• Issue No. 2013 • 1 - 7 February 2024
Palma Airport HAVING seen an incredible 31.1 million passengers landing or departing on a quarter of a million flights through Palma Airport work has restarted on renovations. Operating company Aena recognises the importance of offering a modern, comfortable and as relaxing as possible an experience for passengers and has committed just under €250 million to achieve this. Some work started in 2023 but now that the tourist season is at a lower ebb, work is starting again and part of the airport has already been demolished with plans to replace that with a four-storey extension which will link to the main arrival and departures terminal. New and more efficient baggage carousels will be installed in the arrivals area and additional check-in counters will be created in departures in order to make it quicker and easier to clear on arrival and check-in on departure. Moving security from the fourth to the second floor not only makes it easier for passengers to pass through, but this will free up space on the fourth floor to allow for an increase in the number of shops and other facilities offered to passengers which will in turn generate additional income for the operator. Passport control will also be streamlined as part of the improvement plans.
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GIANTS ARRIVE
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Day of Peace Credit: Consell de Mallorca
Mallorca
Releasing the doves.
Credit: Palma Council
Just one of the sets of Giants parading through Palma.
John Smith ON Saturday January 27, there was a gathering of Giants in Palma with examples arriving from some 14 different municipalities and suburbs of the city. Thanks to the good weather, a large crowd turned up to enjoy the 26th Trobada de Gegants de Palma (Meeting of the Palma Giants). Each group brought with them their own pipers (xeremiers) and the parade started at 10am with each collection of Giants setting off towards the Plaza de Cort. There have been records of Giants in Palma since 1734 but those made to look human first appeared 1904 when Palma Council commissioned ceramicist La Roqueta de Palma to create Tofol and Bet-Maria who made regular appearances in festivals until 1936, when they became unlikely ca-
sualties of the Civil War. After Franco took control, two new Giants Tofol and Francinaina were created in the 1940s and they stood guard outside City Hall on special occasions until they were blown over by strong winds and were then vandalised. Come the 1960s Tofol and Francinaina were reborn
and eventually joined by two musicians and another pair of giants Tomeu and Margalida who are currently all in one piece and the pride of the Palma Council. There is no doubt that the Giants are well respected in Mallorca and whenever they make an appearance, crowds are bound to welcome them.
ALMOST 1,000 schoolchildren chosen from 12 schools on the island took part in the Day of Non-Violence and Peace on Tuesday January 30. Organised by the Consell de Mallorca at the Misericordia Cultural Centre this was a day to encourage children to stand up and say no to violence. Three students were given the role of reading the Peace Day manifesto and exclaimed that “we are citizens of the world and that differences of race, language and ideologies do not have to separate us, quite the contrary” before a number of doves were released. The children also sang Hallelujah written by the late Leonard Cohen, enjoyed some snacks and were invited to present images of peace that they had drawn.
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1 - 7 February 2024
Credit: FSO Facebook
The FSO returns
MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS: Music with a difference.
SOME concerts at the Palma Auditorium seem destined to sell out almost as soon as they are announced and it appears there are few tickets left for the Film Symphony Orchestra (FSO) concert. The FSO recreates the music of some of the great movie soundtracks of all time and their latest national tour is entitled Henko with two performances taking place on Saturday March 16 at 5pm and 8.45pm. Henko is made up of the words Hen, which means change, and Ko , which has the meaning ‘with a different light’ and basically the FSO offers a real change in the presentation of a symphony orchestra as it incorporates, lights, videos and live action alongside an exceptional cast of musicians. Music that you can expect to hear in these exceptional concerts include 007: Skyfall, Mulan, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, The Rock, Star-Wars: Obi Wan Kenobi, Super Mario Bros, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, The Godfather, Pocahontas, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Visit https://auditoriumpalma.koobin.com/ to book your tickets online.
Jürgen Klopp and Mallorca
John Smith THE unexpected announcement by Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp on January 26 that he would be stepping down at the end of this season came as a surprise. He says that he wants to take a oneyear break from football, needing to unwind and spend more time with his family, although his contract with the British side doesn’t actually expire until 2026. With a significant German population in Mallorca, Klopp followed the decision made by his friend and former colleague Christian Heidel who actually started Klopp on the management trail at Mainz 05 to purchase a property on the island. Klopp bought his multimillion euro finca which is situated in Santa Ponsa in 2022 so it’s a reasonable expectation that he and his family will take HOUSING is a constant struggle for many people, but more so for youngsters who have come through foster care or have been in trouble with the law. A special property, with 14 residential places is
Credit: Liverpool Football Club
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STEPPING DOWN: Jürgen Klopp still has his sights set on more silverware.
advantage of the opportunity to enjoy his year off in their Mallorca retreat. By a perhaps enormous stretch of the imagination, if he misses the world of football perhaps one way of getting back into the saddle would be to work with Real Mallorca assuming that they manage not
to get relegated this season. He will obviously be on every major club’s want list but whereas Liverpool might understandably be reluctant to release him from his contract to take over at a significant competitor they might be comfortable with the somewhat less high-profile Real Mallorca.
Youth housing being opened in Bunyola where young people aged between 20 and 25 will be offered somewhere to live under limited supervision but with help in education and assistance in searching
for a job. Subject to a number of requirements, those eligible who are prepared to accept a level of supervision will be able to stay in the accommodation for up to 12
months by which time, they should be ready to find their own way within society. This is the latest property available to young persons and brings the total of places on offer to 152 which even then is tiny when just 16 per cent of young people can actually afford to rent their own properties.
IN a significant development for air travel in Mallorca, the Balearic Islands Control Centre, currently situated at Palma airport, is set to relocate to the Son Bonet aerodrome. This move, orchestrated by ENAIRE, Spain’s air navigation manager, is designed to bolster operational efficiency and optimise the use of resources, infrastructure, and public investments. This transition, ENAIRE states, will not disrupt ongoing services. The Son
Sant Joan site, which currently houses both the Air Control Centre and the Control Tower, as well as ENAIRE’s Balearic regional management, is undergoing extensive renovations by Aena. The relocation aims to facilitate the integration of cutting-edge airspace management operations, thereby enhancing service quality and lessening
environmental impacts. Compliance with energy efficiency and sustainability standards is also a key aspect of this upgrade. Though the Control Centre moves, the Control Tower will remain anchored at Palma Airport. The shift, marked as the most optimal option, will occur smoothly, guaranteeing service continuity and maintaining competitive rates.
Skyward shift
Mallorcan solidarity
ON Tuesday, January 30, the President of the Council of Mallorca, Llorenc Galmes, met with Artem Vorobyov, the Consul General of Ukraine in Barcelona, to express the island’s unwavering support for Ukraine. In 2023, the Council, through the Mallorcan Solidarity and Cooperation Fund, contributed €100,000, in support of Ukrainian municipalities like Odesa and Dnipro. These funds are crucial for integrating displaced persons and providing emergency assistance and basic services. This initiative also includes the involve-
ment of local organisations like AMAR Ukraine and the Ukrainian Family Association. Galmes stated, “we do not forget the critical situation that the population of Ukraine continues to experience. We are committed to mobilising all possible resources to help the Ukrainian people through the cooperation actions coordinated by the Mallorcan Solidarity Fund, so that the aid is as effective as possible and to ensure that the funded projects respond to the real needs in the country.”
LOCAL NEWS II euroweeklynews.com Flying high
ALTHOUGH not as popular as kite flying in Asia, there were quite a few adults and children flying their decorative kites in Palma on Sunday January 28 in celebration of Saint Sebastian and each year the number participating grows and the kites are more imaginative.
Lucky spot
WALKERS and others taking the air on Sunday January 28 were delighted to spot a pair of dolphins playing in the waters near to the shore at Platja de na Nadala beach in Palmanova. It certainly made the day for those who saw the pair.
Jessica Sweeting THE Calvia Sa Rua (Carnival) is due to take place on Saturday February 10 and once again, you can expect literally hundreds of adults and children fancy dressed to impress. If you want to take part, then it is possible to enrol either individually or as part of a troupe between February 1 and 8 by completing the form which can be downloaded via the Calvia Council Facebook page. There are prizes ranging from €300 to €700 and it’s guaranteed fo-
Calvia Carnival Credit: Calvia Council Sa Rua
NIBS EXTRA
1 - 7 February 2024
Everyone needs a unicorn in their parade.
New fire engines
New books
THANKS to support from the Mallorcan Association for Aid to Refugees from Ukraine (AMAR Ukraine) and the Consulate General of Ukraine in Barcelona, the Can Sales public library in Palma will be stocking a selection of books in Ukrainian to assist those refugees on the island.
TV stations
IT is estimated that some 723 households in Mallorca will be unable to receive Spanish TV as the country moves over to high definition transmission, so the Balearic Government has created a fund to grant up to €250 per household to instal a special receiver.
Cyber woes
FOLLOWING the early January cyber-attack on the Calvia Council computer system, things are still not resolved and it appears unlikely that the town hall systems will be completely up and running until sometime in February.
Tree fellers
A LAST minute approach from the Balearic Tree Association to a Palma court has temporarily stopped Palma Council from cutting down four trees in the Plaça Llorenç Villalonga.
Presentation of the new fire engines.
Credit: Consell de Mallorca
WITH the ongoing threat of climate change and weather generally getting warmer with less rain, the threat of fire is an ever growing concern. The Mallorca Fire Brigade’s stations in Alcudia and Arta have each just received a brand new tender at a combined cost to the Consell de Mallorca of €744,029. These two new vehicles are the latest in fire fighting technology and will complement the existing fleet in those two stations. These two vehicles will see front line service as they are most suitable for speedy response to urban fires or traffic accidents although they are versatile enough to be suitable to be involved in situations where trees come down or streets need to be urgently washed down. In order to cope with the cleansing problem, the capacity to generate foam has been tripled when compared to earlier models and the vehicles are equipped with a portable battery-powered fan that can expel smoke from rooms and buildings.
More parking SPANISH National regulations mean that it is considered illegal for anyone to park in front of what is known as a ‘gual’, an area where the pavement has been lowered to allow access to a garage. The mayor of Inca, Virgilio Moreno, has formally requested the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) to modify the state traffic legislation that prohibits owners from parking in front of guals. Moreno has met with the provincial head of Traffic in the Balearic Islands, Francisca Ramis, to convey this request and he explained that such a change would considerably increase the number of available parking spaces in the area of Raiguer which incorporates no less than 13 Mallorcan municipalities. He argued that by agreeing to this, those who own garages but have second vehicles would be able to manage their parking legally which would be to the benefit of all vehicle owners.
African dolls AN agreement has been entered into between Cáritas Mallorca and Taula per África under the title ‘Uwamahoro, the Rwandan girl’. The hope is that it will make those living in Mallorca more aware of the social history of Africa through the medium of a children’s story, translated into a fundraising gift. African and Mallorcan artisans, some of whom will be working in Mallorca for the first time, will be producing up to 5,000 cloth dolls which will be dressed in typical Rwandan clothing and will be
llowing the parade which meanders through the municipality that at the prize awards there will be plenty of music and no doubt some food and drink. It’s a good excuse to dress up and have some fun and the good news is that the advance weather forecast suggests that whilst it may be cloudy, it should stay dry until Sunday February 11, so although the temperature will most likely range from 16° in the day to 12° in the evening, everyone should stay dry.
sold under the trademark Koluté which is owned by Cáritas Mallorca. Once the items are finished and put on sale in a few months’ time, all funds will be allocated to various NGOs working in Rwanda in the field of comprehensive education of girls, teenagers and young people. To coincide with this, teaching material will be created so that youngsters in kindergartens and primary schools in Mallorca can learn more about their African cousins through story-telling workshops.
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STORIES IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION
New movie Faro WITH a relatively low estimated budget of just €2.5 million, the thriller movie with a dash of horror Faro saw a red carpet preview in Madrid on January 25. This film which was shot in part in Mallorca with the participation of the Mallorca Film Commission (MFC) saw the stars, Hugo Silva and Irene Montalà attend the screening as part of the Consell de Mallorca involvement in the FITUR tourist fair. The feature film was shot in April 2022 between Mallorca, Menorca and Catalonia and the island settings that appear in the film are Port de Soller, and various marine and coastal locations in the northern area of Mallorca.
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VIEWPOINT BILL ANDERSON SOMETHING a bit lighter this week, but nevertheless important. I have worked with thousands of International residents over the years, and speaking Spanish is a topic that comes up time and again. I have had some humorous moments in my learning Spanish journey. In my early days here, a Spanish teacher arrived at the house to do a class for my now late wife, and after courteous greeting she announced that she was a bit ‘constipada’. I wondered why she was telling me about her toilet habits, not something one expects when asking ‘¿Como estas?’ I reverted to my analogue dictionary and discovered that it meant ‘congested’, ie with a head cold. I was relieved. Sitting one day at a friend’s restaurant
Mind your Spanglish I was amused when a group of young Norwegian tourists began to wish a friend a Happy Birthday, in Spanish. But they hadn’t grasped the effect of the little eyebrow over the ‘ñ’ and were wishing their friend a happy anus. There was raucous laughter when we filled them in. A recurring theme from many of my British acquaintances is how difficult it is to learn a language when you are getting on in years. I get it. And let’s be honest, when you live in many coastal areas, people can get by day to day without a decent level of Spanish. When my now wife immigrated with her family to Australia in the 1970s, it was a different story. Immigrants were scolded for speaking their native tongue in public places. I am not
saying I would like to see that happening in Spain in 2024, but I do get frustrated when I hear people complaining that they have gone to the Guardia Civil ‘and they didn’t speak English’, or to the hospital and an appointment was all but wasted because they couldn’t communicate. If no translator is available, why on earth don’t they take someone with them to help? In many ways, Spain has done its best to accommodate foreign immigrants, but it’s not Spain’s responsibility to make sure we are understood. In fairness, I know a lot of older people who faithfully attend their Spanish classes and still say they struggle to have a conversation with a Spaniard. Learning Spanish doesn’t ha-
ppen by attending a class once a week. It happens by immersing yourself in the Spanish life and culture, by using every opportunity you have to use Spanish, by getting into situations where you either have to remain silent or use the language to be part of the conversation. Of course, this is not as comfortable as being surrounded by our fellow native English speakers, but if we don’t escape our comfort zone, it will never happen. Spaniards don’t care if we get it wrong, but they do get annoyed when we don’t try. I have had many conversations with Spaniards who confirm this. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, or too shy to show what you have learned. Get out there and just do it.
Bill Anderson’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors. bill-anderson@euroweeklynews.com
PROVERB OF THE WEEK “The dog may be wonderful prose, but only the cat is poetry.” This French proverb suggests that while dogs and cats have their own admirable qualities, cats possess a certain elusive charm and elegance that is akin to poetry.
Mallorca leads in workplace conditions
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ACCORDING to Adecco, the Balearic Islands emerge as the top region in Spain for optimal working conditions. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Balearics scored seven out of 10 on Adecco’s opportunities monitor. Catalonia secured the second-highest score with 6.6, followed by Madrid (6.4), and Cantabria and Valencia, both registering 6.2. The report assesses five key factors: salary, job security, employment and professional development prospects, the balance between personal and professional life, and labor disputes. Adecco emphasizes the notable increase in purchasing power in the Balearics, surpassing all other regions with a 3.1 per cent rise, equivalent to €674 annually. This
indicator factors in inflation when measuring the growth in average salaries. The Canary Islands closely follow, experiencing a 2.1 per cent increase (€399). However, it is essential to consider the relative nature of improvements in purchasing power, accounting for the cost of living. The report underscores a remarkable 7.7 per cent year-on-year surge in the average salary in the Balearics, reaching a new ‘historical maximum’ of €1,854 per month. In contrast, Spain as a whole suffered a 2.6 per cent decline in purchasing power in 2023, with the Basque Country (4.6 per cent), Galicia (4.8 per ccent), and Asturias (5 per cent) experiencing the most substantial declines.
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THE Hotel Federation of Mallorca, had a strong presence at the Fitur Tourism Fair in Madrid and one of its announcement was that an expected 70 per cent of Mallorca Hotels would be open by March in anticipation of a strong tourist season. With Easter Sunday falling on March 31 this year, there is always an expectation that the week after really sees hotel bookings shoot up and the Federation is confident that 90 per cent of hotels will be open in April. The Federation also indicated that it looks for Balearic Government assistance in using latest technology to identify and get rid off those unregistered owners of private tourist rental properties but has no argument against the activities of registered owners.
Flushed out
A SPANISH woman who was found guilty of a crime in the Manacor Court and was due to be sent to prison asked permission to go to the toilet and as there were no female guards she was allowed to go by herself but fell out of a fifth floor window whilst trying to escape. Having fallen on to a corrugated tin roof, she appeared quite badly injured and when emergency services arrived she was rushed to hospital for treatment and has therefore escaped prison for the time being, although once recovered there is every likelihood that she will serve her sentence.
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Dinosaurland School buses Credit: Dinosaurland Mallorca
March opening
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SCALE MODELS: One of the biggest of attractions.
LOCATED near Manacor is a permanent exhibition of some 100 dinosaurs in an area called Dinosaurland Mallorca. Most young people love the thrill of dinosaurs and this of course has been fed over the years by the various movies in the Jurassic Park series. Don’t worry about these dinosaurs as they haven’t been genetically created, so there is no chance of them going rogue! With 100 scale models, a young palaeontologist section where children can discover their own fossils, regular shows, a restaurant and even access to a cave, there is a great deal to do and they are open all year round from 10am to 5pm. Book online or on arrival and there are discounts for Mallorca residents upon presentation of identification.
IN Mallorca, much like the rest of Spain, many schoolchildren are picked up and taken home on coaches hired from local companies. Clearly the safety of all children is foremost and this is true with regards to the background of the drivers, the quality of the coaches themselves and the state in which they are kept. The DGT (Directora-
te-General for Traffic) operates a School Transport Surveillance and Control Campaign which ensures that all of the vehicles are in serviceable condition. The Palma Local Police spent several days up to January 27 undertaking checks of the school transport operating in the city and were pleased to confirm that all vehicles passed inspection.
Population growth EVERY year the National Institute of Statistics (INE) publishes populations figures for the previous year and the latest information is interesting. Looking first at Palma which continues to be one of the most expensive places to obtain property in Spain, the population on January 1, 2023 had grown for the first time since 2020 albeit by a relatively small 1.78 per cent. The two previous years it had actually fallen and the latest figures shows that the number of residents had risen to 423,350 with women slightly outnumbering men by 2 per cent. The total percentage growth for the Balearic Islands was in line with the Palma figure and the greatest growth on Mallorca was Manacor which was up 2.23 per cent to 46,395.
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Sexist tweet backfires NO matter how opposed one
may be to a political party or its members, there are certain boundaries which really shouldn’t be crossed and if they are, they simply undermine the argument. On January 21, a former candidate for the local political party MÉS per Palma posted a tweet which when translated said about Balearic President Marga Prohens “the only thing she needs to continue governing is to perform oral sex on those from Vox.” Needless to say, this did not find favour with anyone in the public eye and after receiving significant criticism and suggestions that his comments amounted to a form of sexist violence, the person responsible apologised and deleted the tweet making it clear that he was acting as a private individual not a representative of any political party. He then asked that people stop running a campaign against him although he also thanked those who had shown their support.
Vandalised signs Nautical unity Credit: MÉS for Mallorca
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DON’T ERASE: Calling for reinstatement of road signs.
Michael Cano LOCAL political party MÉS for Mallorca has spoken out about the problem of vandalism of road signs recognising that certain roads on the island were built by Republican prisoners. There are six information panels installed in Soller, Calvià, Alcudia, Manacor, Llucmajor and Campos, and more than 60 road signs placed every five kilometres along the appropriate roads across Mallorca. Although the matter will
be raised with the councils in Campos and Llucmajor and eventually other municipalities where there is council representation the party believes that the roads department that covers the whole of Mallorca has a responsibility to ensure this work is undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Law of Memory and Democratic Recognition. Anabel Riveras, speaking on behalf of MÉS explained that “the road panels are
the reflection and memory of the humiliation and torture of the vanquished of the civil war, and we cannot allow the intolerant to erase their memory with looting and vandalism.”
IN a ground-breaking collaboration, the Balearic Maritime Cluster, based in Palma de Mallorca has joined forces with counterparts in France and Italy at the Euromaritime fair in Marseille. Announced on Wednesday, January 31, this historic agreement promises to significantly boost the Western Mediterranean’s status as a premier yachting destination. This agreement heralds a new era of cooperation in yacht repair and maintenance, a field where the Western Mediterranean excels. The region, which is visited by half of the world’s yacht fleet annually, is renowned for carrying out 75 per cent
of yacht refits between these three countries. Key initiatives include creating professional training courses enriched with shared experiences and collectively promoting the West Med. Additionally, there will be joint participation in European projects and a shared effort in influencing regulatory standards. The partnership also plans a crew reception guide and a shared database to bolster inter-country company collaborations. For Mallorca, this signifies not just a strengthened local maritime sector but also enhanced international ties and recognition.
Royal audience STILL in Madrid after Fitur, the mayor of Palma, Jaime Martínez Llabrés, was invited for a meeting with His Majesty King Felipe VI on the morning of January 30. He was part of a delegation of the Governing Board of the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP), on the occasion of its 40th anniversary. During the meeting, the mayor and the rest of the members of the FEMP explai-
ned the usual daily work schedules of local administrations to the King. They also took the opportunity on behalf of their 7,410 council and province members to lobby for adequate funding in order to ensure that residents (and they represent 95 per cent of the country) as well as tourists are able to expect the best possible service from council members.
Confusion reigns THERE continues to be considerable confusion about the decision made by five
Vox deputies in the Balearic Government to expel the president of the Parliament,
Luxurious hotels MALLORCA’S luxury tourism sector is on the rise, with the Mallorca Hotel Federation reporting a total of 65 five-star hotels. This year, that number is set to increase, thanks to significant investments from world-renowned hotel brands like Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental. The much-awaited Four Seasons Resort at Formentor is due to open this summer, closely followed by the launch of the Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra Resort later in the year. Adding to this luxury line-up is the Hotel Valldemossa, opening on February 29. Acquired by IT Unique Spaces Group, known for their five-star boutique hotels in Palma and Pollensa, this hotel has been completely refurbished. Its origins trace back to the 19th century as part of the historic Royal Charterhouse Palace of Valldemossa. Guests will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the Sierra Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ensuring a stay that’s as rich in history as it is in luxury.
Gabriel Le Senne, and the president of the party in the Islands, Patricia de las Heras. They argue that Gabriel Le Senne should resign his position as he is no longer a member of the party, but the Vox national board is taking disciplinary action against the five who decided on the expulsion. In the meantime, it must be remembered that the Marga Prohens Partido Popular Government does not have an overall majority and relies on vox not voting against her proposed Bills. With such division within Vox, she is probably safe, but must worry about the outcome and whether the party could turn against the PP, possibly triggering another election.
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MAKE SAVINGS: Avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials.
can make a big difference. The choice of supermarket can impact your budget substantially. The price difference for the same items can vary greatly among stores. Avoid shopping on an empty stomach to resist impulse buys, especially unhealthy snacks. Always compare the cost per kilo or unit, rather than just the total price. This helps in identifying truly cost-effective options. If you have ample storage, take advantage of bulk buying and special offers
like ‘buy one get one half price’ or ‘three for the price of two’ on items you regularly use. Finally, make the most of loyalty programmes offered by supermarkets such as Carrefour, Dia, Consum, or Alcampo for additional discounts and savings. Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce your supermarket spending, leading to substantial savings over time. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.
Spain’s longest wall WALLED cities are not uncommon in Spain, however, one of its most impressive and officially the longest in the country is tucked away near the border with Portugal. Have you ever wondered about Spain’s longest wall? The answer lies not in famous sites like the walls of Lugo or Avila, but in the less well-known location of Badajoz, Extremadura. This city, steeped in a history of border clashes with Portugal, hosts the continent’s most extensive fortification. Constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries, Badajoz’s wall system epitomises an era marked by military innovation. Influenced by the designs of French military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre, Marquis of Vauban, these fortifications are a continuation of earlier defensive structures. The initial walls, dating back to the ninth and 11th centuries, were erected by prominent Muslim leaders, including Ibn Marwan, Abd Allah Ibn Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Rahman, and Abdullah Ibn el-Aftas. The 17th century brought renewed focus on Badajoz’s defences, following Portugal’s independence in 1640. The city’s strategic position demanded an enhanced defensive system, leading to the construction of the ‘Baluarted Wall’. Visitors to Badajoz can explore nume-
Credit: Michael Newman/Creative Commons Attribution 3.0
The city wall of Alcazaba, Badajoz.
rous bastions and gates along the wall. Among them, the 16th-century Puerta de Merida and the 1680 Trinity Gate showcase classicist designs and royal emblems. Notable too are the 16th-century Puerta del Pilar and the 1460 Puerta de las Palmas, each displaying distinctive architectural elements. The wall’s bastions, such as San Pedro, Santa Maria, and San Vicente, highlight strategic points around the city. The wall’s length and complexity, spanning approximately five kilometres, make it a remarkable and historically significant structure, second only to the wall of Pamplona in terms of perimeter.
NATIONAL SERVICE was mandatory in Britain from 1947 until 1963, and during that time more than two million men were conscripted into the British Army, Royal Navy or the Royal Air Force. National service is the mandatory legal obligation to serve in the country’s military. This meant that all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 30 were called up during this time. In Spain, compulsory military service, colloquially known as ‘la mili’ in Spanish, began in the late 18th and 19th centuries and officially ended in December 2001. During the last two decades, military conscription has been abandoned by some European countries in an attempt to shift towards volunteer armies and increase professionalism and specialised training in
Credit: Shutterstock/248200348
WITH the continual rise in grocery prices, navigating the supermarket without overspending is a challenge. Here are just a few tips on how to optimise your food expenses effectively. An obvious one, but creating a family shopping list is crucial. By collectively deciding on necessary items, you can avoid impulse buys and stick to essentials. It’s vital to follow this list strictly, resisting the lure of unnecessary purchases. Opting for store brands, often referred to as ‘white label’ products, can cut your grocery bill significantly. These products offer good quality at lower prices, with the potential of saving you around 35 to 45 per cent annually. This doesn’t mean forgoing all premium brands, rather, it’s about identifying where brand choice truly matters. In cases where brand isn’t a key factor, switching to more affordable store brands
Credit: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com
Shop smart spend less Mandatory service
NATIONAL SERVICE: British soldiers in France 1918.
the defence forces. However, in 2024, National Service or ‘military conscription’ seems to be experiencing a general comeback in Europe. The country of Latvia passed a law in April 2023 calling for the mandatory reintroduction of military conscription after it was abolished in 2007. An issue that is currently apparent is the overall reduction of the sizes of European armies, which is crucial, especially amid the threat of Russia, which has undoubtedly created a
new-found sense of anxiety for the ever present possibility of war. In France, a law was passed by parliament in 2018 that would require some type of military services for all genders beginning in 2024. Prime Minister Macron stated that he “hoped it would reinvigorate a sense of French civic duty.” In the new generation of social media and selfies, would a responsibility to one’s country for the young adults of 2024 serve as a form of character building?
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PIEDEMONT: One of Italy’s principal wine-growing areas.
Fewer Italians
Linda Hall ITALY is drinking less wine. Analysis by the Unione Italiana Vini (Uiv)-Ismea Observatory based on figures from data specialist Nielsen found that the country’s supermarkets, stores and distributors sold just under one billion bottles of wine in 2023. This was 3.1 per cent less than in 2022, with an 8 per cent dip over the five years between 2018 and 2023. According to the Observatory, 2023 was “a complicated year” owing to changes in post-pandemic consumption habits and generalised price rises. Red wines took the hardest hit, with a 15 per cent slump over the past five years although 19 per cent more people bought sparkling wines and Prosecco in 2023 than they did in 2019, with sales of 139 million bottles. Rose enjoyed a 17 per cent increase
over this same period. But although the Italians might be drinking less wine than previously, the Observatory also found that they were becoming more discerning. Overall sales of wine with DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label fell by just two per cent while white wine saw a 3 per cent increase since pre-pandemic 2019. The Observatory also found that people buying online ordered more DOP and TGI (Typical Geographical Indication) wines which accounted for 75 per cent of the total purchases of non-sparkling wines. Online purchases have increased threefold since 2019, the Observatory noted, although internet orders had declined by 21 per cent over the past two years, compared with the high of 2021.
Flight bomb scare
THE National Court has recently delivered a verdict in a case involving a young British man’s ‘joke’ bomb hoax, while he was about to board a flight to Menorca. On July 3, 2022, the accused, a 19-year-old man of Indian origin holding a British passport, sent a Snapchat message to a private group of friends while preparing to board a flight from London to Menorca. The message, which included a photo of himself and a text stating, ‘On the way to fly the plane (I am a member of the Taliban)’, was picked up by British security. The plane, flying over French airspace at the time, was then escorted by a Eurofighter from the Spanish air force to its destination in Menorca. Upon landing, the plane and its passengers
Credit: Juan Ci/Shutterstock.com
NOT GUILTY: The court decided it was meant as a joke.
underwent isolation and a thorough check, which confirmed the absence of any explosives or indications of a genuine threat. In his nine-page ruling, Judge Jose Manuel Fernandez-Prieto of the Central Criminal Court analysed the facts and the legal implications. He concluded that the accused’s actions did not constitute a crime. The judge noted that the message was intended as a private joke among friends,
with no evidence of any intention to provoke the mobilisation of security forces. The court remained uncertain about how British security services intercepted the private message, as this was not substantiated during the trial. This case highlights the delicate balance between personal jokes and public security, raising questions about privacy and the unforeseen impact of seemingly harmless actions.
ADVERTISING FEATURE II euroweeklynews.com
1 - 7 February 2024
EWN
9
Are you fulfilling your residency obligations? Any UK resident who would like to spend more than 90 days in one or more of the Schengen zone states are confronted by a time-consuming, paper-heavy visa process.
Court ruling has impacted the situation. It found in favour of an Iranian woman who lost her temporary residence and work permit after being for more than six months.
Whether right or wrong, this perhaps explains why many UK nationals with second homes took the opportunity to apply for a residency permit prior to the UK leaving the EU, even if they had no intention of spending 183 days in Spain – a requirement for its successful renewal, and, incidentally, the point at which you become a tax resident.
After finding a contradiction with Article 19 of Spain’s constitution espousing ‘freedom of movement’ when talking about temporary residence permits, the Court nullified Regulation 162.2 of Spain’s immigration law which restricts absences to no more than 182 days a year. It however confirmed the government can re-introduce it as an organic law in the future.
Swapping a pre-existing residency card for one stating it was issued under the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement, thus preserving pre-Brexit rights, was more of an exchange than a review of the individual’s actual qualification for the residency permit in the first place. But many of these cards fall due for renewal or upgrade to permanent residency cards from mid-
By Cathal Rochford, Partner, Blevins Franks
2025, and many UK nationals might feel concerned about what awaits them. The EU is going through a massive digital immigration upgrade, with the “Entry and Exit Scheme” (EES) expected to come online later this year. This will quickly establish how many days a Briton spends in Spain, though individuals holding residency permits are exempt. Spain court ruling and ramifications A recent Spanish Supreme
This now means each situation will be reviewed on its own merits, with no real security over what scenario will qualify. Residence decisions may be based more on assessing if Spain is the main home, rather than the number of days. The threat of being denied a permit renewal therefore remains.
The Spanish tax authorities are likely to be interested in reviewing the days in and out of Spain and trying to establish if your “centre of economic interests” or “centre of vital interests” (family base) is in Spain – all of which could make you liable to Spanish taxation on worldwide income and wealth. On renewal at five years, you are likely to be denied permanent residence as there is an extra stipulation of no more than 10 months absence over the five years of temporary residence. The risks of fulfilling residence criteria Applying for or renewing a residency permit with no intention of becoming legally resident is potentially fraudulent. It may well result in a large fine, removal of the permit, country ban for several years and rejection of any future visa and residency applications.
The ongoing discussions between UK and Spanish government departments may eventually lead to the annual 180-day allowance becoming flexible across the year, rather than the current maximum of 90 days at a time. This may be sufficient for some people, though this change may need to be agreed at EU level. Any Briton falling foul of a state’s immigration authorities may find they have lost the thing they value the most – the ability to spend time at their villa for several years to come. If any of this concerns you, take steps to rectify your situation before it is too late. Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice. Keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you on the Blevins Franks news page at www. blevinsfranks.com.
10 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024
IRELAND Toy story AN investigation into broadcaster RTE’s Toy Show The Musical found there was no record that the RTE Board ever gave its approval for the musical at Dublin’s Convention Centre in December 2022. Expert advice was allegedly ignored and the project accumulated €2.2 million in losses after a shortfall in ticket sales.
Free trees TRINITY COLLEGE, Dublin, gave away more than 100 birch seedlings that sprang up during 2023’s No Mow May initiative to provide wildflowers for pollinators. As the seedlings grew, the lawns were left unmown until the following September, after which they were potted and cared for by the university’s gardeners.
SWEDEN
euroweeklynews.com II EUROPEAN PRESS
EUROPRESS NORWAY Here to stay KING HARALD once more stressed that unlike Queen Margarethe of Denmark, he had no plans to abdicate in favour of his son and heir, Prince Haakon. King Harald, who will be 87 on February 21 said that he swore an oath to parliament when he came to the throne 33 years ago “and it is for life,” he added. KING HARALD: Norway’s king has no intention of abdicating.
ITALY
GERMANY Joint plan HEALTH minister Karl Lauterbach expects the Bundestag national parliament to pass the Cannabis Act legalising marihuana in February. The new legislation could come into force by April, despite opposition from some regions, including Bavaria, and even members of Lauterbach’s own Social Democrats party.
Keep clear
Photo credit: CC/Samediggi-Sametinget
FRANCE
ANTI-ABORTION activists could soon face fines of up to €5,000 for demonstrating or approaching the public within a 100-metre radius of family planning centres or clinics where terminations are performed. Once a draft law goes through, they are also prevented from displaying intimidating posters or handing out leaflets.
DENMARK
Work permits
Not so hot
All the same
Old words
SWEDEN’S Migration Agency issued 102,139 new resident permits in 2023, a 28 per cent reduction on the 143,179 granted in 2022. These included 36,000 work permits which, again, were down on the previous year’s 41,396, with the majority issued to berry pickers, IT architects, system developers and test leaders.
THE famous calendar featuring ‘hot’ young priests on sale in Rome’s newspaper kiosks and souvenir shops is an annual bestseller, although the photographer responsible for the photos admitted that few are actually priests. “But the intention was to give a profile to priests as a symbol of Rome,” he told Il Post newspaper.
THE French government intends to “erase inequality and create conditions for respect” by introducing uniforms in all state school pupils, beginning with a trial period for 100 chosen centres. According to the national media, the authorities have settled on a white or grey polo shirt, a blue jersey and grey trousers.
RUNES were the alphabet of Denmark’s earliest written language and archaeologists believe they have located the oldest inscription yet discovered in Odense on the island of Funen. Etched 2,000 years ago on an eight-centimetre knife found in a grave there, the five characters spell out ‘hirila’, meaning ‘little sword’.
Hack attack
Foraging mishap
Breathe easy
Careful move
ALONG with other public authorities, the Swedish parliament was affected by a ransomware hit on IT supplier Tietoevry’s data centre by the Russian group Akira between January 20 and 21. This involved Primula, a human resources system that is used by 120 public bodies including the parliament offices.
BRITON Steven Harper (38), who had planned to cycle from Dundee to India, plummeted to his death from a cliff in Ventimiglia, presumably on becoming delirious after eating foraged wild mushrooms. Helicoptered to hospital after he was seen falling, the father of two died of injuries caused by the fall.
ANALYSES carried out for the regional transport system found ‘high particle pollution’ at the Belleville, Oberkampf and Jaures metro stations in Paris. Environmentalists had already attributed the high air pollution in some parts of the metro system to the trains’ mechanical brakes applied each time they came to a stop.
DENMARK will grant more work permits for immigrants who work in the social care sector, after MPs and the government reached agreement on increasing the country’s Positive List scheme for ‘desired professions’. This will now enable 1,000 foreign applicants to enter the country to work in the care sector.
BELGIUM
THE NETHERLANDS
FINLAND
PORTUGAL
Pay up
Eco-friendly
Less aid
Name sakes
BELGIUM’S expatriate tax scheme, introduced in 1983 for residents who were hired from abroad, came to an end in January 2024. Only residents who earn more than an annual €75,000 gross or are engaged in scientific, industrial, technological or academic research are now eligible for the scheme.
A SURVEY by two labour economists found that an increasing number of residents would prefer to work for a climate-conscious company rather than a firm without sustainability goals. Some said that they would be willing to take a ‘considerable’ cut in their wages in order to work for a sustainable employer.
FINLAND’S Foreign Trade and Development ministry confirmed that the government is cutting foreign aid, multilateral co-operation, humanitarian assistance, development loans and investments by more than a billion euros. This includes discontinuing the Afghanistan, Kenya, Mozambique and Myanmar programmes.
PORTUGAL’S Statistics Institute (INE) revealed that the country’s four most-encountered names were Maria for females and Francisco, Tiago and Duarte (a variation on Eduardo) for males. Most common surnames were found to be Silva, Nunes, Santos and Ferreira, the same source announced.
Extra mile FOOD packaging in Flanders will include information about animal production standards, identifying products from companies that follow ethical procedures when raising animals. “The public can now see which producers go the extra mile for animal welfare and which do not,” Flanders’ Animal Welfare ministry said.
Not wanted A TOTAL of 1,040 British residents had to leave the Schengen area as well as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland in 2023. The Netherlands was responsible for 275 expulsions, more than any other nation, after Brits overstayed, had residence and work permits rejected or, in some cases, committed serious crimes.
Northern lights THE forecasting service introduced 20 years ago to inform the public when they are most likely to see the aurora borealis uses fluctuations in the Earth’s magnetic field to predict the chances of aurora appearances. This has now has been ‘significantly upgraded’ to enhance accuracy, Finland’s meteorological service said.
Fado feature THE Poor Things film soundtrack composed by British pop musician Jerskin Fendrix has been nominated for Best Original Score in the upcoming Oscars to be held next month. This includes a Fado performed by Carminho who has a role in the film, singing and playing the guitar in an imaginary Lisbon.
FINANCE BUSINESS EXTRA Fizz sells
CHAPEL DOWN, which produces English sparkling wine in Kent, announced sales of £15 million (€17.5 million) in 2023, a 14 per cent increase as the company nabbed part of Champagne’s market share. Turnover had also been assisted by a 12 per cent increase in prices, chief executive Andrew Carter said.
Car sales
THE Spanish government received €724 million from vehicle registration tax in 2023. This was more than at any time since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, and also the highest figure since the record sum of €1.08 billion charged during the pre-crisis boom year of 2008, tax authority Hacienda’s record showed.
Boohoo move
AFTER occupying the post for two years, Boohoo’s chief financial officer Shaun McCabe resigned ‘with immediate effect’ by mutual agreement on January 23. His role in the company, which owns Karen Millen, PrettyLittleThing and Dorothy Perkins. will be taken over by former Betfair and Zoopla executive Stephen Morana.
Long story short
SPAIN’S National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) is examining documents provided by pharmaceuticals company Grifols, accused of misrepresenting its debts and financial position by short sellers Gotham City Research.
Milk run
WINCANTON, a haulage company founded in 1925 to transport milk, agreed a £765 million (€894.4 million) takeover by a subsidiary of CMA CGA, the French shipping and logistics company. This is owned by billionaire Rodolphe Saade and his family, whose combined wealth is estimated at $9.8 billion (€9.05 billion).
12
euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024
STAT OF WEEK
€30.3 billion
was paid out in dividends to shareholders in companies quoted on Spain’s Ibex 35 index in 2023, the highest figure since 2019 and 16.6 per cent up on 2022.
Never on Saturday
Linda Hall ROYAL MAIL could save £650 million (€760.8 million) annually by delivering letters three days each week. Eliminating now-obligatory Saturday deliveries and distributing letters five times a week would save between £100 million (€117.1 million) and £200 million (€234.2 million), Ofcom, the UK’s Communications regulator, said. Future changes could include first and second-class deliveries taking up to three days or longer, with a next-day service for urgent letters. Calculating that the universal service obligation
Photo credit: CC/kitmasterbloke
ROYAL MAIL: Saturday deliveries could be phased out.
(USO) costs Royal Mail between £325 million (€380.4 million) and £675 million (€790.1 million), Ofcom also suggested maintaining Saturday deliveries while supporting the company with a state subsidy or a levy on other industry operators.
CRYPTOCURRENCY is joining forces with sport through crypto fan tokens. These allow football fans to invest in their club while giving them a say in management decisions as well as access to some exclusives. But do they make a profit on their investment? Crypto tax experts CoinLedger analysed the actions of fan tokens in 2023. Using this data they calculated how much a $100 (€91.80) fan token investment made on January 1, 2023 would be worth 12 months later. “For context, Bitcoin had a 155.18
Ofcom’s chief executive Dame Melanie Dawes stressed that postal workers were “critical” to Britain’s communities. “But we’re sending half as many letters as we did in 2011 and receiving many more parcels,” she said.
Dawes added that the USO, which has not changed since then, was out of date and would become financially and operationally unsustainable unless action was taken. An Ofcom survey found that reliable letter deliveries was important for 88 per cent of respondents while Saturday deliveries were still important for 58 per cent, compared with 63 per cent in 2020. Meanwhile, Postal Affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake told a Radio Times interviewer that Britain’s PM, Rishi Sunak was “very clear” that a six-day delivery was important for people and businesses.
Highs and lows Photo credit: CC/Beric Dondarrion
BOLOGNA FC: Italian team gave best return on fan tokens.
per cent increase in 2023 so $100 invested in Bitcoin on January 1, 2023, was worth $255.17 (€234.23) on January 1, 2024,” CoinLedger explained.
Football apart, the experts found that Bologna FC gave the best return. Bologna is one of Italy’s few sides with fan tokens, which in January 2023 cost $0.24 (€0.22) each. A $100 outlay would now be worth $273.48 (€251.10) an increase of 173.48 per cent while outperforming Bitcoin by 18.3 per cent in 2023. Barcelona FC, however, languished three from the bottom on CoinLedger’s list, as its $3.49 (€3.20) fan tokens fell to $2.29 (€2.10), with the initial $100 now worth (€60.18).
Hypocritical Thriving regions Vegan rescue
TATA, confirmed on January 19 that it would close Port Talbot’s two blast furnaces, resulting in 2,800 job losses. Citing the need to reduce carbon emissions, the steelworks’ India-based owners said the furnaces would be replaced with an electric arc furnace, prompting accusations of “gross hypocrisy” from the unions. According to reports in the Guardian, they said this environmental excuse was contradicted by Tata’s plans for a giant blast furnace at its Kalinganagar industrial centre in eastern India. The workers and the unions also criticised the UK government, which they said should have offered more financial incentives to persuade Tata to support domestic steel production.
SPAIN’S northern regions are expected to drive the increase in 2024’s gross domestic product (GDP). “Goods manufacturing will continue to be the economy’s principal energiser,” BBVA Research’s latest Regional Analysis predicted, with Cantabria and Navarra leading the country’s growth rate. A slowdown in exports, coupled with still-high energy prices and increased interest rates had combined to produce a generalised cutback in regional forecasts, BBVA Research said. The Basque Region, Aragon, Galicia, Castilla y Leo, Cantabria and Navarra economies were expected to grow by just over 2 per cent in 2024 compared with Spain’s national average of 1.5 per cent, three-10ths less than last autumn’s estimates. BBVA Research foresaw more economic brio in 2025 with growth averaging 2.5 per cent thanks to increased domestic and European demand, as well as tourism.
HEATHER MILLS has saved her VBites company from collapse. A £1 million (€1.17 million) deal brought the business out of administration after escalating overheads and competition from cheaper vegan rivals had left Mills with losses of £3.1 million (€3.6 million). She complained at the time that she received only three days’ notice of the administration notice. Although the rescue covers Mills’ assets and factories in County Durham and Northamptonshire, 64 VBites employees were made redundant, although Beatle Paul McCartney’s ex-wife has pledged to reinstate them.
Big names ONE of the newly-created Hyperion Fund FCR’s partners has been revealed as Pablo Casado, president of the Partido Popular party until April 2022. The venture capital fund will focus on aerospace, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and dual-use defence items, excluding arms and lethal material, which also have civilian applications. “This growth equity fund aims to raise €150 million and invest in emerging European technological companies, paying particular attention to small and medium Spanish companies while supporting their growth,” Hyperion said. Ricardo Gomez-Acebo Botin, nephew of Santander chair Ana Botin, was named as another of the fund’s five partners.
Offer almost accepted TELEFONICA’S holding in its Germany subsidiary increased from 71.81 per cent to 93.10 per cent. The €1.48 billion cash operation was carried out by Telefonica’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Telefonica Local Services. The offer announced in November 2023 was accepted by 7.86 per cent of Telefónica Deutschland’s shareholders although Telefonica had also acquired approximately 13.43 per cent of the German subsidiary’s share capital and voting rights. This included the settlement of financial instruments that gave the Spanish multinational the right to acquire approximately 1.32 per cent of Telefonica Deutschland’s share capital.
Paper woes BRITAIN’s government should intensify the investigation into the Telegraph takeover, former Health minister Neil O’Brien said. RedBird IMI, the Abu Dhabi-backed investment fund mainly financed by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s vice-president and Manchester City FC owner, is settling the Telegraph owners’ £1.6 billion debt with Lloyds Bank. Once the operation was completed, RedBird maintained it would convert the loan to take possession of the publication and it could still decide its ownership even if the bid were blocked.
14 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024
euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE
LONDON - FTSE 100
Closing Prices 29 January
Company
Price(p)
Change(p)
% Chg.
Net
3I Group.....................................2.432,00.............+21,00........... +0,87%...........1,42M Admiral Group.............................2.503,0............... -14,0.............-0,56%........... 17,14K Airtel Africa................................. 123,50................ -1,90.............-1,51%........... 98,50K Anglo American...........................1.875,8............... -12,4.............-0,66%.......... 173,70K Antofagasta................................1.697,00.............. -3,00.............-0,18%........... 32,51K Ashtead Group............................5.234,0............... -10,0.............-0,19%........... 25,13K Associated British Foods.............2.382,4................ -1,6..............-0,07%........... 30,22K AstraZeneca...............................10.602,0..............+56,0............ +0,53%.......... 43,71K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 739,60................ -2,20.............-0,30%.......... 146,53K Aviva........................................... 436,99................ -0,61.............-0,14%.......... 128,51K B&M European Value Retail SA... 537,80................ -0,40.............-0,07%........... 95,95K BAE Systems..............................1.191,50.............+23,50........... +2,01%......... 278,32K Barclays...................................... 149,74................+0,50............ +0,34%...........1,69M Barratt Developments................. 537,60................ -5,40.............-0,99%.......... 105,10K Beazley........................................ 543,50................ -1,50.............-0,28%........... 38,83K Berkeley......................................4.813,0............... -52,0.............-1,07%............ 4,44K BP............................................... 469,70................+8,00............ +1,73%...........2,79M British American Tobacco...........2.373,0...............+40,0............ +1,72%......... 375,83K BT Group.................................... 115,20................ -1,00.............-0,86%.......... 756,32K Bunzl...........................................3.177,0................ -7,0..............-0,22%........... 18,03K Burberry Group...........................1.334,5................ -7,0..............-0,52%........... 57,32K Centrica....................................... 137,22................ -0,43.............-0,31%.......... 725,24K Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.345,0................+3,0............. +0,13%.......... 13,72K Compass....................................2.161,00.............+14,00........... +0,65%.......... 93,92K ConvaTec Group......................... 238,60................ -1,80.............-0,75%........... 57,88K Croda Intl....................................4.697,0............... -59,0.............-1,24%........... 13,04K DCC.............................................5.716,0............... -44,0.............-0,76%............ 4,84K Diageo.........................................2.865,0...............+16,0............ +0,56%......... 241,32K Diploma.....................................3.306,00............. -28,00............-0,84%........... 10,34K DS Smith.................................... 288,10................ -3,20.............-1,10%.......... 135,49K Endeavour Mining......................1.434,00..............+8,00............ +0,56%.......... 14,81K Entain.......................................... 956,80............... -10,40............-1,08%........... 82,07K Experian......................................3.266,0................+8,0............. +0,25%.......... 47,27K F&C Invest.................................. 966,00................ -1,00.............-0,10%........... 55,54K Flutter Entertainment..................16.265,0.............. -60,0.............-0,37%............ 9,21K Frasers........................................ 808,50................+2,50............ +0,31%.......... 68,77K Fresnillo...................................... 510,00...............+11,20........... +2,25%.......... 50,34K Glencore...................................... 419,90................ -2,80.............-0,66%.......... 786,58K GSK plc......................................1.550,60.............+13,60........... +0,89%......... 162,34K HALEON...................................... 320,60................+2,80............ +0,88%......... 755,20K Halma..........................................2.163,0............... -32,0.............-1,46%........... 23,58K Hikma Pharma...........................1.904,00..............+4,00............ +0,21%........... 6,67K Howden Joinery.......................... 808,00................ -4,60.............-0,57%........... 18,38K HSBC.......................................... 621,23................+4,33............ +0,70%...........1,26M IAG.............................................. 151,85................ -2,20.............-1,43%............1,01M IMI PLC......................................1.679,00..............+9,00............ +0,54%.......... 32,97K Imperial Brands..........................1.947,32.............+13,32........... +0,69%......... 137,85K Informa....................................... 774,00................+2,60............ +0,34%.......... 70,09K InterContinental..........................7.484,0................+2,0............. +0,03%.......... 15,14K
Company
Price(p)
Change(p)
% Chg.
Net
Intermediate Capital...................1.789,00............. -26,00............-1,43%........... 61,69K Intertek........................................4.506,0...............+48,0............ +1,08%.......... 11,35K J Sainsbury................................. 274,30................ -1,70.............-0,62%.......... 170,23K JD Sports Fashion....................... 117,60................ -0,20.............-0,17%.......... 277,22K Kingfisher.................................... 220,50................ -4,60.............-2,04%.......... 275,78K Land Securities........................... 659,80................ -0,60.............-0,09%........... 44,89K Legal & General.......................... 254,74................ -0,76.............-0,30%.......... 654,80K Lloyds Banking............................ 42,14.................+0,04............ +0,10%...........5,92M London Stock Exchange..............9.044,0............... -26,0.............-0,29%........... 48,73K M&G........................................... 226,50................ -0,30.............-0,13%.......... 202,82K Marks & Spencer........................ 255,86................ -0,04.............-0,02%.......... 273,54K Melrose Industries...................... 585,48................+4,08............ +0,70%......... 123,98K Mondi.........................................1.459,00............. -32,55............-2,18%........... 55,40K National Grid..............................1.056,00.............+12,50........... +1,20%......... 308,72K NatWest Group........................... 223,80................ -0,20.............-0,09%............1,46M Next............................................8.488,0............... -20,0.............-0,23%............ 2,79K Ocado.......................................... 563,39............... -12,41............-2,16%........... 80,41K Pearson....................................... 973,20................+7,20............ +0,74%.......... 50,52K Pershing Square........................3.700,00.............+22,00........... +0,60%.......... 14,80K Phoenix....................................... 518,56................ -3,24.............-0,62%.......... 110,33K Prudential.................................... 846,00............... -12,20............-1,42%.......... 281,97K Reckitt Benckiser........................5.648,0............... -10,0.............-0,18%........... 42,49K Relx............................................3.289,00.............+13,00........... +0,40%......... 137,33K Rentokil....................................... 401,20................ -2,80.............-0,69%.......... 389,32K Rightmove.................................. 558,60................ -4,80.............-0,85%........... 39,61K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.565,0...............+16,0............ +0,29%.......... 97,73K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 303,70................ -1,70.............-0,56%............1,08M RS PLC....................................... 765,00................ -2,40.............-0,31%........... 24,19K Sage...........................................1.172,75.............. -5,75.............-0,49%.......... 136,32K Schroders.................................... 407,3................. -17,8.............-4,19%.......... 248,22K Scottish Mortgage....................... 777,00................ -4,40.............-0,56%.......... 121,23K Segro.......................................... 860,60................ -4,60.............-0,53%........... 58,91K Severn Trent...............................2.553,0................ -5,0..............-0,20%............ 9,42K Shell............................................2.469,0...............+39,5............ +1,63%......... 585,72K Smith & Nephew........................1.093,55............. -11,45............-1,04%........... 55,73K Smiths Group.............................1.651,00.............. -5,50.............-0,33%........... 10,64K Smurfit Kappa.............................3.054,0............... -46,0.............-1,48%........... 48,55K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........9.916,0............... -54,0.............-0,54%............ 3,82K SSE............................................1.677,50............. -20,50............-1,21%.......... 323,99K St. James’s Place........................ 659,00............... -11,80............-1,76%........... 73,64K Standard Chartered..................... 609,00................+3,00............ +0,49%......... 132,07K Taylor Wimpey............................ 145,45................ -0,85.............-0,58%.......... 352,09K Tesco.......................................... 294,60................+1,10............ +0,38%......... 722,18K Unilever.......................................3.828,5................+5,0............. +0,13%......... 154,90K Unite..........................................1.002,00.............. -7,00.............-0,69%........... 17,83K United Utilities............................1.056,00.............. -1,50.............-0,14%........... 36,68K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 70,550............... -0,210............-0,30%............3,78M Weir Group................................1.812,82.............. -4,18.............-0,23%.......... 194,05K Whitbread...................................3.630,0............... -16,0.............-0,44%........... 15,78K WPP............................................ 770,00................+1,40............ +0,18%......... 101,04K
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1.17273
Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0836 Japan yen (JPY)...................................160.27 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9329 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4536 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.278 currenciesdirect.com/mallorca • Tel: +34 687 906 226 THE ABOVE TABLE USES THE CURRENT INTERBANK EXCHANGE RATES, WHICH AREN’T REPRESENTATIVE OF THE RATE WE OFFER
DOW JONES
Closing Prices 29 January
Company
Price(p)
Change(p)
% Chg.
Net
3M............................................... 96,00.................+0,02............ +0,02%...........3,63M American Express....................... 201,41...............+13,34........... +7,09%..........12,22M Amgen........................................ 311,77................+1,51............ +0,49%...........1,96M Apple........................................... 192,42................ -1,75.............-0,90%...........41,89M Boeing......................................... 205,50................+3,62............ +1,79%...........9,80M Caterpillar.................................... 299,41................ -1,36.............-0,45%............2,36M Chevron...................................... 149,15................+0,58............ +0,39%...........7,50M Cisco............................................ 52,14................. -0,19.............-0,36%...........12,58M Coca-Cola..................................... 59,37.................+0,21............ +0,36%..........12,16M Dow............................................. 54,06................. -0,88.............-1,60%............5,11M Goldman Sachs........................... 377,88................ -4,82.............-1,26%............3,38M Home Depot................................ 355,30................+4,33............ +1,23%...........2,95M Honeywell................................... 201,80................ -0,76.............-0,38%............1,74M IBM............................................. 187,36................ -3,07.............-1,61%............9,32M Intel.............................................. 43,65................. -5,90............-11,91%.........126,74M J&J............................................. 159,51................ -0,05.............-0,03%............4,35M JPMorgan................................... 172,28................ -0,66.............-0,38%............7,14M McDonald’s................................. 292,30................ -4,91.............-1,65%............3,98M Merck&Co................................... 120,81................+0,68............ +0,57%...........7,37M Microsoft.................................... 403,93................ -0,94.............-0,23%...........16,33M Nike............................................. 102,73................+1,96............ +1,95%...........8,63M Procter&Gamble......................... 156,15................+0,53............ +0,34%...........6,85M Salesforce Inc............................. 279,96................+0,93............ +0,33%...........4,73M The Travelers.............................. 211,45................ -0,07.............-0,03%.......... 921,82K UnitedHealth............................... 503,13................+9,73............ +1,97%...........6,10M Verizon......................................... 42,40.................+0,11............ +0,25%..........19,33M Visa A.......................................... 267,90................ -4,71.............-1,73%............8,36M Walgreens Boots.......................... 22,85................. -0,26.............-1,13%...........10,06M Walmart...................................... 164,29................+1,45............ +0,89%...........3,68M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 29 January
Company
Change Net / %
Volume
Most Advanced AppFolio, Inc....................................................+28.26%.........................1.859M Galaxy Digital Holdings Ltd..............................+17.10%........................ 409,729 Lonza Group AG...............................................+14.04%........................ 788,176 Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corporation........+13.58%..........................2.37M Rémy Cointreau SA..........................................+13.37%........................ 163,990 Fanuc Corporation............................................+10.20%......................... 15,083 Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc..........................+9.71%.........................87.559M SGS SA.............................................................+9.02%.......................... 53,559 Freedom Holding Corp......................................+8.40%......................... 409,501 Glacier Bancorp, Inc..........................................+8.35%..........................1.595M M - Million Dollars
Most Declined Hub Group, Inc................................................ -50.48%........................ 266,180 WuXi Biologics (Cayman) Inc.......................... -16.20%........................ 559,124 Intel Corporation.............................................. -11.91%.......................127.665M ZKH Group Limited........................................... -9.93%.......................... 66,872 Lenovo Group Limited...................................... -8.53%.......................... 74,559 Chart Industries, Inc......................................... -7.54%..........................1.807M Fair Isaac Corporation....................................... -6.85%......................... 407,235 KLA Corporation............................................... -6.60%..........................2.195M Lattice Semiconductor Corporation.................. -6.52%..........................4.218M RWE Aktiengesellschaft.................................... -5.86%......................... 129,769 CG Oncology, Inc.............................................. -5.76%..........................1.719M M - Million Dollars
FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com ASK THE EXPERT PETER LOVEDAY Peter Loveday Contact me at euroweekly@currenciesdirect.com Contact me at
Euro EUR/GBP: Down from £0.86 to £0.85 EUR/USD: Down from $1.10 to $1.08 The euro got off to a poor start in 2024 as some disappointing data raised concerns over the Eurozone’s economic trajectory. The euro’s negative correlation with the US dollar also acted as a headwind for the single currency in recent weeks, amid a revival in demand for the safe-haven ‘greenback’. Hawkish commentary from the European Central Bank (ECB) helped to temper the downside in EUR exchange rates throughout the month, as officials continued to push back against interest rate cut expectations. However, the euro still ticked lower again after the ECB’s first interest rate decision of the year, as President Christine Lagarde wasn’t perhaps as forceful in dispelling rate cut bets as EUR
1 - 7 February 2024
EWN 15
CURRENCY OUTLOOK: EURO TUMBLES ON LACKLUSTRE DATA, US DOLLAR BOLSTERED BY GLOOMY MOOD investors had hoped. Looking ahead to February, the euro may remain on the defensive if Eurozone economic data continues to disappoint. Pound GBP/EUR: Up from €1.15 to €1.16 GBP/USD: Unchanged at $1.27 The pound trended broadly higher over the past month, but its ascent did not come without hurdles. This came as a result of some uneven UK data. While Sterling was supported by stronger-than-expected service sector growth and a surprise acceleration in inflation, it also faced headwinds as underwhelming GDP and retail sales figures stoked UK recession fears. GBP exchange rates were also influenced by Bank of England (BoE) rate cut speculation. Bets that the BoE could begin loosening monetary policy as soon as
EURO: Got off to a poor start in 2024 with some disappointing data.
April infused some volatility into the Pound in the latter half of the month. Looking ahead, the start of February will see the BoE deliver its first interest rate decision of 2024. No policy changes are expected next month, but the BoE’s forward guidance could provide a boost to the pound if it seeks to quell rate cut speculation.
US Dollar USD/GBP: Unchanged at $0.78 USD/EUR: Up from €0.90 to €0.91 The US dollar found its footing again in January, helping the currency to claw back a good portion of its losses from December. This recovery in ‘greenback’ has been driven primarily by risk-off flows as growing tensions in the Middle East and
concerns over China’s economy have stoked demand for the safe-haven currency. USD exchange rates have also been supported by a repricing of Federal Reserve rate cut bets. With the odds for a March rate cut having fallen from over 70% to around 50%. This comes in response to some stronger-than-expected US economic releases. The immediate focus for USD investors will be the Fed’s impending interest rate decision. Will the US central bank lean into expectations for a March rate hike? Or will the Fed adopt a more hawkish tone in order to quash this speculation? 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.
VISIT US AT OUR SPANISH OFFICES IN COSTA DEL SOL, COSTA ALMERIA, NORTH COSTA BLANCA AND SOUTH COSTA BLANCA. TELEPHONE UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 • EMAIL EUROWEEKLY@CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM • WWW.CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM.
euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE/NEWS
Frightening to the core LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT DELIGHTED to see Trump still forging ahead in his race to re-establish the Republican crown; thereby bolstering his indomitable ambitions to regain his position in the White House. Before all you Trump haters start mailing in your, ‘anti Leapy’s opinions’ rhetoric, don’t get me wrong, I personally can’t stand the man. To me he is an egotistical, arrogant and utterly dangerous individual. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age, his reputation is exactly what the West requires to steer it through a minefield of world leaders who are bloated with precisely the same qualities. The soft woke approach of those affiliated to the doddering Biden and his implausible bunch of leftie helpers, especially his woke riddled vice president Kamala Harris is actually inviting disaster. ‘Fighting for the people’, which she continues to advocate, is simply in no way formidable enough to compete and even keep the peace (or pace) in a world that is run by the despotic likes
of Putin, Jinping, Khamenei and Kim Jong-un! If anybody can frighten these tyrants into hunkering down into negotiations it is an imperious autocrat like Mr Trump. One thing is for sure, the presidential contender is frightening all his political rivals to the very core. Have no doubt that those involved in the ‘Trump Hunt’ are wallowing in deep symposiums far into the night; all taking place in boardrooms comprised of individuals totally aware that should Trump be once again ensconced in the oval office, it’ll be bye bye to the lot of ‘em. Excluding of course those who see the popularity of their present administration slipping away and raise their heads above the parapet swearing their allegiance to the new leader before they get drummed into oblivion with the rest. (Heaven forbid they would need to sell the yacht or move into a smaller house!) At this moment however they are attempting just about every twist and turn they can to discredit their formidable rival before the votes pour in. They’ve even come up with a distinctly unwell woman who has managed to win a case against him for a rape accusation occurring years ago. The judgment,
undoubtedly brought about by members of the Biden supporters club, has awarded the ‘victim’ some 83 million dollars even though Trump professes to have never even met her. Maybe he has, maybe he hasn’t. I doubt if those who sat in judgment even actually cared. The important thing is the ‘Trump Hunt’ and the discredit it can bring. I also seem to recall this almost certainly equivalent legal mob, somehow damping down a highly illegal state of affairs concerning Biden’s son during his Dad’s own race for the White House. In fact these investigations have been going on pretty unobtrusively for years. Somewhat unsurprisingly it has recently resulted in a plea deal with prosecutors which avoids jail time and quietly squashes any insensitive talking points in the run up to Dad’s new presidential endeavours. What a bunch. Let’s just hope all these trumped up accusations actually come up trumps for Trumps triumph. Or you can probably deal us all out. Keep the faith Love Leapy. leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
An obvious scam Paul Edwards SOMETIMES one has to wonder who is most stupid, scammers or those who fall for what are obviously ill conceived and simply impossible scams. Happily, the average reader of Euro Weekly News is a lot brighter than the idiots behind what has been an ongoing attempted scam for several years. We were sent this by a reader who lives in Costa Blanca and received an email purportedly from the Head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Interpol accusing them of all kinds of nefarious activities. They are asked to respond to this email which has mysteriously found its way from Canada to Brazil (it reads cesar@ aluno.edu.jaru.ro.gov. br) confirming which jurisdiction they live in so that the necessary
Credit: hackNY.org flickr
16 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024
All a scammer needs is a computer and email account.
warrant can be served on them. Clearly the hope is that the person receiving the email will respond and thus their email address is verified which leaves them open to further approaches from the potential scammers. To some extent it would make some element of sense if you live in Canada to receive an email from the Canadian Police (even though it’s obviously false) but the mentality of those sending this accusation to Spain almost beggars belief.
INTERVIEW
Johanna from Finland Johanna Pesonen’s sister has lived in Spain for over 20 years, so her whole family have always had one foot on the ground here and one foot still in Finland. “THE weather is definitely the thing for me: here than in Finland is the bureaucracy, the sun and the relaxed atmosphere, things “I miss being able to do whatever I need that appealed far more than in my home online. Here you can lose an entire day country. If we could have this climate in in an office to sort out just one conFinland, we would be overpotract.” pulated,” said Johanna. Johanna visits Finland Johanna Pesonen is whenever possible, “I CEO of Fuengirola have my family thereal estate agenre, I have friends cy Huugo247 there and I will and has no always have regrets about Finland as my moving here, home coun“if anything it try.” She went has only got on to say, “In clearer that I Finland we may not be able wait nine monto ever move ths every year back,” she said. for the sun so we For her the best can emerge from our thing about living on caves! Here, outside the Costa del Sol is the activities are available Johanna likes the outdoor life. possibility to enjoy outall year round.” side life almost every day of the year. “I am Looking to the future Johanna believes more active in my free time here and have she will stay here for the rest of her life. had more time for my family,” she added. “Of course, you never know, but at the moThe only thing Johanna thinks is worse ment that’s how I feel,” she concluded.
NEWS/FEATURE II euroweeklynews.com
1 - 7 February 2024
A NEW era has begun for electric scooter enthusiasts. But what exactly does this mean for the future of urban mobility? As from January 22, electric scooters sold in Spain must possess a certification to legally operate on the streets. This move by the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) aims to uphold minimum safety and quality standards. Notably, scooters sold before this date can still be used without certification until January 22, 2027. What does it take for a scooter to be certified? First and foremost, they must have a speed indicator and two independent brakes. These scooters, defined as Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), are single-seat, wheel-based transports powered solely by electric motors. Their maximum speed
Credit: tovsla/Shutterstock.com
Clampdown on scooters
ELECTRIC SCOOTERS: Speed control is now crucial.
is capped between six and 25 km/h. If the scooter is fitted with a seat or saddle, it must also have a self-balancing system. Speed control is crucial. The scooter’s motor will cease to propel the vehicle once it reaches 25 km/h. Additionally, an anti-tampering system is mandatory, preventing any modifications to increase speed. Visibility and safety are enhanced with required indicators for speed and battery level. Reflectors are a must: white at the
front, white or auto-yellow on the sides, and red at the rear. The brake light should be distinct or combined with the rear light. Furthermore, there is a stipulation for minimum wheel diameter, and tyres which must have tread for better traction. Scooters are not permitted on crossroads, interurban roads, highways, or through urban tunnels. pavement usage in cities is also prohibited. As recognised vehicles, their drivers must adhere to all traffic regulations.
Sustainable tourism HOW will climate change affect a top tourist destination like Spain? In 2023, Spain emerged as the world’s premier tourist destination, overtaking France for the first time. Last year, the country welcomed approximately 84 million visitors, with tourist spending surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, a recent report on the tourism sector from David Cesar Heymann indicated that climate change is taking its effect on tourist spending. The CaixaBank report highlights that climate change is already impacting Spain’s tourism sector. “The main risk in the medium and long term for tourism in Spain is climate change,” Heymann warns. He explains that a rise of four degrees in summer temperatures could result in a decline in tourism by up to 15 per cent. One of the factors behind Spain’s success as a tourist
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EWN 17
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20 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024
euroweeklynews.com II FEATURE
• News Across The Regions • Costa del Sol Chefs for Children
Costa Blanca North Good Luck, Lee
Axarquia Nordic events
Almeria Make lemonade
Costa Blanca South Pink Harmony
Costa Calida Join Mabs
RENOWNED chefs are raising funds for Autism Spain with the most charitable recipe of the Michelin stars. More than 50 Michelin-starred Spanish chefs will take part on April 22 at the Anantara Villa Padierna hotel in an initiative to raise funds for the social group Autism Spain and to disseminate culinary recipes for children so that they eat healthily. The charity day, supported by the Provincial Council through Sabor a Malaga will begin with healthy cooking workshops with the chefs and 150 children from the Benahavis and Autismo España schools, and will culminate with a gala dinner featuring an exclusive tasting menu prepared by the Michelin-starred chefs who work in Malaga Province.
LOS NÓRDICOS Almuñecar is gearing up for yet another exciting excursion on the third Saturday in February to Nigüelas, nestled under the majestic Sierra Nevada rocks. This outing promises a picturesque journey along Acequias, where members can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of almond blossoms. Los Nórdicos Almuñecar fosters a sense of community among its members. From cultural outings to adventurous trips, the group offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests. To stay updated on their upcoming events and enjoy the perks of membership, be sure to visit their Facebook page. Embrace the camaraderie and shared experiences that make being part of Los Nórdicos Almuñecar a truly special experience.
JOIN the celebration at La Zenia Boulevard on February 3 from 12.00 - 16.00 for a fun-filled day of music, art, and solidarity in support of those battling cancer. Starting with a live broadcast by Radio Sunshine, the event will feature performances by several musicians and singers, with timeless classics to contemporary hits. At 3.00pm, a minute of silence will be observed to honour all those who have faced the battle against cancer. Every donation or purchase contributes to raising vital funds in support of the fight against cancer. Don’t miss this special day where music, dance, and solidarity come together to create ‘Pink Harmony’, leaving a positive impact.
LEE HARKER has taken on a new and more ambitious challenge to support the AKIRA Dog Sanctuary in Benissa. Having successfully raised €10,000 by completing a 240km walk from Moraira to Valencia and back, Lee has now set his sights on a 500km trek from Barcelona to Moraira. The journey kicked off on January 29 and is scheduled to wrap up on February 10, spanning a total of 12 days. Lee’s fundraising target for this endeavour is €20,000, with all donations going directly toward supporting AKIRA and the well-being of the dogs under their care. Expressing gratitude for every contribution, Lee underscores that no donation is too small. To make a donation, visit the website: www.akira-animals.
STORIES of kindness stand out in the chaos of the world news. Angie Grenter found her dream home in Mojacar 12 years ago. Her latest visit was to celebrate her 65th birthday. Unfortunately, she found herself feeling quite ill, and shared the information on her Facebook page. Angie took a walk to get some fresh air, and when she got back there were the biggest lemons she had ever seen lying on her doorstep, with a note attached saying ‘get well soon, from Christine’. She eventually found out it was someone she had met in 2017. She won’t make lemonade: it will be lemon drizzle cake. A small gesture can make a big difference.
MABS Mazarron, is a non-profit organisation which stands as a beacon of hope for individuals dealing with the challenges of cancer. MABS Mazarron is on a mission to extend its services, and it urgently needs compassionate individuals to join its volunteer force. Even if people can only spare a few hours a week, that contribution can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those diagnosed with cancer in your community. MABS Mazarron is actively seeking volunteers for diverse roles, including drivers, carers, van crews, fundraisers, and shop workers. If you’re ready to lend a helping hand and be part of a cause that truly matters, reach out to them at mazvolunteers@mabscancerfoundation.org.
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euroweeklynews.com • 1 - 7 February 2024
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THE UK government has recently endorsed an innovative law, set to transform the handling of pet theft in the UK. The Pet Abduction Bill, championed by MP Anna Firth, introduces severe penalties for those convicted of pet theft, including up to five years in prison, a fine, or both. Recent statistics from the Pet Theft Taskforce revealed alarming numbers, approximately 2,000 dog thefts and over 400 cat thefts were reported in 2020. These figures highlight the significant emotional toll on both the owners and their pets, emphasising the need for stringent laws. Given that 28 per cent of UK adults have dogs and 24 per cent own cats, pet theft has become a pressing issue for the public.
Credit: Bachkova Natalia/Shutterstock.com
Protecting your pets
PET THEFT: New law to safeguard our pets.
Environment Secretary Steve Barclay, empathising with pet owners, stated, “As a dog owner myself, I appreciate deeply what treasured members of the family dogs and cats are. It is a deeply traumatic experience for both the owner and the pet when they are stolen. “This vital Bill will recognise the severity of this shocking crime and should act as a dete-
rrent to anyone considering stealing a dog or cat. We will do all we can to support its swift passage through Parliament.” This announcement is a continuation of broader efforts to safeguard pets, including mandatory microchipping for all cats and dogs. This measure aids in reuniting stolen or lost pets with their owners.
Paw licking WHEN a dog persistently licks its paws, it’s a signal that warrants attention. This behaviour can be attributed to various causes, ranging from physical discomfort to psychological factors. One common reason is allergies. Dogs can develop sensitivities to certain foods, pollen, or household chemicals, leading to itchy skin and paws. In response, they lick their paws to soothe the irritation. Similarly, environmental irritants like road salt or lawn chemicals can also cause discomfort, prompting excessive licking. Another possibility is the presence of parasites, such as fleas or ticks. These pests can cause intense itching and discomfort, leading to persistent licking. Additionally, injuries or foreign objects like thorns or burrs lodged in the paw pads can cause pain, leading to licking as a natural response to soothe the area. Psychological factors, such as anxiety or boredom, can also lead to compulsive behaviours like paw licking.
IN the quest for a harmonious coexistence between our beloved gardens and the local feline population, finding humane ways to deter cats is essential. A key approach is understanding that cats are sensitive to certain smells and textures, which we can use to our advantage. One effective method is using certain plants that emit scents unappealing to cats, like lavender, rosemary, and lemon thyme. Planting these around the garden not only deters cats but also enhances the garden’s aesthetics and aroma. Another option is to use citrus peels; cats dislike the smell of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Scattering these peels around flower beds can keep cats at bay. For those seeking a more high-tech solution,
ultrasonic devices offer a modern approach. These devices emit a high-frequency sound, inaudible to most humans, that cats find unpleasant. Strategically placing these devices can protect specific areas without causing harm to the cats. Water deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers, can also be effective. These sprinklers activate when they detect movement, gently spraying water to startle and discourage cats from entering the area. Importantly, while employing these deterrents, it’s crucial to ensure they are safe and non-harmful to cats. Humane deterrence is about gently encouraging cats to choose other areas for their adventures, maintaining a respectful and kind relationship with our feline neighbours.
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24 EWN 1 - 7 February 2024
TEENAGE dart sensation Luke Littler who hit the headlines recently has been issued with a word of warning from former darts professional Peter Manley. The former world darts number one, Manley, expressed concern about 17-year-old Littler, who has captured the nation’s admiration with stellar performances at the World Darts Championship, Bahrain Masters, and Dutch Masters. Reportedly, Manly commented: ‘Luke Littler, to me, just looks a big unit. If he isn’t careful and doesn’t look after himself, he won’t last long because of that.’ The advice came after Littler’s frequent mentions of his fondness for kebabs, particularly at Alexandra Palace in early January. “Luke Humphries reminds me so, so much of Luke Littler,” Manley, the chairman of the Professional Darts Players Association, stated to a local news source. He drew parallels between Littler and Luke Humphries, another young player who successfully lost four-and-ahalf stone during the coronavirus pandemic. Humphries’ weight loss positively impacted his career, leading him to a World Championship victory. He credits Humphries’ transformation for improving his physical and mental health, overcoming challenges such as anxiety and pressure. He emphasises the endurance needed in the sport, where players often compete from morning to evening, requiring sustained concentration and physical stamina. Manley himself had a wake-up call in his 40s when diagnosed with heart failure, prompting him to alter his lifestyle significantly. Humphries, on his part, has spoken about the difficulty of eating healthily on the darts circuit.
Replacements wanted! John Smith TWO of the biggest football cubs in the world, Barcelona and Liverpool will be looking for new managers at the end of this season. We know that Jurgen Klopp is off to take a sabbatical but at the moment is still under contract to Liverpool until the 2026, so it’s unlikely that his announcement was a subterfuge to head towards Barcelona. As far as Barcelona are concerned, the appointment of Xavi Hernández in 2021 hasn’t turned out to be a success after his first great season as they are currently only in fourth place in La Liga, way off the top spot and are suffering financial fair play difficulties. He opted to go rather than wait to be pushed, but this then leaves something of a poisoned chali-
Credit: FC Barcelona
Littler warning
euroweeklynews.com II SPORT
OPTED TO GO: Xavi announced he was bowing out.
ce for whoever is recruited to take over. There were rumours that former Barcelona
player and now Arsenal manager, Mike Arteta was a favourite but he quickly made it clear that he isn’t
currently interested in the job so that also leaves Barcelona in a bit of a dilemma. There are a few ‘big names’ such as Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho who have recently been sacked, but if they weren’t good enough for Chelsea and Roma (plus plenty of other major clubs) are they right for Barcelona? Back in the UK Roberto de Zerbi has been achieving great things with Brighton and Hove Albion, but look what happened to former Brighton manager Graham Potter who couldn’t make the grade when stepping up to Chelsea. Maybe the logical way to go is to trawl former Barcelona players who are now managers or look at some of the more successful La Liga managers who understand Spanish football.
Grand Prix returns
MADRID is set to host the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix starting in 2026, marking the sport’s return to the city after over four decades. The agreement was finalised last week at IFEMA Madrid. This decision brings the prestigious motorsport back to Madrid, with a commitment spanning from 2026 to 2035. The proposed circuit, which is still pending final approval from the FIA, promises to be a unique addition to the F1 calendar. Stretching over 5,474 km with 20 turns, it is designed to deliver a qualifying lap time of approximately one minute and 32 seconds. The track will incorporate both existing and future roads of the Ifema Madrid site, as well as including a 1.5 km stretch of public roads. The venue will be very close to the Adolfo Suarez
Credit: Tim Henman Charitable Foundation
Tim Henman partnered Hugh Grant in a charity doubles match.
New tennis channel
Credit: cristiano barni/Shutterstock.com
PRESTIGIOUS MOTORSPORT: Hungarian Grand Prix.
Madrid-Barajas airport and only 16 kilometres from the city centre. the Madrid circuit will have facilities never before seen in F1, including a covered and heated paddock, together with transport connections that will be accessible for fans by car, bus, train and metro The event, entirely fun-
ded by private companies, is expected to inject around €500 million into Madrid’s economy every year. This substantial economic impact underlines the significance of hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix in the Spanish capital. Madrid’s entry into the Formula 1 calendar is not just a return of high-octane
motorsport to the city, but also a promising economic opportunity, showcasing innovative circuit designs and strong private sector support. As the engines start to rev in anticipation, the world watches to see how Madrid will transform into a new hub for Formula 1 excitement.
BRITISH tennis lovers will no longer have to wait for Wimbledon to get their fix of strawberries and Champagne provided they have a Sky Sports subscription. The broadcaster has just announced that it will shortly launch the UK’s first TV channel dedicated solely to tennis and from February 11, Sky Sports Tennis and Now will deliver over 4,000 matches from more than 80 tournaments a year on the ATP and WTA tours as well as exclusive coverage of the US Open. Two well-respected former players, Tim Henman and Laura Robson will form part of the new team and names of other commentators, no doubt many from the tennis world, will be revealed shortly. The first week of programming will feature live coverage from the Hologic WTA Tour tournament in Doha, where viewers can watch their favourite players such as Coco Gauff, Ons Jabeur, Aryna Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka and Iga Swiatek. The action continues with the ATP Tour from Rotterdam, followed by an all-star line-up of Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev on court in Doha from February 19.