Mallorca 5 – 11 October 2023 Issue 1996

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STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION

Issue No. 1996 5 - 11 October 2023

Soller celebrations

SUNDAY, October 1, was the International Day of the Elderly. Along with Palma, the occasion was also celebrated in Soller. Llorenc Galmes, the president of the Council, alongside Hermosinda Mariño, the island’s director of Sociocultural Promotion, and Soller’s mayor, Miquel Nadal, celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Association of the Third Age in the municipality.

During the event, Galmes presented a commemorative plaque to the association’s president, Joan Noguera, expressing “gratitude and recognition for the 40 years of the local grouping.” Attendees were treated to a performance by the Tercera Edat (Third Age) choir.

Galmes emphasised the Council’s dedication on this significant day, stating, “Today, on the International Day of the Elderly, we reiterate our commitment to the elderly to improve their quality of life, providing them with the resources and attention necessary for their daily well­being.”

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Hotel award MOUNTAIN MENACE

MALLORCA’S Hotel El Vicenc de la Mar in Cala Sant Vicenc has clinched the title of Europe’s best new boutique hotel at the World Travel Awards, often dubbed the ‘Oscars of Tourism’. Celebrating its 30th edition, these awards recognise global excellence in tourism. The five­star hotel, part of the esteemed Mallorca Ç Collection group, is tailored for adults over 12 and boasts 30 double rooms, four suites, and a penthouse suite. The bike­friendly hotel offers luxury services, including a rooftop with breathtaking views, wellness facilities, and two gourmet restaurants led by Michelin­starred chef, Santi Taura. This accolade isn’t Mallorca’s only win; ‘Can Bordoy Grand House & Garden’ has been crowned Europe’s best ‘all suites’ hotel for the fourth year running.

THE Council of Mallorca and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment are joining forces to tackle the escalating goat population in Mallorca. This collaboration aims to implement a series of measures to control the island’s caprine numbers more effectively.

A key decision has been to apply various methodologies to estimate the overall goat population, as well as their zonal and seasonal densities. This updated census will enable authorities to focus control efforts where they’re most needed.

Sebastia Perello, the island’s director of Hunting,

emphasised, “the main control of goats is done through hunting and without the group of hunters the proliferation of this species would be even greater.”

In decision ­ making, the voices of those familiar with the land will be prioritised. This includes landowners, hunters, neighbourhood associations, town councils, hunting tourism companies, wildlife control firms, and research teams affiliated with the Hunting Service and the Species Protection Service.

Joint management actions and promotional activities with these groups are also under consideration.

The growing number of

goats descending from the mountains is a multifaceted issue. Historically, the Sierra de Tramuntana and Llevant regions relied on goats and sheep as primary economic resources. However, with fewer ranchers managing the forests, food and water scarcity forces these animals to seek sustenance in urban areas. This shift has seen goats moving towards urbanisations in the Serra de Tramuntana, where they find artificial water sources and lush gardens.

Perello added, “The Mallorcan wild goat is the only big game species in Mallorca, with an undoubted hunting value.”

Credit: Conselldemallorca.cat

Credit: Conselldemallorca.cat

BIG GAME: Tackling Mallorca’s goat problem.

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Third Age.

THE president of Mallorca’s Council, Llorenc Galmes, met with key players in the island’s tourism sector on Friday, September 29. The objective? To gather insights and suggestions for the forthcoming tourism regulations that the Balearic Islands’ Government intends to introduce in the upcoming months.

Galmes, joined by Mallorca’s Minister of Tourism, Jose Marcial Rodríguez Díaz, engaged in discussions with the Hotel Chains Association (ACH), the Hotel Federation of Mallorca (FEHM), the Fe­

Tourism talks

lipe Moreno School of Tourism, and the Balearic Federation of Tourist Rentals. During these dialogues, both Galmes and Rodríguez were informed of the sector’s needs and apprehensions about the future rules.

Galmes pledged to incorporate their feedback, along with the council’s own recommendations, and relay them to the government responsible for crafting the

new law.

This collaborative approach aims to create a tourism law that not only benefits the entire tourism value chain, but also fosters harmonious coexistence under the umbrella of sustainable tourist activity. Reflecting on the day, Galmes voiced his commitment to continually enhance the sector, recognising tourism as Mallorca’s primary economic driver.

Supermarket contribution

MERCADONA has generously donated 20 tons of essential items to the Mallorca Food Bank Foundation. This significant contribution includes staples like pasta, rice, baby food, and nappies, showcasing Mercadona’s unwavering support for Mallorca’s vulnerable communities.

This donation is a continuation of their annual collaboration, ensuring that those in need receive these essential products. Raimundo de Montis, the president of the Mallorca Food Bank Foundation, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We appreciate the donation that Mercadona makes to us every year and that encourages us

to continue our work of helping those most in need and fighting hunger and waste.”

Earlier this year, the foundation received 16 tons of goods, thanks to the generosity of Mercadona’s customers during the ‘Operation Kilo’ initiative. Ester Coll, Mercadona’s Director of External Relations in Mallorca, praised the Food Bank’s efforts and emphasised the importance of customer participation, saying, “Without them, it would not be possible.”

In 2023 alone, Mercadona has donated a staggering 1,200 tons of food to over 30 charities across the Balearic Islands.

Mallorca Rocks

PALMA was alive with the sound of music on Saturday, September 30, as the Pop Rock 2023 Contest came to a thrilling finale at Ses Voltes. Santa Maria del Cami’s very own ‘Negre’ clinched the top spot. The talented trio consists of Fabi Bover on vocals and guitar, Pasqual Marí on drums, and Josep Campins on bass.

Hot on their heels, ‘Guille Wheel and The Waves’ secured second place. The band features Guillermo Borras, Berto Meana, Juan Andreu, Toni Sanchez, Tomi Solbas, and Toni Sbert. ‘Ultraviolet’ rounded off the top three, showcasing Darcy Violet,

RVNTH, Peter, and German.

The jury, including Carme Castells, Pau Forner, Pazzis Veiret, Maria Hein, and Juanjo Monserrat, revealed their decision after a spectacular concert. Attendees were treated to a performance by last year’s winners, ‘Bilo’, during the deliberation.

Monica Borras, a renowned radio journalist, hosted the event, which also spotlighted other finalists like ‘The Ripples’, Maria Antonia, and Lidia Roman.

As a treat, the top three bands will grace the stage at the Revetla de Sant Sebastia in January.

WINNING BAND: Negre clinched the top spot.

Credit: Palma.cat

BANK HOLIDAY

AS Thursday October 12 is National Day in Spain, we will not be distributing any of the seven Euro Weekly News editions until the following day, Friday October 13. There will still be the same mix of interesting content, but it will be one day later.

NIBS EXTRA

Reading festival

ON September 30, the Council of Mallorca pledged its support for the fifth edition of Literanit, a festival promoting reading. This year’s theme is ‘Literature and cinema. Shared territories’, with events in Binissalem, Santa Maria, sa Pobla and Campo

In the spotlight

PRESIDENT Llorenç Galmes of the Council of Mallorca attended the seventh Night of Tourism 2023 in Ibiza. Joined by Mallorca’s Tourism Minister Rodriguez Diaz and FMT’s director, the gala celebrated tourism achievements in the Balearic Islands, presenting 13 awards across seven categories.

Primark hiring

PALMAACTIVA will be hosting a recruitment day for Primark on Thursday, October 5. The company is looking to fill 45 positions at the Palma store. The PalmaActiva initiative bridges job seekers with company HR managers.

Alcudia Fair

THE 35th Alcudia Fair attracted 20,000 visitors last weekend. Over 160 stalls, including 85 craft ones, were spread across the town. Mayor Fina Linares, Councillor Azahara Machado, and other dignitaries attended the event.

Hiker rescued

A FRENCH hiker, who became lost close to the town of Escorca, was rescued by Mallorca firefighters on Sunday, October 1. Thankfully unharmed, he was airlifted by the Guardia Civil’s helicopter and returned to the area near his vehicle.

Keeping up appearances

THE ‘Palma a Punt’ cleaning initiative covering neighbourhoods like Pere Garau and Son Gotleu, has achieved remarkable results. Over 25 tonnes of waste were collected, 143 kilometres of pavement were jet washed, and over 200 instances of graffiti were removed. This effort, which took place in the latter half of September, saw participation from around 100 municipal operatives from various departments including EMAYA, Infrastructures, and

Health and Safety.

EMAYA’s contribution was notable with 40

workers and over 20 vehicles involved in tasks such as cleaning 1,050 litter

Elderly honoured

bins and installing 30 new ones. The Health Department tackled pest control, addressing issues like the tiger mosquito in 120 reservoirs.

The infrastructure team repaired roads and improved pedestrian walkways, while the Safety department monitored personal mobility vehicle regulations, resulting in 72 reports of irregularities. ‘Palma a Punt’ aims to conduct these comprehensive clean­ups at least twice a year in each neighbourhood.

Traffic solutions Off-duty hero

THE Council of Mallorca, led by President Llorenc Galmes, and Minister of Territory, Mobility and Infrastructure, Fernando Rubio, convened with municipal representatives from Palma, Llucmajor, Calvia, and Marratxi, and government officials on Monday, October 2.

The purpose of the meeting was to address the persistent traffic congestion issues plaguing the capital. Galmes and Rubio unveiled plans that could potentially reduce vehicle queues by 25 to 30 per

cent. “The collaboration between the municipalities of the metropolitan area and the Council of Mallorca is essential to find efficient solutions to the traffic jams that all Majorcans have suffered for years,” stated President Galmes.

The Council also urged the government to enhance public transport. Key projects include lane rearrangements on the beltway, a new lane at Can Valero estate, and improved lighting in Genoa tunnel. These initiatives form part of the broader Palma Access Plan.

AN off ­ duty lifeguard, having just wrapped up his day, made a heroic save on Tora beach in Paguera, rescuing a 75­yearold German tourist who had vanished in the water.

The lifeguard was already on his way to the bus stop when he was alerted by the frantic shouts of beachgoers. Witnesses reported seeing the elderly man floating and unconscious in the water.

Several individuals brought the stricken

Island action

THE ‘No i punt!’ (‘No’ information point) initiative by the Council of Mallorca has significantly expanded its presence this year, reaching 58 festivals across 42 island municipalities, a notable rise from just 20 last year.

The campaign, aimed at combatting sexist aggressions, saw over 2,700 individuals, 60 per cent being women, approach their information points.

These points not only raise awareness but also offer direct support. “In

fact, it has intervened in six sexual assaults from the point of information, providing emotional support and counselling, and connecting the victims with the services of the network,” the report states. Training sessions have also been introduced in nightlife areas, with six venues in Pollenca adapting their protocols. Antoni Fuster, councillor for the Presidency, expressed satisfaction with the campaign’s progress, but emphasised the ongoing work, stating, “Work is being done on this.”

bather to the shore.

The lifeguard immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and ‘minutes later managed to regain his pulse’. Paramedics soon arrived, stabilising the man before transporting him to a hospital.

Other off­duty lifeguards from the nearby Palmira beach and officers from the Local Police also rushed to the scene. This incident underscores the dedication of Paguera’s lifeguards, even when off the clock, and serves as a reminder of the importance of beach safety.

PALMA celebrated the International Day of Older Persons on Sunday, October 1, honouring the invaluable contributions of its senior citizens, who make up 22.5 per cent of the city’s population.

Mayor Jaime Martinez Llabres inaugurated the event, stating, “Today we celebrate not only longevity, but the wealth of knowledge, experiences and experiences that older people bring to our community. They are a treasure.”

The day was marked with displays of traditional trades, music, and appearances by RCD Mallorca veterans. Councillor for the Elderly, Ma Luisa Marques Rattier, echoed the mayor’s sentiments, “It is essential to recognise and value our elderly people. Their wisdom and experience are a resource of incalculable value for our society.”

Even better, our news online and in print is FREE and we promise to always keep it that way.

STREET CLEANING: The pavements were jet washed.

Credit: palma.cat

Sport for all Opportunities fair

THE picturesque Port of Andratx is set to host ‘La Botiga al Carrer’ this weekend, offering residents and visitors a unique experience. On October 7 and 8, the municipality’s establishments will showcase their offerings at this much-anticipated opportunities fair. The event, presented by Andratx mayor Estefania Gonzalvo and councillor for Economic Promotion, Sandra Milena Valencia, will be held at the lighthouse on Carrer Zorrilla. Saturday’s fair runs from 11.00am to 11.00pm, while Sunday’s timings are 10.00am to 2.00pm.

The Andritxol Town Council promises musical entertainment to add to the festive atmosphere. The primary aim is to boost and uplift local commerce in Andratx, especially post-summer. “We are creating a programme to carry out different activities throughout the year and make the municipality known outside of the summer season,” stated the Andratx government team. This initiative is a testament to Mallorca’s commitment to supporting local businesses and offering diverse experiences year-round.

THE Balearic Islands, particularly Mallorca, are witnessing a concerning surge in the Horseshoe Snake population.

This year alone, wildlife officials have captured over 3,000 snakes across the Balearics. Víctor Colomar, wildlife coordinator for Ibiza and Formentera, stated, “The snakes we have in the Balearics are not a threat to humans, but they are a threat to the environment because

THE Council of Mallorca, in collaboration with the Foundation of the Football Federation of the Balearic Islands (FFIB), is set to rekindle the passion for women’s football with the re-launch of LligA 5. This initiative is a testament to Mallorca’s commitment to promoting women’s sports, particularly football and ensuring it holds a significant place in the island’s sporting culture.

Two open recruitment days have been scheduled, the first on October 22 at the Son Caulelles - Cata Coll field in Portol, and the second on October 29 at the Es Torrento - Mariona Caldentey Oliver field in Felanitx.

Currently, 10 clubs have already registered their in-

terest, showcasing the enthusiasm and anticipation surrounding this league.

The previous season of LligA 5 saw an impressive 16 clubs participating, receiving widespread acclaim from the community and the families of the players.

Snake invasion

they endanger the survival of species such as lizards and some coastal birds.”

Initially believed to be land-bound, these snakes have been spotted swimming in open waters, posing a threat to islands like Dragonera, just off the Mallorcan coast and home

PROVERB

to vulnerable native species. This season, Formentera saw between 600 and 800 captures, Ibiza between 1,500 and 2,000, and Mallorca a few hundred. 2By bibliographic description these invasive snakes are terrestrial, but horseshoe snakes are being seen swimming in the open sea. The danger of invasion of islets is real,” warns Colomar.

The league is open to young girls born between 2009 and 2017, and its primary objective is to increase the number of girls in federated football. This is especially targeted at those who are new to the sport, promoting a more inclusive and

participatory form of football. Notably, LligA 5 is the first women’s football league for base categories in the history of the Balearics, introducing a fresh 5 x 5 format played on grass.

The Council of Mallorca’s dedication to federated sports is evident in its financial support, having allocated grants amounting to €1,045,000 for the 20222023 season. The Council, along with the FFIB, is keen on promoting values such as equality in sports. The FFIB emphasises the importance of increasing the number of federative licences for girls, with the Council echoing the sentiment, highlighting the need for a more socially inclusive football.

Mallorca classics

SINCE its inception in 2004, the Port de Soller Classical Music Festival has been a highlight for Mallorca’s classical music lovers.

This year, in collaboration with renowned pianist Alexander Malter, the festival promises unparalleled performances.

On Saturday, October 7, witness the talents of Susanne Herzog, Dietmar Schwalke, and Malter himself. October 14

brings a string quartet featuring members of the Vienna Philharmonic. Malter returns for a solo on October 21. Each concert is held in the Santa Catalina monastery (now the Museo del Mar) overlooking the port. All performances are scheduled to commence at 7.30pm.

13.6%

SPORTING CULTURE: Mallorca promotes social football.

Credit: Conselldemallorca.cat

The Horseshoe Snake.

OF THE WEEK

“Laughter is the best medicine.” Means when you’re in a difficult situation, laughing can make it easier to get through that situation. This is believed to have originated from the bible. But the power of laughter has long been recognised by medical experts.

the number of people who go to church every Sunday in Spain.

CALA NOVA CANCER

CARE recently hosted a coffee morning at the Secret Garden Portals Nous, supporting island cancer charities. Attendees enjoyed homemade cakes and coffee, generously donated by Dawna, the Secret Garden’s owner.

A particular highlight was Paddy the Irishman, who wowed the crowd with his live vocal renditions of classics from Rod Stewart, Elvis, Tom Jones and Neil Diamond, among others.

Informative speeches were given by Bronwyn Griffiths of Cancer Support and Angela McGrath of Cala Nova. The

Island generosity

event featured a tombola, a children’s shop, and a ‘guess the weight’ contest for a cake baked by Shirley McKenna which was won by Gilly.

An impressive €1,000 was raised for the Cancer Support Group and ASPANOB, the Children’s Cancer Charity.

PALMA City Council’s Assembly Hall witnessed the swearing­in of 24 civil servants on Monday, October 2.

Among them were a maintenance technician, three stage assistants, and 20 social educators. Mayor Jaime Martínez Llabres congratulated the new civil servants, all previously interim workers, stating, “on the new commitment you have made to

Organisers would like to give a heartfelt thanks to all participants, donors, and the dedicated volunteers of Cala Nova Shop.

The charity also posted a reminder to pay a visit to their new shop opposite the Sailing School of Cala Nova.

New staff

the city, from a position of stability that you have earned.”

Deputy Mayor Mercedes Celeste added, “with your stability, the whole council wins and the public service provided to the city also.”

PALMA’S Mayor, Jaime Martinez Llabres, alongside the councillor for Economy, Lupe Ferrer, the councillor for the Elderly, Luisa Marques, and the Director General of Health, MarIa del Carmen Esparza, inaugurated the ‘Activa’t’ course at Ses Voltes on Friday, September 29. This initiative champions active and healthy ageing for those over 60 through physical exercise workshops. Its aim? To prevent injuries, reduce falls, and enhance psychological, cognitive, and emotional well­being.

Originally launched in six health centres: Placa de Toros, Son Dameto, el Viver,

Active ageing

Pere Garau, Son Gotleu and el Coll d’en Rabassa, the programme has welcomed over 400 participants. This year, it’s expanding to Camp Redo and Sant Agusti, with plans to reach all 18 health centres in Palma.

A notable 73 per cent of participants claim healthier habits and an improved quality of life. To join, individuals must be over 60, affiliated with the participating health centre, and meet specific health criteria.

PALMA’S Active Business Network has expanded with the addition of Defcon Palma Informatica. Lupe Ferrer, councillor for Economy and Commerce, and Jose Antonio Martinez of Defcon, signed a collaboration protocol on Monday, October 2. “Thanks to these agreements, PalmaActiva encourages public­private collaboration, especially with our local companies,” Ferrer stated. She highlighted that joining the network is free and promotes training, entrepreneur­

Jobs boost

ship, and job placement.

Martinez commented, “Although Defcon is a small self­employed company, we believe we can collaborate with PalmaActiva in training and employment. We’ve previously participated in guided company visits, helping PalmaActiva educate the youth about our sector.”

WORKSHOPS: Healthy exercise for the over 60s.

Credit: Palma.cat

Coffee morning charity event was a success.

Credit: Cala Nova Cancer Care

Record September

THE Balearic Islands have witnessed a historic surge in employment and membership this September, thanks to the robust tourism sector.

The Minister of Business, Employment and Energy, Alejandro Saenz de San Pedro, alongside the General Director of Employment, Catalina Cabrer, unveiled that the islands now boast 616,789 contributors. In contrast, unemployment stands at 30,154, a mere increase of 23 from August. “These figures are historic,” Saenz de San Pedro stressed. “We would have to go back to 2006 to find similar data. September is consolidated in terms of employment at August levels.”

He further highlighted the resilience of the tourism industry, describing it as the “driving force of activity and of the business and labour fabric of these islands.” This September’s figures are the best in 17 years, showcasing the Balearic Islands as leaders in job creation in Spain.

Spanish pensions

THE Spanish government have announced that starting in 2024, the retirement age in Spain will progressively increase until 2027.

Retirement is a very bizarre situation for many people because the longer that you work, it feels as though the official retirement age starts to get further and further away, making it a long and drawnout process.

For anyone who has worked in Spain and been paying into their ‘Seguridad Social’ Social Security public

pension pot, the retirement age will now be increased over a four­year period, start­

ing on January 1, 2024, and running up until 2027.

From January 1, 2024, people who are working and have worked in Spain and have paid their Social Security contributions for more than 37 years and nine months will be able to officially retire when they reach the age of 66 years and six months.

In simpler words, an additional two months will now be added to the minimum retirement age from the start of next year, that is in compari­

son to what the age has been in 2023.

Those people who are over the age of 65 and have paid Social Security for more than 38 years will be able to access ordinary retirement, while also receiving 100 per cent of their pension, as per the new rules.

There is an alternative for people living in Spain, however, and this is taking voluntary early retirement. This can be taken up by people when they are up to two years premature to their legal retirement age, so when you are 64 years and six months old.

Retiring early always sounds like a great idea and an ideal way for people to spend their latter years in comfort and relaxation, but it does obviously still have its drawbacks, none more so than you may not be entitled to receive your full pension.

Instead, you will only receive a fraction of the lump sum depending on how early you decide to take this voluntary decision, and also how long you have been contributing toward the Social Security.

As mentioned above, the retirement age is set to progressively get further away for people, so in 2025, 2026 and finally, 2027, it only appears to be bad news for people with one eye on retirement, because in four years time, the legal retirement age will be 67.

For people who own a UK state pension, but find they have gaps in their National Insurance contribution due to the fact they have been residing abroad, then the government has decreed an extension for them to pay and plug those holes and in turn, receive their full UK pension.

RETIREMENT AGE: Seems to get further and further away.

Hold the Front Page

By John Smith

IN the first series of Hold the Front Page, comedians Nish Kumar and Josh Widdicombe travelled around the UK experiencing the life of local news reporters.

They spent a week or so with a number of different publications including the Scotsman, Yorkshire Post and Farming Life , finding themselves reporting from the Edinburgh Fringe and even trying to interview Boris Johnson.

When the series was aired on Sky Max it was well received by viewers and this encouraged the channel to commission a second series but looking further afield and the logical choice was Spain.

Production company CPL did their homework and understandably realised that in order to make the concept work, they had to insert the two ‘cub reporters’ into an English language newspaper and the obvious choice was Euro Weekly News which publishes weekly editions across seven popular Spanish regions.

The choice for the first episode to be shot was Benidorm which is such a popular resort for both local British residents and holiday­ makers and after several discussions concerning how the filming was to proceed, EWN proprietors Michel and Steven Euesden supported by local staff spent a week in Benidorm as the show was created.

There was no guarantee that all, or indeed any of the stories that the pair chose would be used, but the cameras followed their briefing, decision making, on the spot interviews and then their creative process.

Four topics were chosen, first the opening of an exhibition of sculpture by Josh which was a bit

too dry to make the paper, followed by a ‘gut busting breakfast’ which Nish fought his way through.

This did make the paper, but the editorial team thought that perhaps full English breakfasts are more popular with visitors than residents and therefore the story was extended to mention the fact that many people may prefer to sample the Menu del Dia available in numerous restaurants in Benidorm.

Filming is not quick by any stretch of the imagination and although the Costa Blanca North edition normally goes to the printers on Tuesday evening, the deadline was moved back by 24 hours to allow them more time to arrange interviews.

A front page story about Josh and Nish’s visit had already been written and much of the paper laid out but they had two further stories to be filmed, a visit to a psychic dating night and then a

journey to Hugo’s Home Farm an animal charity run by Colin whose alter ego is popular drag artist Coco Chanel.

Time was tight and in theory the Coco story missed the deadline and should have been left out but by moving the Psychic Dating nearer the back, we manged to fit both articles into the paper and although printing ran through the night, the paper was produced and distributed around Costa Blanca North as usual on Thursday.

All of those involved from the proprietors, to the editorial team and the designers who handled all changes during the day were delighted with the results.

There was a combination of giggles and near misses but we all look forward to the programme being aired in January or February 2024 and do keep a lookout for more news of the show from your people’s paper, Euro Weekly News.

NISH & JOSH: Spent time filming with the EWN directors.

BUSINESS EXTRA

BBB losses

THE state­owned British Business Bank (BBB), reported an annual pre ­ tax loss of more than £147 million (€169.15 million). The economic development bank made £1.6 billion (€1.84 billion) in funding agreements but said “wider economic problems” led to a drop in the value of businesses it invested in.

Freight mate

SPAIN’S rail operator Renfe chose Swiss shipping line MSC to take over 50 per cent of its Renfe Mercancias freight division, whose debts rose to €38 million in 2022. MSC’s logistics division Medlog and its Medway railway company will be responsible for the operation which first needs the Spanish government’s authorisation.

Food not fuel

MORRISONS does not intend to abandon plans to sell off its fuel forecourts despite the UK government’s decision to postpone its ban on new petrol and diesel car sales until 2035. Although the fuel retailing attracted customers, the supermarket chain intends to concentrate on food sales and manufacturing, sources said.

Czech-in

INFRASTRUCTURE multinational Ferrovial, which controversially moved its headquarters from Spain to the Netherlands earlier this year, intends to consolidate its presence in Central Europe. It now hopes to create a consortium to bid for the €1.35 billion contract to build and manage the Czech Republic’s D35 motorway.

Drink up

PROFITS for AG Barr, famous as the Irn Bru manufacturer, reported half ­ year profits between February and July 30 which climbed 12.6 per cent to a pre­tax £27.8 million (€31.9 million). Sales rose thanks to recent takeovers and a rise in the demand for soft drinks, AG Barr sources explained.

STAT OF WEEK €5.1 billion

More UK Airbus jobs

Linda Hall

AIRBUS plans to create another 1,100 jobs in the UK specialising in cyber security, software engineering, cryogenics and robotics.

The world’s largest aircraft manufacturer, its HQ in Leiden (Netherlands), currently employs 134,000 people worldwide. Of these, 11,500 work in the UK where Airbus manufactures wings for all its aircraft. The principal Airbus factories are located in Filton, near Bristol, and Broughton (North Wales) as well as an aerospace plant in Portsmouth.

At present the total UK workforce still has not re­

turned to the 14,000 employed in 2019, before Covid grounded practically all flights and the company had to cut jobs worldwide.

Despite the newly­created UK posts for engineers, graduates and apprentices, staff numbers will remain below

DEOLEO has announced losses of €9.7 million during the first six months of 2023 owing to soaring olive oil prices.

In contrast, the company reported net profits of €5.5 million between January and the end of June in 2022.

Spain produces more than half of the world’s entire olive oil supply and Deoleo, which is the world’s largest branded olive oil company, attributed the dip to their products’ higher prices. Supermarket chains’ own­label oil had eaten into their own market share, sources said.

The company, which owns household names Carbonell and Hojiblanca as well as the Koipe sunflower oil label, saw a 21.9 per cent fall in the sales, compared with the same period last

On-off deal

FROZEN seafood company Nueva Pescanova cut redundances at its Madrid and Chapela (Pontevedra) installations from 100 to 81. The company, 97.8 per cent owned by Abanca, reported €53 million losses for the year ending in March and has been negotiating for months the sale of an 80 per cent stake to the Canadian seafood giant Cooke. Talks have stalled although Nueva Pescanova said these would resume in September. Meanwhile, a spokesman rejected rumours that a large cash shortage and financial mismanagement threatened the deal, which Cooke reduced from €150 to €100 million plus a €200 million capital injection last July.

pre­pandemic levels.

A survey by Oxford Economics, an independent economic advisory firm, has concluded Airbus contributed £7bn (€8.05bn) to the UK economy in 2022, with its helicopter, aerospace and defence sectors providing

79,000 indirect jobs. The company spent £3.9bn (€4.5bn) on obtaining supplies from British companies and made £5.6bn (€6.4 bn) in UK sales last year.

Referring to the Oxford Economics report, Airbus UK’s chairman John Harrison said findings demonstrated Airbus was “good for jobs, good for growth, and good for the UK.”

Harrison pointed out that Airbus had “deep roots” in the UK supply chain and that its investments across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland were creating long­term regional and local growth.

Carbonell sales slide

Turnover for the company, which has production plants in Italy as well as Spain, grew by 0.6 per cent to €400.95 million thanks to passing on part of the price increase to clients, but margins were still reduced. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) plummeted by 43 per cent between this January and the end of June to €12.7 million.

MARKS & SPENCER will begin selling Adidas and Sweaty Betty products in early October.

The retailer launched Brands at M&S in March 2021 after purchasing Jaeger, its first third ­ party label, in January that year.

The high street favourite will now offer 150 Adidas and Sweaty Betty items on The Sports Edit platform, in which it acquired a stake in 2022.

Expanding the M&S sports ranges was “just one of the ways we continue to become more relevant to clients’ lifestyles,” Brands director Nishi Mahajan said.

Aena grows

SPAIN’S publicly owned airports operator Aena will build a new terminal at Conghas airport in Sao Paulo (Brazil).

The airport, the country’s second busiest, should be completed by 2028, Aena said.

As well as Congonhas, Aena will take over the running of 10 smaller Brazilian airports in October and November after putting in a $479 million (€465 million) bid for the 30­year contract in August 2022.

year, Deoleo announced on September 25.

Shares in Deoleo, which has been 57 per cent owned by private equity firm CVC for the last 10 years, fell five per cent to 23 cents the same day.

Santander-EY split

SANTANDER and consultancy and accounting firm, Ernst & Young (EY), have parted ways in the UK.

This signals the termination of their contract and a multimillion refund following ‘failings’ in EY’s work on preventing financial crime and money­laundering, revealed sources quoted by the Financial Times Santander brought in EY when it found itself under scrutiny from British regulators, the sources added.

The work the company carried out was so allegedly so substandard that it found itself in a position where it had to offer the bank a refund of approximately £15 million (€17.2 million).

EY’s Santander mission, codenamed Project Morgan, “went badly wrong over an extended period” the Financial Times said, adding that it was unclear whether Santander would now carry out the work itself, or call on another firm.

“On the other hand, higher interest rates and the cost of renegotiating the company’s debt have had an impact of €8 million on financial services overheads during this period,” Deoleo said in its first half report.

Nissan ignores Sunak

NISSAN is continuing with plans to sell only electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe by 2030.

Despite PM Rishi Sunak’s intention of moving the UK deadline on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales from 2030 to 2035, the Japanese company said that all new models sold in Europe will be 100 per cent electric by the end of this decade.

Nissan, which employs 7,000 people in the UK is on the point of launching two new EVs in Europe. One will be a successor to the Micra, while another vehicle will be built via a £1 billion (€1.15 billion) project at its huge Sunderland plant.

The company, which already operates six airports in Brazil, revealed that in the meantime it has already invested €620 million in the new acquisitions.

Lower bills

WATER companies in England and Wales were ordered to lower bills and return £114 million (€131.2 million) to customers next year.

The annual report on the companies from the Water Services Regulation Authority, Ofwat, said that most water and wastewater firms had underperformed.

Fewer than 50 per cent met targets and progress had been “too slow” on leakages as well as sewage spills.

Thames Water, Southern Water and Welsh Water must return £101 million (€115.2), million), £43 million (€49.5 million) and £24 million (€27.6 million) respectively.

However, Severn Trent and United Utilities were authorised to hike bills after meeting targets.

plans set out by energy infrastructure company Enagas would distribute clean, green hydrogen to Spanish homes via a 3,800kilometre network of pipelines and storage centres.

AIRBUS: Wing Technology Centre in Filton (Bristol).

OLIVE OIL: Spain produces half the world’s supply.

Photo credit: Pixabay/ZTA

Photo credit: airbus.com

LONDON - FTSE 100

DOW JONES

Euro

EUR/GBP: Up from £0.85 to £0.86

EUR/USD: Unchanged at $1.06

The euro faced resistance over the past month, primarily driven by a scaling back of European Central Bank (ECB) interest rate expectations. This was initially linked to comments from ECB policymaker Isabel Schnabel, as despite being one of the most hawkish members of the bank, she was noncommittal regarding future interest rate hikes.

A slew of underwhelming German data releases as well as a downwardly revised Eurozone GDP print kept the euro on the back foot as we entered September.

EUR exchange rates then faced notable losses in the wake of the ECB’s latest rate decision. While the bank’s decision to raise rates came as something of a surprise, the euro tumbled as its policy statement signalled borrowing costs had now peaked. Looking ahead, the euro may come under further pressure in the coming weeks if

CURRENCY OUTLOOK: EUROZONE KNOCKED BY ECB’S ‘DOVISH’ HIKE, US DOLLAR RALLIES TO MULTI-MONTH HIGHS

Eurozone data releases remain broadly downbeat.

Pound

GBP/EUR: Down from €1.16 to €1.15

GBP/USD: Down from $1.24 to $1.22

The Pound fluctuated through the last part of August. Sterling sentiment was initially knocked by a surprise contraction in the UK’s latest PMIs, before recovering thanks to rising Bank of England (BoE) interest rate expectations.

Sterling then faltered again at the start of September in response to comments from BoE Governor Andrew Bailey, in which he suggested UK inflation will fall ‘markedly’ by the end of the year, and that the bank is ‘nearer to the top of the [tightening] cycle’.

Some lacklustre UK data, including a mixed jobs report and a worrying slump in UK GDP keep the pressure on the pound in mid-September as they gave rise to fresh recession fears.

Sterling then slid to multi-month lows in the wake of the BoE’s latest in-

terest rate decision as the bank opted to hit pause for the first time in almost two years.

While the BoE left the door open to raising rates again in the future, it made it clear this will be highly data driven. As a result, GBP investors will be keeping a close on upcoming economic releases. If there is further sign that the UK economy is stalling Sterling will be vulnerable to additional losses.

US Dollar

USD/GBP: Up from $0.80 to $0.81

USD/EUR: Up from €0.93 to €0.94

The US dollar trended broadly higher over the past four weeks, with demand for the currency being underpinned by Federal Reserve interest rate expectations and notable demand for safe-haven assets.

Before this however, the ‘greenback’ suffered a short-lived selloff at the end of August as domestic labour statistics suggested the US job market is slowing. At the start of September USD demand was strengthened by a souring market mood as disappointing Chinese data and a spike in oil prices

rattled investors.

This upside was reinforced in the following week as upbeat US economic releases stoked Fed rate hike bets.

The US dollar was then propelled to new multi-month highs in the wake of the Fed’s latest interest rate decision. While the US central bank kept interest rates on hold it left the door open to one more rate hike in 2023 and signalled it would cut rates at a slower pace than previously expected in 2024.

With the Fed apparently committed to at least one more rate hike this year it’s likely the US dollar will maintain a positive trajectory in the weeks ahead of its next meeting on 1 November. At the same time an increasingly pessimistic outlook for the global economy is also likely to be supportive of USD exchange rates.

Currencies Direct have helped over 430,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

EURO: Faced resistance over the past month.

I believe in diversity

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

I TRULY do believe in diversity. The peaceful co-existence of different creeds, cultures, colours and religions, is to me a forgone conclusion. One day our planet will simply have no choice but to blend all humans into that great big melting plot Madeline Bell and the glorious Blue Mink sang bout in the peace loving 60s (recording now banned by the media!). But not in the way the woke affiliates of the utterly deluded, or deviously intentioned organisations are trying to attain it.

Their dubious efforts are all much too hurried and belligerent and subsequently having a reverse effect. It stands to reason. If 85 per cent of the population is white, you can’t flood often ridiculous propaganda through the public media proclaiming that all members of the population are living together in a wonderful, equally harmonious integrated existence - It’s simply not true. What is actually transpiring is that even those of the in-

digenous majority, who were earlier full of encouragement and a firm belief that the future lay in the blending of our different nationalities and backgrounds, are now watching these disproportionate activities with increasing incredibility.

More and more ads are being dominated by black actors, often cast in senior positions giving advice to somewhat subservient appearing white performers. Discussion programmes and news sections consistently feature black interviewees and often include a large influx of nonwhite presenters featuring subjects undermining UK activities. And all brought into their living rooms daily.

These viewers are subsequently going out into their real world and realising this is not the true position at all. Consequently derision, and in some cases growing anger, is increasing daily. Asian and black ‘No go’ areas are expanding rapidly. Gangs of armed black youths are out roaming streets. This last outrage, the murder of the 15-year-old, has only hit the headlines because the tragic victim was a young pupil on her way to school; what she did in her spare time we will of course never be told.

AUTUMN LOOKING GOOD OUR VIEW

There have in fact been 15 teenagers (two white), already stabbed to death this year, in London alone! These crimes of violence, which used to make the front page, are now controlled by these silent leftie propaganda policies and barely breaking news on page four! No wonder the ridiculous woke inspired plot is crumbling. The whole country is falling apart and the majorities are not allowed to mention their disapproval because they run the risk of being accused of racism.

A highly publicised survey carried out last week reported a large percentage of the black minority were not happy with the way they were treated by the white society. One young lady stated that she was always aware of the white reaction to her colour when she applied for a job. No accusations of reverse racism you notice.

What it does reveal however is that the policies of the left are completely misconstrued, misguided and actually having a completely damaging effect on UK’s culture and future existence.

Keep the faith.

Love Leapy leapylee2002@hotmail.com

TRADITIONALLY much of the Spanish tourist industry closes down for the autumn but latest figures suggest that even if that is the case, those that remain open could be in for a bumper quarter.

There is a thriving ice cream parlour in the Marbella suburb of San Pedro that only opens from Easter until the end of September and the owners simply enjoy a very long break having made enough money in the summer to see them through the ‘colder’ months. Many hotels are the same, although with the National Government and local Tourist Offices promoting ‘out of season’ holidays there is generally a growing demand for accommodation and this is helped in no small way by the Imserso pensioners holidays sponsored by the government.

Even if the actual number of visitors in the autumn is less than in the summer, those establishments that do stay open could find themselves doing very well as numbers of visitors swell and fewer places are open to cater for them. Tourism continues to be a very important contributor to the Spanish economy, not just because of the taxes that are raised but by the fact that more tourists means more staff staying in employment, thus reducing the burden of social services.

The only fear that one must have is that those supplying beds, sustenance, travel and entertainment need to be very careful about pricing, because with the increasing cost of living many tourists are more than ever looking to obtain value for money and won’t hesitate to look elsewhere if they feel they are being taken advantage of.

We must hope that the growth in the number of visitors in October continues for the benefit of the economy.

Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

SERVING UP ALL THE WRONG INGREDIENTS

ever asked to pitch ‘Mona Lisa’ on a sheet of A4 but, if he had been, he wouldn’t have typed ‘Paint. Woman. Smile’.

BACK in the UK recently I noticed there’s currently a trend among chefs for glib brevity with menus. A kind of adjective­free minimalism like this: “Beef, potato, leaves, ferment.” It feels like every restaurant in London with culinary pretensions describes dishes as a list of ingredients. A narcissistic and unhelpful trend that’s utterly played­out. The die was cast when things started costing 3.5 or 12. Hmm!

Words are helpful. Pictures, too. The realistic, plastic representations of dishes even more so, especially in foreign countries (like Japan) when neither traditional dishes are known, or ways of cooking.

I don’t suppose Leonardo da Vinci was

Imagine if marketing/promotional stuff for movies was like this: 1. America. Italian Family. Father. Son. Horse’s Head. 2. Young Boy. Lost Alien. Returns Home. 3. Pink. Gosling. Ryan.

Or, describing politicians: Ex­President USA. Insurrection. Indictment. Guilty? Prison? Nearer home: 1. PM. Multi ­ millionaire. Small boats. On the Ropes.

2. Ex­PM. Lockdown­Busting Parties. Wallpaper. Lies.

3. Ex ­ PM. Referendum. Brexit. Shame. Got it? Answers on a postcard please to: Novelist. Columnist. 14 Riveting Years of ‘Breaking Views’!

Nora Johnson’s 12 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers (www.nora­johnson.net) all available online including eBooks (€0.99; £0.99), Apple Books, audiobooks, paperbacks at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.

Nora Johnson’s opinions are her own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

NORA’S LATEST THRILLER.

Nora is the author of popular psychological suspense and crime thrillers and a freelance journalist.

NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

THE recent decision by the Welsh Government to impose a 20mph speed limit in built up areas has come in for a great deal of criticism within Wales and readers of Euro Weekly News were quick in coming forward with their views on the matter.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has reacted quickly at the latest Conservative Party Conference and has indicated that government policy will make it more difficult for such speed limits to be introduced as a blanket measure as well as cracking down on the imposition of Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) although it seems as if the Greater London ULEZ could well damage Labour’s election hopes in the south.

Implementing a 20mph speed limit can have several potential benefits. It may enhance road safety, particularly in residential areas and areas with high pedestrian or cyclist activity. Lower speeds generally reduce the severity of accidents and increase the chances of survival for pedestrians in case of collisions.

J Aitken

Some critics may argue that such limits might inconvenience drivers and could lead to increased traffic congestion. Public opinion on these initiatives often varies, with some supporting the focus on safety and others expressing concerns about practicality. These things never suit everyone.

V Green

Agree, goes hand in hand with other rights as a biped being removed, ie free speech. Everything is on its head with no logic applied, all political narrative. A vehicle at 20 will generate more energy pollution as carbon, noise and heat. Logic, schools and limited other roads yes, but not blanket, the percentage of tragedy is low, there but low. What are we trying to do reduce it to zero, another illogical zero policy, the few impacting the many.

D Hurford

Cars aren’t made to be driven at 20mph, this is just more Agenda 2030 bull designed to remove our freedoms. Have you heard about places in the US where they are banning meat, dairy and new clothes? Come on people, we need to stop this crap before it starts. I’d like to see the UN, World Economic Forum and all l those other idiotic psycho-

pathic organisation disbanded. Who the hell do they think they are? We didn’t vote for you and your agendas, you know where you can stick them!

N Yianni

Licence Exchange

I would like to give an account of the exchange of UK driving licence to Spanish , how Tráfico have rendered thousands that handed in their UK licence to them ! Now we are without any licence, unable to drive for months !! Possibly until January!! UK licence was supposed to be EXCHANGED for Spanish or at least a temporary Spanish licence. That has not been done. I got all relevant docs plus UK licence to my solicitor by May 9, had receipt for all docs from Tráfico May 24. Have had no temp licence in return four months ago, still no licence. I’m 75, live alone, hence my car is my lifeline! I am still not allowed to drive and they tell me it could be many months before they respond!! So wish I hadn’t taken up residency! Please print this, I bet thousands of people are in the same situation. Thank you in anticipation.

Marlene Raybould

Fighting depopulation

The lack of goverment grants is a big factor in detering population of declining village numbers, IVA attached to basic repairs like roofs and water supplies are putting people off. I have witnessed people turning up to view properties and walking away when the basic repairs + IVA attached is offputting. Italy came up with a scheme to prevent small villages from being ghost towns and if the Spanish government wish to avoid the same, then a radical rethink is long overdue?

Mark

PETS

Find checked cat-sitters for free

FINDING good cat­sitters gives peace of mind.

When you’re planning to go away for the holidays, finding care for your pets can be a big worry. Big holidays like Christmas and New Year need early planning. And knowing you can find free checked sitters via Housesitmatch could be a real boost to your holiday. How does it work?

It’s a fair exchange

All our sitters offer a fair exchange ­ free accommodation for free pet care and an online review. It’s a win win!

If you’re planning a trip for the holidays, don’t delay. Register today as a member of our network to find affordable home and pet care.

Plan ahead to secure great sitters

However long your trip pets need someone with them at home. Young and senior pets in particular benefit from routines undisturbed. Plan ahead of time to find house and pet­sitters who will come to you for free!

Next steps to join

Choose Housesitmatch.com for affordable travel, home and pet care. These are the steps to take:

1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSit Match.com

2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to

ensure you can help online when needed

3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose.

How does it work?

HouseSitMatch helps you find sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety and then build your advert with trip dates. House­sitters see your advert, they respond and you choose the sitter you want.

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10 out of 10 for housesitmatch.com

I have had nothing but good and helpful service from the people who run this site, and my experience has been excellent. Tristram Cosgrave ­ Dog and cat owner, Malaga

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Register online via www.Housesitmatch.com

House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either housesitter or homeowner with a 20% discount code 20EWN.

Pets join the meal

A NEW trend is taking place in Spain’s cafes and restaurants in many busy cities. More and more places are not just allowing pets in; they’re making them a big part of the dining fun.

Everyone knows about tapas, those tasty little dishes Spain is famous for. Now, imagine something like that, but for pets! Yes, some cafes are offering small treats just for dogs and cats.

So, while you enjoy your meal, your furry friend can have their own special snack. Many of these places have outdoor areas where pets can sit comfortably. They have water bowls and spots for pets to chill out. Some even have special menus just for dogs and cats, with things like petfriendly ice creams. This new trend shows just how much Spain loves its pets.

Eating out is a big deal for many people, and now, our pets can enjoy it too.

Itos all about sharing good times and good food with those we love, furry friends included.

Cat-sitters keep your pets company while you’re away.

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Manager fired after 10 months

THE first managerial casualty of the Scottish Premiership occurred on Sunday, October 1.

Rangers Football Club confirmed that it had parted company with Michael Beale, the Glasgow club’s men’s first­team manager.

In an official statement on rangers.co.uk, they wrote: ‘The Rangers board would like to put on record their thanks to Michael and his staff for their efforts since joining the club last November.’

It continued: ‘Results this season have fallen short of what everyone connected to Rangers would expect. Therefore, the decision was reached today to terminate the contract of the manager, as well as the contracts of coaches Neil Banfield, Damian Matthew, Harry Watling and Jack Ade.

‘The club is pleased to an­

nounce that Steven Davis will lead the interim management team. The team will consist of former Rangers player and hugely experienced coach Alex Rae, former Rangers player and current coach Steven Smith, coach Brian Gilmour, and goalkeeping coach, Colin Stewart,’ the statement concluded.

John Bennett, the Rangers Chairman, commented: “I’d like to thank Michael for his dedicated work since he re­joined the club as manager last November. It is clear that results have fallen well short of the board’s, Michael’s and our supporters’ expectations.”

“The search process for the new manager is already underway. I wish Steven Davis and the interim management team every success ­ they will remain in charge for as long as it takes to make the right appointment,” he explained.

Beale was appointed as head coach at Ibrox last November.

With only seven games of the new campaign played, the Glasgow giants have already lost three league matches and currently trail their city rivals Celtic by seven points.

Europe’s golfers win Ryder Cup

A THRILLING final day’s play at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome, saw Europe’s golfers retain the iconic Ryder Cup.

Team Europe had been in total control of the 44th Ryder Cup since Friday, September 29, ending the day with a commanding 5­0 lead.

Going into the last day on Sunday, October 1, they only needed four points to secure victory. Scottie Scheffler and Spain’s 2023 Masters winner Jon Rahm tied their match while Norway’s Viktor Hovland then moved his team nearer to the prize by beating Collin Morikawa 4&3.

Justin Rose went down 2&1 in the next match to Patrick Cantalay, giving the US a temporary reprieve. When a fired­up Rory McIlroy defeated Sam Burns 3&1 in the next match, it left Europe needing only one and a half points for victory.

Europe were subsequently within half a point of lifting the trophy when Tyrell Hatton beat the Open champion Brian Harman 3&2, making the score 14­7.

Meanwhile, Brooks Koepka sunk his ball on the 16th to secure victory over Ludvig Aberg and cut the Team USA

deficit by one more point.

Last year’s US Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick had the chance to be one to seal the win but the score became 14­9 when Max Homa held his nerve on the 18th to take the match after his opponent missed his putt.

A comeback was on the cards when Xander Schauffele beat Denmark’s Nicolai Hojgaard 3&2 at the 16th to make it 14­10. The tension rose further when Justin Thomas holed a birdie on the 18th to beat Austrian golfer Sepp Straka, and it was 14­11.

Victory was complete when England’s Tommy Fleetwood placed his putt just three feet from the pin in the 17th. Rickie Fowler conceded the match at 3&1 to make the score 15­11 and spark jubilant scenes at the Italian golf course.

Despite having the trophy in the bag, Robert MacIntyre gave Team Europe an even bigger lead of 16­11 by beating Wyndham Clark 2&1 at the 17th.

Jordan Spieth missed an eagle putt to eventually halve the final match with Shane Lowry to make the final score Europe 16½­11½ USA.

Tommy Fleetwood winning the Ryder Cup 2023 for Team Europe.