sea turtle emitting neon green and red light. The discovery was made in late July by David Gruber of the City University of New York and his team. The footage was released for the first time on Monday.

Gruber, an emerging explorer for National Geographic, described the turtle as an alien spaceship when he initially saw it swimming in the water. "It was absolutely gorgeous," Gruber said in an interview with CNN. The turtle swam into the team's lights

while they were filming coral underwater. The turtle's appearance was unexpected and took everyone by surprise, he said.

In just a few years, scientists have started to pay more attention to biofluorescence in marine species. "It's a bit like a mystery novel," Gruber said. "It started with jellyfish and coral, and the fluorescent molecules jellyfish and coral create has lead to monumental breakthroughs in biomedical science."

Fluorescence has helped provide a marker for scientists to see the inner workings of cells and that has partially lead to an explosion in research in the biofluorescence field, Gruber explained. Finding

a reptile that exhibits biofluorescence opens up a new set of questions: Why is a turtle emitting light? What is the chemical composition?

U n l i k e bioluminescence, which is when an organism produces its own light through chemical reactions, such as what fi r e fl i e s d o , biofluorescence is when an animal absorbs light, transforms it and radiates it, sometimes in different colors. Scientists have discovered the presence of biofluorescence in corals; arthropods such as crabs and insects; and more than 200 species of sharks and fishes.

In certain cases, scientists have an idea as to how organisms use biofluorescence. In coral

living in sun-drenched parts of the ocean, for example, biofluorescence functions as a form of sunscreen. It also can work as a lure as well. Early studies suggest some fish use biofluorescence as a way to signal to one another. "For fish and sharks and now turtles, it's much more mysterious," Gruber said.

Typically biofluorescence is used to

attract prey and is used as a form of defense. The neon lights may help with camouflaging the turtle.

But Gruber explained that it may be too early to understand why the turtle radiates these lights. "The ocean is the perfect place to evolve these kinds of fluorescent molecules because it is almost completely blue," he said.

"The ocean absorbs almost every other color

except for blue -- so these animals have been creating ways to take in that blue light and transform into other colors," he said.

Scientists are just starting to understand the process. "This is just another example showing how many mysteries the ocean has in store for us," he said. (CNN)

Regional

Regional

PNM“TIME TO FIRES BACK MOVE ON”

L E AV I N G n o t h i n g t o chance, six successful People's National Movement (PNM) Members of Parliament are fighting back as they seek to have the United National Congress' (UNC) election petitions against them dismissed by the appellate court.

T h e P N M parliamentarians who each won their respective seats in six disputed marginal constituencies of San F e r n a n d o We s t , L a H o r q u e t t a / Ta l p a r o , To c o / S a n g r e G r a n d e , Tunapuna, St Joseph and Moruga/Tableland, are now appealing the petitions filed against them by the United National Congress.

The election petitions, presented on September 22 by the UNC, seek to have the results in the six constituencies declared null and void by the courts.

The Opposition party, on September 18, received the permission of High Court judge, Justice Mira DeanArmorer, to file the petitions on an argument that the Elections and Boundaries Commission had no power to extend September 7 General Election voting by one hour

due to rainy weather.

However, in the notices of appeal filed by attorneys representing the six MP s, the six contend that the judge was wrong to grant leave. Her “presumed finding that the UNC candidates for the six marginals had presented sufficient evidence to justify the grant of leave” is being challenged by the PNM. The six MPs — Attorney General Faris AlRawi (San Fernando West); Maxie Cuffie (La Horquetta/Talparo); Glenda Jennings-Smith (Toco/Sangre Grande); Esmond Forde (Tunapuna); Terrence Deyalsingh (St Joseph) and Dr Lovell Francis (Moruga/Tableland) say the judge erred in law when she granted leave to the Opposition party, “in the absence of any evidence that anyone joined the lines to vote after 6 pm and was allowed to vote, and/or the number of such persons, such as to suggest that the result of the election might have been materially affected by the alleged unlawful extension of

polling hours to 7 pm.” The appellate court is also being asked to set aside the leave granted by Justice DeanArmorer and have the petitions dismissed.

In the notices of appeal, the winning parliamentarians also mentioned that they were not properly served with all the documents relative to the petitions. Their service of the notice of appeals were done by electronic means (via email) in accordance with the Civil Proceedings Rules 1998 which provides for s a m e .

T h e U N C ' s attorneys were given 24 hours to respond, failing which there is the assumption that service of the documents were accepted. The issue of service of the election petitions turned ugly last week when Attorney General Faris Al- Rawi, the sitting Member of Parliament for the San Fernando West seat, was served with his election petition at the funeral service for former minister Errol Mahabir. The service was effected by a bailiff who later claimed he was verbally abused by Al-Rawi.

Attorney for the U N C Wa y n e S t u r g e defended the actions of the bailiff. Relative to the petitions, the ruling PNM have repeatedly maintained that the party was not overly perturbed by the court granting leave to the UNC to contest the results of the six constituencies. The party's chairman, Minister Franklin Khan has said that the Opposition was free to pursue whatever course of action it wants. (Trinidad Newsday)

- CAMERON TELLS JAMAICANS

Without directly addressing loud calls from several quarters, locally and within the Caribbean, for reparation from Britain, David Cameron, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, yesterday urged the region to move past the legacy of s l a v e r y, w h i c h h e described as "abhorrent" in all forms. In an address to a joint sitting of the Houses of Parliament in Jamaica, Cameron declared that slavery has no place in any civilised society, adding that Britain was proud to have eventually led the way in its abolition. " T h a t t h e Caribbean has emerged from the long, dark shadow it cast is testament to the resilience and spirit of its people. I acknowledge that these wounds run very deep indeed. But I do hope that, as friends who have gone through so much together since those darkest of times, we can move on from this painful legacy and continue to build for the future," Cameron said.

Prime Minister Portia

Simpson Miller, who welcomed the UK leader before he made his presentation to lawmakers, said she discussed the "difficult issue of reparation" with Cameron, which is being considered by the Caribbean Community.

She said Jamaica was committed to a spirit of mutual respect, openness and understanding as it engaged the UK on the question of reparation.

Armed with a plethora of grants, Cameron sought to convince Jamaica and, by extension, the region that the UK was serious about strengthening bonds between his country and the Caribbean. In an a d d r e s s y e s t e r d a y, Cameron said: "I've come here not just with words of friendship but with a real down-payment on Britain's commitment to you."

He reiterated that the UK was providing £360 million in new financial commitments, including a £300 million infrastructure fund across

the Caribbean. "Let me be clear. This £300m is not soft loans; not tied aid. It is cash grants." The UK prime minister also announced a £30-million grant for new programmes to help attract investment and improve governance and £30 million to make hospitals more resilient to natural disasters. "We need to make sure that if a hurricane strikes, crucial health centres can remain operational to treat the wounded," he said.

In his comments, Opposition Leader Andrew Holness said he welcomed the genuine interest of the UK prime minister in advancing the relationship between Jamaica House and 10 Downing Street on trade, investment and security.

"We appreciate the view expressed that our relationship should be forward looking, nevertheless, we also believe that there must be genuine commitment to finding ways to repair what is universally believed to be the wrongs of the past," Holness said.

(Jamaica Gleaner)

INTERNATIONAL

BUSH MAKES FUND-RAISING APPEAL FOR HIS BROTHER JEB George W. Bush has been raising money in private for Jeb Bush's White House campaign for months, but on Tuesday the former president took a small step into a more public role for his younger brother: He sent out a fund-raising email.

“I know what it takes to sit in the Oval Office and deal with the issues that come across the president's desk,” wrote the 43rd president, in what Jeb Bush's aides said was his second fund-raising solicitation of the campaign. “And I know

in the nominating contest: the former president and his wife, Laura Bush, are also draws among Republican donors and have been headlining events around the country to raise money for the campaign.

The former president is hosting a fund-raising lunch in northwest Arkansas on Friday that is expected to attract many Walmart executives, and he recently added a fundraising event next month in Denver to his schedule.

(New York Times)

that Jeb has what it takes to lead our nation.”

As part of a lastminute push to bank money ahead of We d n e s d a y n i g h t ' s quarterly fund-raising deadline, the former president stayed on safe rhetorical terrain, heaping praise on the former Florida governor as “compassionate” and filled with “resolve.”

The message was a reminder that the former president is still popular among grassroots Republicans and can be an asset for his brother

'OBAMA HANDSHAKE' TRIGGERS ANGER IN IRAN PARLIAMENT

The Iranian foreign minister's reported handshake with US President Barack Obama

triggered chants of "Death to America" in Tehran's parliament Wednesday and a warning against

"another kind of spying".

The foreign ministry has confirmed a "completely accidental" encounter

between Obama and Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Monday, without denying there was a handshake as reported by Iran's semi-official ISNA news agency.

But hardline lawmakers went on the offensive against Zarif.

"With whose permission have they met Obama?" deputy Bahram Biranvand asked angrily. "Last time they talked to Obama on the phone and this time, with whose permission" did Iran's minister shake hands with the US leader?

Biranvand was referring to President Hassan

Rouhani's historic telephone call with his American counterpart in 2013. Zarif also came under indirect attack from Iran's ultraconservative judiciary spokesman, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejeie, Fars news agency reported.

Without naming Zarif, Ejeie alluded to the Obama handshake and said: "Some spies are paid but there is another kind of spying that we have to watch out for. He prepares the ground for the enemy.

"These people would say: 'Why not allow a friendly handshake with the enemy? What's wrong with shaking hands with Obama? What's wrong

with sitting with them, chatting away and drinking with them?'"

Despite the July 14 nuclear accord between Tehran and world powers led by the United States, Iran's supreme l e a d e r Ay a t o l l a h A l i Khamenei has said Wa s h i n g t o n r e m a i n s Tehran's "number one enemy". The ObamaZarif handshake would be the first known between a US president and a top Iranian official since the two countries severed diplomatic ties in the wake of Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution.

(Yahoo News/AFP)

INTERNATIONAL

WHO IS PRESENT IN AREAS HIT BY RUSSIAN FORCES IN SYRIA? Russian warplanes carried out air strikes inside Syria for the first time on Wednesday, hitting areas in several provinces in raids that state television said targeted "terrorists".

A security source and Syrian state media, which refer to all rebel groups as "terrorists", both reported Russian strikes in central Homs province, where control is largely divided between regime forces and the Islamic State jihadist group. The areas hit by the Russian strikes, however, including Talbisseh and R a s t a n , a r e l a r g e l y Nusra Front.

The provincial controlled by Al-Qaeda capital of Homs is under affiliate and IS rival Al-

regime control, with the exception of a single district, and the

government also holds the famed ancient city of former rebel bastion of Palmyra, along with the Qusayr. IS controls the Christian town of Al-

Qaryatain, and several gas fields.

A security source and state media also reported Russian strikes in Hama province, also central Syria, that is mostly controlled by the regime. IS has a presence in the province, which has also been regularly targeted in past months by the Army of Conquest rebel coalition that includes Al-Nusra. The reported targets in Hama include areas controlled mostly by Islamist and moderate rebels, as well as

by Al-Nusra and ISaffiliated groups. (BBC)

AFGHAN ASSAULT TO RETAKE KUNDUZ FROM TALIBAN COLLAPSES

A promised counterattack

by Afghan forces aimed at retaking the strategic city of Kunduz from Taliban militants collapsed early Wednesday as hundreds of soldiers and civilians

reportedly fled to the city's airport, where they were surrounded by insurgent forces.

The New York Times reported that the assault on Kunduz, a city

of 300,000 in northern Afghanistan, may have been just the first part of a broader offensive by the Ta l i b a n . T h e p a p e r reported that several military checkpoints and

government buildings in Takhar Province, east of Kunduz, had also come under attack by militants.

The Associated Press reported that Taliban fighters began fanning out across Kunduz itself Tuesday, closing roads, throwing up checkpoints and torching government buildings as fearful residents huddled indoors.

Afghan forces attempting to retake the city were stalled by roadblocks and ambushes, unable to move closer than about a mile toward their target.

Meanwhile, U.S. warplanes carried out two airstrikes on Taliban positions, and a NATO officer told the AP that more airstrikes were

unlikely as "all the Taliban are inside the city and so are all the people." He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief media on the issue.

His words suggested the fight to retake the city would involve painstaking streetby-street fighting as government forces try to avoid civilian casualties in retaking control. Reuters reported that Afghan forces had expressed a reluctance to use attack helicopters and heavy artillery in urban areas.

The insurgents u s e d m o s q u e loudspeakers to try to reassure people they were safe. But residents,

recalling the group's brutality during its 19962001 rule of Afghanistan, were fearful of what was to come. The fall of Kunduz, the first urban area taken by the Taliban since the U.S.-led invasion ousted their regime 14 years ago, is a major setback to President Ashraf Ghani, who has staked his presidency on bringing peace to Afghanistan and seeking to draw the Taliban to peace talks.

In a televised address, he vowed to take Kunduz back from the insurgents, urging the nation to trust Afghan troops to do the job.

(CNN)

SP

She's dominated women's tennis, won three out of four of this year's grand slams and is the undisputed World No.1 -but Serena Williams won't be winning the year-end W TA fi n a l s . T h a t ' s because she announced that she is withdrawing from next week's China Open and the forthcoming event in Singapore in a bid to allow her body to

recover from a grueling season.

The 34-year-old hasn't played since suffering a shock defeat to R o b e r t a Vi n c i a t t h e semifinal stage of the U.S. Open last month. "It's no secret I've played injured most of the year -- whether it was my elbow, my knee, or, in the final moments after a certain match in Flushing, my heart,"

Williams told the China Open website.

"I'm a fierce competitor. And I want to compete as well as I can, for as long as I can. So I am taking a proactive step and withdrawing from tournaments in Beijing and Singapore to properly address my health and take the time to heal. "This is a very difficult decision but one ultimately made

RTS SERENA OUT OF CHINA OPEN AND WTA FINALS because of the love of the game.

"I plan to return to practicing and participating in exhibition matches later this year.

And when I do, l will focus and focus and focus so I can continue my journey in this beautiful game."

Williams enjoyed a stellar 2015 -- winning the Australian Open, French

Open and Wimbledon to take her grand slam tally to 21.

She lost just three matches out of 56 with the latest of those against Italy's Vinci. The U.S. star is just behind Steffi Graf, who holds the record for the most grand slams in the Open era. Williams, who won the end of season finals in Singapore last

year, will now concentrate on recuperating ahead of the new season.

It means that there will be another spot up for grabs with the competition usually including the top eight female players on the planet. (CNN)

tour as soon as possible."

Cricket Australia was approached by ASIO and DFAT last Friday, three days ahead of the squad's scheduled departure for the two-Test tour, and were advised that potential security risks to Australian interests in Bangladesh had been identified. The departure of the players was postponed while Cricket Australia's security team flew to Dhaka to assess the situation.

CA's head of security Sean Carroll met with the Bangladesh government, the BCB, the Australian High Commission and DFAT,

and flew home on Tuesday to report back to the players and the CA board.

The prospects of the tour going ahead were not helped by the shooting death of an Italian national in Dhaka's diplomatic zone on Monday, for which ISIS reportedly claimed responsibility.

"The decision by Cricket Australia to postpone the tour is the correct one in these difficult circumstances, particularly from a player safety and welfare point of view," Alistair Nicholson, the Australian Cricketers' Association chief executive said. "The

process for arriving at this decision was rigorous and we were in constant contact with CA, their security team, and the Australian players.

"It was by no means a call made lightly; it was made based on the recommendations of experts from a variety of organisations, including DFAT, CA's security team, and independent security assessors. Ultimately it was determined that the risk to the safety of players and support staff was too great for the tour to go ahead. (Espncricinfo)

AUSTRALIA DUMPS BANGLADESH TOUR Cricket Australia has officially postponed its upcoming Test tour of Bangladesh due to security concerns. James Sutherland, the Cricket Australia chief executive officer, announced the decision late on Thursday evening and said that CA had been left with no alternative after warnings from the Australian government of an increasing security risk for the Australian team in Bangladesh. "This has b e e n a v e r y d i ffi c u l t decision," Sutherland said.

"Following the most recent information from Australian government

agencies and our own security advisors, we have decided that, regrettably, we have no alternative but to postpone the tour.

"Over the last few days we have sought to obtain as much information as possible about the risks for Australians travelling to B a n g l a d e s h . We h a d hoped that the security concerns would fade, but unfortunately the advice we have received from government, our own security experts and independent security advisors has clearly indicated that there are now high risks to our

people should they make the trip. " We h a v e worked tirelessly to try to find a way for the tour to proceed, but in the end it was simply not possible.

Given the situation, we have now advised the BCB and the International Cricket Council of our decision. We understand that this decision will be very disappointing for the cricket community in Bangladesh. " H o w e v e r, f r o m a n Australian perspective, the safety of our players and officials is our highest priority. We will work with the BCB to reschedule the

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IGG SECOND LEG CANCELLED; GOVERNMENTS COMMITTED TO 2016 At an Inter Guyana Games meeting convened in Suriname, on August 1314 all three countries agreed that the first leg was cancelled because of miscommunication.

Mr. Jean – Claude Mariema, President of the Comite Regional Olympique at Sportif de Cayanne, advised that French Guiana was facing some serious challenges with

various Sports Associations as it relates to the organizing of the second leg which also included budgetary changes.French Guiana promised to inform the other two countries on a final position with respect t o i t s o rg a n i z i n g t h e second leg for October 2731, by August 24.

Both Suriname and Guyana agreed to participate if French

Guiana was able to host.in August 31, French Guiana indicated that after discussions with the National Sports Associations, only Badminton and Chess consented.

It also indicated that there will be General Elections in French Guiana in December; hence it is not possible to host the second leg of the Inter Guiana Games in French Guiana. None the less, French Guiana is committed to organize the 2016 Inter Guiana Games in Cayanne. French Guiana also proposed that

Guyana organizes the second leg with a budget supported by French Guiana and Guyana for Chess and Badminton only.

G u y a n a immediately informed both French Guiana and S u r i n a m e t h a t unfortunately, it will not be able to host, as our venues are presently under renovation. However, Guyana indicated that if Suriname was willing to host the second leg on its own or with the support from French Guiana, Guyana will participate.

On September

16, Suriname stated that because of some challenges, it will not be possible to take on the r e s p o n s i b i l i t y. A s a consequence, the second leg of the Inter Guyana Games 2015 will not be staged.

French Guiana, Suriname and Guyana have given their commitment to ensure the continuation of the Inter Guiana Games as the Games have much interest amongst the youths of the three countries.

The three countries have also unanimously accepted

that it is necessary that an early meeting, after election in French Guiana, be organized to commence discussions and preparations for the Inter Guiana Games 2016.

NATIONAL HOCKEY TEAM OFF TO PERU Guyana's national men's hockey team departed on Wednesday morning for the Pan American Challenge in Chiclayo, Peru. The team will take two days to reach their final destination, having to make connections in Trinidad, Curacao and Bogota, Colombia before arriving in Lima, Peru early Thursday morning.

Due to financial constraints the team will then have to take a 14 hour bus ride to Chicklayo, where the tournament will

be staged. The players then have one day to recuperate before taking on Puerto Rico on Saturday October 2, at 12:00pm (Guyanese time). They will be off on Sunday before coming up against Panama on Monday October 5, at 10:00am (Guyanese Time).

They will then oppose the tournament's top ranked team, Brazil, on Tuesday October 6, at 1:00pm Guyanese time. If Guyana manages to finish in the top two of their

group, they will advance to the semifinals on Friday October 9, with the final scheduled for Sunday October 11.

This is the first time that the Guyanese men will be competing in an international outdoor competition in eight years.

Guyana last competed at the Caribbean Cup and ALBA Games in 2007 where they won Bronze and Silver respectively.

Teams ranked outside of the top six in the Pan American region are

required to play the Pan American Challenge to qualify for the Pan American Cup, scheduled for the USA in 2017.

Because of Guyana's inactivity on the international scene over the past eight years it no longer holds a world or Pan American ranking.

As a consequence the team had to commit to the monumental financial undertaking of raising the 8 million dollar tour budget, just to earn the chance of regaining an international ranking. The team continue it's fundraising drive when it returns, to pay off its debts.

Although the team includes a few experienced players such as Robert France, long time captain Devin Munroe and England based Marvin Dannett, due to the eight year gap, most of the squad have

never played and international outdoor match before.

Young players Jamarj Assanah, Aroydy Branford, Mark Sargeant, Kareem McKenzie, Andrew Stewart and goalkeeper Medroy Scotland are expected to lead the charge of the next g e n e r a t i o n o f exceptionally talented players making their international outdoor debuts.

Complete 18 Man Team Orland Semple, Stuart Gonsalves, Andrew Xavier, Mark Sargeant, Kareem McKenzie, Daniel Hooper, Medroy Scotland (GK), Shane Samuels, Robert France, Devin Munroe (C), Randy Hope, Rayon Branford, Jamarj Assanah, Aroydy Branford, Andrew Stewart, Hilton Chester, Ato Greene and Marvin Dannett

Manager/Coach - Robert Fernandes T h e t e a m management and players would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the following entities who contributed towards making the tour possible.

The team's sponsors are : National Sports Commission, DeSinco Trading, GUYOIL, Woodpecker Products, Guyana Manioc Development, Continental Group of Companies John Fernandes Ltd, Farm Supplies, General Equipment, Digicel, NAMILCO, EC Vieira Investments, R. Bassoo and Sons Construction Company, Kares Engineering Inc., Toucan Industries, RED Entertainment, Bounty Farm Ltd., DD Mining , As well as all the private individuals who made a contribution in some way or the other

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WEIRD AND WONDERFUL GOAL RECORDS Cristiano Ronaldo equalled Real Madrid's alltime scoring record with h i s l ate st C h a m p i o n s League goals, while Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski is enjoying a purple patch that most strikers only dream of.

Ronaldo's double against Malmo on Wednesday were goals 500 and 501 of his career, and he joins Raul as the club's joint-

leading scorer on 323 for Real - having played 419 games fewer.

It came a day after Poland striker Lewandowski scored a hat‐trick against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League, making it 10 in three games for him. He scored twice in Saturday's 3-0 win at Mainz and five times in eight minutes 59 seconds as a second-half

substitute in the 5-1 victory over Wolfsburg last week. That quintet included the fastest hattrick in Bundesliga history - three minutes 22 seconds.

The 27-year-old has also become the fastest foreign player to 100 goals in the Bundesliga. But while the pair are setting new standards for forwards, they need to go some way to match the

achievements of some of these goal machines.

1,000 club Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known as Pele, won three World Cups with Brazil and is widely considered the best player of all time. He also holds the record for the most career goals scored with 1,279 in 1,363 games, from 7 September

1956 to 1 October 1977.

Pele's most prolific year was 1959, when he scored 126 goals.

A special mention goes to fellow Brazilian Romario, who in 2007 in a Brazilian league match, celebrated what he said was his 1,000th goal, according to his "personal count".

Romario's total included 77 goals he

scored at youth level and a further 21 in friendly and testimonial matches. Then there is Brazilian Arthur Friedenreich, who according to the Guinness Book of World Records scored an undocumented 1,329 goals in 26 years between 1909 and 1935, a feat not recognised by Fifa. (BBC)

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AUSTRALIA DUMPS BANGLADESH -see page 14

James Sutherland