Mallorca 22 – 28 February 2024 Issue 2016 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

Job surge • Issue No. 2016 • 22 - 28 Feb 2024

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Balearic Islands Day Credit: ESB Professional/Shutterstock.com

Mallorca

IN a vibrant celebration of Balearic Islands Day on Friday, March 1, the Institut d’Estudis Balearics (IEB) has unveiled a series of Catalan music concerts. Kicking off on February 24 and running until April 20, these events are set to captivate audiences across the islands, with a special focus on the day itself, a public holiday. Aimed at engaging the youth with the Catalan language through the universal appeal of music, the series will debut with Matilde Escalas at Santa Maria de Sineu church. Highlights include performances by Bluesmafia and Es Saligardos in Santanyi. The initiative is supported by collaborations with numerous local councils, providing grants for the hiring of Balearic musicians who perform in Catalan. Llorenc Perello, director of the IEB, emphasised the concerts’ role in ‘promoting the use of the Catalan language among the youngest through music’. This cultural feast promises to blend tradition with contemporary sounds, enriching Mallorca’s vibrant music scene.

Tourism now accounts for 12.3 per cent of total employment.

curity affiliates linked to tourist activities rose by 4.8 per cent to surpass 2.5 million individuals. Tourism now accounts for 12.3 per cent of total employment across the country. The Balearics’ leap in job creation is part of a consistent upward trend in

tourism employment since June 2021, with January seeing 115,432 new registrations compared to the same month last year. The growth spans the sector, notably in hospitality and travel agencies, signalling a robust expansion across the board. Industry Minister Jordi Hereu hailed this

Language barrier IN a landmark decision, the National Court has underscored the necessity of Spanish language proficiency for obtaining Spanish nationality, which has left a longterm Mallorca resident of African origin high and dry. Arriving in Mallorca in 1996 and settling in Santa Margalida, the woman sought Spanish citizenship after more than 10 years of continuous residence. Despite her integration into the local community through Catalan in which she is fluent, her application was rejected

due to insufficient Spanish language skills. This case has sparked discussions on the language prerequisites for citizenship, emphasising the need for Spanish over regional languages like Catalan for national integration.

So many languages.

performance as ‘excellent’, attributing it to successful efforts to make Spain’s tourism less seasonal. With every region, including Mallorca, witnessing an uptick in hospitality and travel agency jobs, it’s clear that the islands are at the forefront of Spain’s tourism employment boom.

Credit: garagestock/Shutterstock.com

IN a remarkable display of resilience, the Balearic Islands have topped the charts with the highest year-on-year employment growth rate in Spain this January, boasting a 6.7 per cent increase. This figure outshines the national average, where the number of Social Se-

on 13

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Be alert & aware THE Balearic Islands are witnessing an earlier-than-usual surge in pine processionary caterpillars. The caterpillars are known for their stinging filaments which pose risks to humans and pets, prompting health professionals to call for caution. While human contact generally results in minor irritation, severe cases can lead to anaphylactic shock. Pets however face a greater danger, potentially leading to fatal outcomes. Authorities advise keeping a safe distance from them and urge immediate care if contact occurs, emphasising the importance of washing the affected area and seeking medical advice for severe reactions. Residents are advised to stay vigilant in forested and urban areas.

Seatbelts for wheelchair users.

Safer travel PALMA’S public transport system is set to become safer for wheelchair users, thanks to a new initiative by the Palma Municipal Transport Company (EMT Palma). Mobility and Industrial Estates councillor, Antonio Deudero, announced the installation of seat belts on buses during a visit to the EMT facilities with a group that included representatives of Palma’s neighbourhood associations and individuals with reduced mobility, along with their families. These

belts, designed exclusively for wheelchairs, aim to provide additional safety during sudden stops or manoeuvres. This move, welcomed by users, enhances the already compliant buses with Spanish and European safety regulations. Moreover, EMT Palma is improving its signage inside buses to highlight reserved spaces for those with reduced mobility, ensuring a more inclusive and secure travel experience for everyone in Mallorca.

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Ne’er cast a clout POPULAR sayings and proverbs about the weather abound for every month of the year in Mallorcan culture. Particularly in the countryside, where life depends on the weather, these proverbs distilled from popular wisdom have traditionally indicated when to plant crops or to be wary of the first glimpse of sunshine and not to recklessly assume the winter is over. There is usually a saying to go with any climactic event, whether about rainfall or the arrival of certain birds. However, with the general shift in weather patterns attributed to climate change, these are no longer always reliable. One thing is certain, the residents of Mallorca are enjoying an unusually warm February. But the following saying advises caution: ‘Si pel febrer calent estàs/Per Pasqua tremolaràs’. In other words, anyone feeling warm in February will be shivering at Easter. So, it is not time to dispense with over-

Credit: Annette Christmas

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Credit: noticies.palma.es

Almond trees blooming early.

coats just yet (a precaution backed up by another popular refrain, roughly translatable as ‘Don’t take off your coat until May 40th’, (which of course never comes). The almond trees traditionally put on a spectacular display in February, delighting locals and attracting many visitors to Mallorca. They have blossomed a couple of weeks early this year, at the end of January instead of mid-February, which could affect the crop, as frost and wind could nip the almonds in the bud.

Vandalism crackdown IN an assertive move, Palma’s mayor, Jaime Martinez, has announced the impending enactment of a new civic ordinance aimed at curbing vandalism and incivility. Due to take effect within the next two to three months, the ordinance prescribes hefty fines of up to €3,000 for severe infractions, including graffiti on protected buildings. Martinez emphasised the need for a hard stance on public disorder, stating, “You have to be tough on incivility. It cannot be that the taxes that all citizens pay are wasted on fixing facades and street furniture that others destroy.” The ordinance will empower the Local Police of Palma with drones and video surveillance to tackle graffiti, damage to street furniture, and misuse of public spaces. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reverse years of neglect and promote cleanliness and civility across Palma’s 84 neighbourhoods.

Football first ALICIA CARBONELL has broken the mould in Mallorcan football by becoming the first woman to coach a men’s amateur team, taking the helm at CE Algaida. Previously serving as the assistant coach, Carbonell’s promotion was announced by the Balearic Football Federation (FFIB), marking a historic moment in the sport’s local history. In Spain, there are 11,000 male coaching licences, compared to just over 700 female coaches. ‘Breaking a barrier,’ as she puts it, Carbonell’s journey from player to pioneering coach reflects her dedication to football and her desire to open doors for future female coaches. With over a decade of experience in grassroots football and armed with a UEFA A-level coaching licence, her appointment is celebrated by the FFIB, which also highlights its commitment to equality and respect in the sport.

euroweeklynews.com Geographic, NIBS EXTRA NATIONAL the renowned American

Record fine

A PALMA police officer was fined €2 million for renting 68 substandard units to migrants in Gomila, Forners, and s’Indioteria. This record penalty by the Balearic Government was issued following serious infractions by offering inadequate housing without proper facilities.

Heroic rescue

AN off-duty Palma police officer, along with two civilians, successfully revived a 70-year-old man who suffered a cardiac arrest at Josep Tarradellas-El Prat airport in Barcelona on February 3. Using a defibrillator and CPR, they restored the victim’s vital signs before health services took over.

Tea trouble

BRITISH expats in Mallorca are facing a tea shortage due to supply chain disruptions and Brexit complications. Supermarkets on the island are inconsistently stocked, resulting in bulk purchases whenever tea is available.

Traffic alert

DUE to renovations at Placa d’Espanya, Calle dels Capuchins in Palma is to be closed to vehicles from February 20 for five weeks, affecting nearby streets. Access is limited to residents with parking and the Olivar market via Placa del Comtat del Rossello.

Work hazard

IN 2023, the Balearic Islands led Spain in workplace accidents with a rate of 4,172 per 100,000 workers, totalling 26,045 incidents and 21 fatalities. This marked the highest regional rate, surpassing Navarra, La Rioja, Castilla-La Mancha, and Murcia in the ranking.

journal has spotlighted Pollenca as the place to be in Mallorca during Holy Week 2024, revealing why this town is a treasure trove of Easter traditions and year-round beauty. The magazine gives five good reasons to visit. Nestled in the north of the island, Pollenca boasts an old town with cobbled streets, traditional Mallorcan architecture, and a tranquil atmosphere that charms every visitor. The Church of Our Lady of the Angels, with its imposing baroque altarpie-

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Easter gem Credit: Adam Loader/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0

The 365 Calvari Steps, in Pollenca, Mallorca.

ce and picturesque bell tower. For those seeking breathtaking views, the

Tractor protest ON Monday, February 19, Mallorca witnessed an unprecedented display of unity and protest as around 170 tractors took to the streets of Palma. The convoy came from various regions including Campos, Vilafranca de Bonany, Ariany, Santa Maria, and sa Casa Blanca. The demonstration was a direct response to what has been described as the ‘inaction’ of public institutions towards the agricultural crisis affecting the Balearic Islands and Spain at large. Converging at the Llevant industrial estate before proceeding through the city’s main arteries, the protestors aimed their

demands at the European Union, as well as Spanish and Balearic governments. Their grievances ranged from the excessive bureaucracy, a more flexible Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Additionally, they highlighted the unfair competition from imported products not adhering to EU standards, the impact of climate change, and the unique challenges of insularity, urging for recognition and support similar to Greece. Their collective voice was a powerful reminder of the critical role the agricultural sector plays in Mallorca’s economy and the urgent need for action.

climb up the 365 steps to El Calvari is a must, offering panoramic vistas of

a bid that underscores the cultural, economic, and social stakes involved in preserving this craft. Since the EU’s recent nod to extend PGI to artisanal products, Mallorca sees a golden opportunity to safeguard a tradition at risk from generational gaps and counterfeit imports. Antonia Roca, Vice-President of the Council and Minister of Culture and Heritage, stres-

the town, bay, and Serra de Tramuntana. Art enthusiasts will be intrigued by the Dionis Benassar Museum. Lastly, the town’s culinary offerings further enhance its appeal, with traditional restaurants, bars, and terraces serving delicious Mallorcan cuisine. Holy Week in Pollença is particularly special, marked by the Descent from the Cross on Good Friday. Other highlights include Holy Thursday’s procession, with its unique depictions of the Passion of Christ, and Easter Monday’s pilgrimage to Puig de Maria.

Nature exhibition THE Council of Mallorca has breathed new life into the Misericordia chapel by inaugurating the ‘Natural Spaces’ exhibition. This showcase of the natural areas under the Ministry of Defence, part of the Natura 2000 Network, aims to spotlight the rich diversity of flora and fauna in military zones. The exhibition opened on February 20 at 7.00 and will run until March 2, with visiting hours from 10.00am to 1.00pm and 5.00pm to 8.00pm, Monday to Saturday. The opening event featured a talk by Jorge Moreno Perez, ex-director of Cabrera National Park, which focused on

Craft crusade IN a groundbreaking move, the Council of Mallorca is set to champion the cause of language fabrics at the European Parliament. On Wednesday, February 21, representatives from the island, alongside the three remaining Mallorcan producers of these unique textiles, travelled to Brussels. Their mission was to secure Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status,

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sed the importance of this moment for the island’s heritage and its artisans’ future. The delegation’s agenda includes pivotal meetings with MEPs and a conference aimed at highlighting the significance of Mallorca’s textile legacy. This initiative not only promises recognition but also a sustainable future for an art form unique to Mallorcan identity.

Credit: conselldeMallorca.cat

Natural spaces exhibition.

the Balearic Islands’ natural spaces. Vice-president Antonia Roca’s vision of transforming the Misericordia into a cultural hub is becoming a reality, with the chapel now joining as a venue for cultural events after a two-year hiatus. The effort to highlight Mallorca’s cultural richness continues, with the Misericordia hosting this and other exhibitions such as ‘Geodesia’.

YOUR EWN HAS

STORIES in this week’s edition

Ocean odyssey IN an age dominated by digital communication, a young German boy living in Mallorca has rekindled the romance of adventure with a message in a bottle. Eleven-year-old Tillmann’s letter, cast into the sea from Mallorca, has miraculously found its way to Italy, covering a distance of 1,400 kilometres. Discovered on a beach in the Bay of Naples, the letter shares Tillmann’s hobbies, dreams, and a longing to connect with a stranger in this vast world. Dario Grande, the finder, plans to continue the journey with his own message, hoping to eventually meet Tillmann. This tale of curiosity and exploration reminds us of the magic that exists beyond our screens, celebrating the timeless joy of discovery and the unexpected connections that transcend borders.

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Iconic soundtracks Credit: palma.es

Cycle expansion A NEW Bicipalma station in Son Sardina, opened on Tuesday, February 20, by deputy mayor of Mobility Toni Deudero, marks a significant expansion in Palma’s cycling infrastructure. This addition, the 85th station, connects Son Sardina with key locations across the city, including Cami dels Reis and Son Castello estate. The completion of phase 2 of the Bicipalma expansion sees nine new stations introduced, with plans for 16 more funded by the Municipal Society of Parking and Projects SA (SMAP) with an investment of €800,000. This next phase also includes adding over 150 electric bicycles to the fleet, increasing electric bike availability to 38 per cent.

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New Bicipalma station.

The Bicipalma project, supported by Next Generation EU funds, aims to enhance sustainable mobility across Palma, with a contract awarded to NextBike for €2,991,220. This development represents a pivotal moment in the city’s transport strategy, emphasising a commitment to green, accessible transport options.

The Royal Film Concert Orchestra covers spaghetti western soundtracks.

IMMERSE yourself in the iconic world of cinema’s musical genius at the ‘The Music of Morricone, Zimmer, Williams & Hisaishi’ concert on Saturday, March 2, at the Auditorium in Palma de Mallorca. This extraordinary event celebrates the legendary film compositions of Ennio Morricone, Hans Zimmer, John Williams, and Joe Hisaishi, performed by the Royal Film

Concert Orchestra. American composer John Williams, with a career spanning 70 years and 54 Academy Award nominations, is known for his work on films such as Star Wars, E.T., and Schindler’s List. Italian maestro Ennio Morricone, celebrated for his groundbreaking soundtracks in Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns like The Good, The Bad And The Ugly,

has contributed to over 70 award-winning films. The concert will also feature scores from Joe Hisaishi and Hans Zimmer, renowned for their compositions in films like The Lion King and Gladiator. Don’t miss this chance to experience these unforgettable scores. Tickets start at €48, with a premium experience available for €68.

Water wait IN a setback for Manacor’s ambition of providing high-quality tap water to its residents by 2024, the city’s plans have hit a significant snag. The eagerly awaited sewage treatment plant, a major policy of the left-wing ruling party Mes-Esquerra, AIPC’s vision for the city, has now been postponed until 2025 due to unexpected technical alterations. The project, which is pivotal for transforming Manacor’s water supply system, will undergo an unavoidable four-month delay, as outlined by Sebastia Llodra, the councillor for the environment. The alterations aim to enhance the future maintenance of the facility by reorganising the distribution of essential components. Despite the pause, the city is committed to not rushing the project, underscoring its critical role in Manacor’s infrastructure. The new plant which will cost €3.1 million, is expected to process up to 10 million litres of water daily, addressing a long-standing public health issue that has existed since the 1980s.

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Pioneering racer MALLORCA’S own Pakita Ruiz is setting her sights on victory in the first-ever FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship. As part of the PS Racing Team 46+1, the 26-yearold is among five Spanish riders entering the fray, including Andrea Sibaja, Ana Carrasco, Beatriz Neila, and Sara Sanchez. The competition, which kicks off in May, promises intense action across six events, each hosting two races in circuits such as the UK’s Donington Park and Jerez in Spain. Ruiz’s ambition is palpable. ‘The goal is to win and I hope I can bring the title to Mallorca. I think I deserve it and that it has to be mine,’ she declared, underscoring her pioneering role

Charging delay PALMA’S city council has announced a significant delay in the rollout of electric car charging points, extending the deadline by a decade due to insufficient demand. Initially set to establish 2,000 charging stations by 2030, the new plan under Emaya’s current leadership pushes this to 2040. Llorenc Bauza, the councillor for the Environment and Emaya’s president, labelled the original timeline ‘unrealistic’ and a potential financial burden. Despite the postponement, Bauza assures compliance with Royal Decree-Law 29/2021, focusing on a more gradual expansion. This includes the introduction of 192 new charging points in the coming months, raising the total to 332. The decision reflects a broader strategy to balance energy self-sufficiency with the city’s core services, such as water supply and cleanliness, amidst debates on public versus private sector roles in energy provision.

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Mallorca’s Pakita Ruiz.

and determination. Despite challenges, including fundraising through calendar sales since age eight, Ruiz remains a beacon for aspiring female motorcyclists, proving that dreams, no matter how big, are worth chasing.

Emergency landing A RYANAIR flight en route from Madrid to Palma de Mallorca made an unscheduled but crucial landing due to a medical emergency onboard. Reportedly, an eyewitness revealed that about 30 minutes after takeoff, flight attendants were observed dashing through the cabin. The crew quickly responded to a passenger who was suffering symptoms of dizziness and vomiting. A call for medical professionals onboard saw three individuals come forward,

offering their help to manage the situation effectively. The quick actions of the flight crew and volunteer doctors allowed for a priority landing in Palma, where an ambulance was already awaiting the aircraft’s arrival. The passenger, who exhibited signs of a diabetic emergency, was quickly evacuated and transported to a nearby hospital for further care. This incident not only highlights the efficiency and preparedness of the Ryanair crew, but also the willingness to help among fellow passengers.

Swimming champion A NEW star has emerged from Mallorca as Hugo Gonzalez clinched the world champion title in the 200-metre backstroke at the World Championships in Doha, Qatar, on Friday, February 16. The 24-year-old swimmer who has already qualified for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, previously secured a silver medal in the 100 backstroke last week. Gonzalez set a personal best with a time of 1:55.30 minutes, edging out Swiss swimmer Roman Mityukov by a mere 10th of a second. South African Pieter Coetze completed the podium with a bronze. This victory

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Mallorcan world champ: Hugo Gonzalez.

marks Gonzalez as the fourth Spaniard to achieve world champion status in an Olympic pool, joining the ranks of Martín Lopez Zubero, Nina Zhivanevskaya, and Mireia Belmonte. With his triumph, Gonzalez has not only brought pride to Spain but has also shone a spotlight on Mallorca’s swimming talent on the global stage.

9 OUT 10 CUSTOMERS RECOMMEND US In a recent survey of our customers after using Línea Directa’s Roadside Assistance and breakdown services, over 90 per cent said they would happily recommend our insurance services to a friend or colleague. Línea Directa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to answer the questions in our survey as it has given us valuable feedback on our services and enabled us to integrate positive changes and continue to provide expert solutions for overseas residents in Spain. ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING IS IN ENGLISH Car, bike and home insurance, with absolutely everything in English. The emergency and claims hotline is fast and efficient, with quick no obligation quotes over the phone. The customer service team will help you decide on the best policy and there are easy payment options so you can spread the cost of your premiums. DID YOU KNOW? All Línea Directa insurance policies offer additional features specifically designed for expatriates living in Spain. Their home insurance includes Pet Assistance, IT Assistance, and Home Maintenance. All motorbike policies come with Replacement Motorbike, Technical Equipment cover and even Young

Person’s Night-time Assistance. And their car insurance includes helpful services such as Legal Assistance that can provide help when applying for or renewing your driving licence in Spain. EXPAT2EXPAT REWARD PROGRAMME When an existing Línea Directa customer recommends a new customer, they both receive €30. Línea Directa’s Expat2Expat programme is free and open to all existing customers. You can recommend up to 10 people and earn up to €300 in cash per year. Simply ask your friend to call 917 002 006 and quote your full name. Then once their application for car, bike or home insurance has been approved, Línea Directa will pay the reward straight into the bank account following payment of next or first premium. For more information, see terms and conditions at lineadirecta.com. LOWER THE PRICE OF YOUR INSURANCE Change to Línea Directa and they will lower the price of your insurance. Línea Directa has been providing comprehensive car, motorbike and home insurance to British expatriates and residents in Spain for over 25 years. With over three million customers nationwide, Línea Directa makes sure you get the best possible price for the kind of insurance you really need.

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CLASSIC CARS: Continue driving on the beautiful island of Mallorca.

Car enthusiasts ON behalf of the committee of the Classic Car Club Mallorca we thank you for your continued interest in the club and driving on our beautiful island. We have been sending out some gentle reminders that the membership fees for 2024 are now due. If you have not had an individual email with regards to this then contact us for the bank account details for you to be able to pay this year’s fees. Please ignore this email if you have recently paid your fees. The annual fee this year has had to be increased to €100 to cover the increase in expenditure to run the club and the rallies. All memberships will now run to the end of December each year so that renewals are at the same time for everyone. The fee

covers administrative costs and running the rallies as rally participants at events only pay the actual cost of the restaurant for the meal on the day. The committee are always trying to provide new ideas and excursions, but we are open to suggestions from club members of new places to go and enjoy together. If you would like to organise a rally, then please contact us. You will not be left without support and a committee member will be there to help you wherever possible with this and the organisation. If you have any queries, then please contact us: carsclubmallorca@gmail.com. Happy motoring to all and look forward to seeing as many as possible of you in 2024!

THE streets of Palma, like many across Spain, are witnessing the final disappearance of an iconic fixture: the telephone booth. Once a staple of the urban landscape through much of the 20th century, these booths have now vanished from Ciutat’s streets. This comes after Telefonica, through subcontractor Circet and with the aid of Cort operators, completed their removal. Just a year ago, Telefonica began the process by removing the first booth in Plaza Paris. By June, only a fraction of the 115 booths installed in Ciutat had been removed, prompting Palma’s city council to speed up the process. The disappearance marks the end of an era, with the booths having fallen into disuse over two decades

Credit: Joaquin Ossorio Castillo/Shutterstock.com

Have you noticed?

Image of an outdated Spanish public telephone.

ago due to the rise of mobile phones. A 2020 study by the National Markets and Competition Commis-

sion highlighted their obsolescence, noting that 88 per cent of Spaniards had never used a phone booth.

In a hurry LAST week, Palma Local Police apprehended a driver who was speeding at 123 kilometers per hour on a section of Camí Salard where the speed limit is 40 kilometres per hour. The driver was identified and is now facing charges for endangering road safety. According to the Local Police, the incident occurred around 11.30 in the evening. Officers from the Night Unit were conducting a speed check when they observed a vehicle traveling at 87 kilometres per hour,

RAFA NADAL, the Spanish tennis legend, has added another feather to his cap by winning the Balearic Golf Championship in Mallorca, marking his first victory in the Mid-Amateur category. Displaying a talent that rivals his prowess on the tennis court, Nadal dominated the amateur golf competition, outclassing the best non-professionals in the Balearic Islands. Competing on the renowned Santa Ponsa I course, a site that has hosted seven professional tournaments on the European circuit, Nadal excelled with scores of 73 and 74 across two rounds, totalling +3 over par. This victory comes after a notable absence in 2023 due to injury, a sixth-place finish in 2021, and

exceeding the speed limit by 47 kilometres per hour. Consequently, the police filed a complaint for a serious traffic violation. Merely five minutes later, the same vehicle was spotted again at the same location. However, this time it was traveling at three times the maximum speed, clocking in at 123 kilometres per hour. Given the severity of this road safety violation, the police took immediate action to identify the driver and prepared a report to be forwarded to the courts.

Nadal triumphs a close second in 2022. Nadal’s remarkable performance, finishing seven strokes ahead of his nearest competitor, Jaime Nicolau, and nine ahead of James Robert Hannington, underscores his versatility and competitive spirit across sports disciplines. This win not only highlights Nadal’s exceptional golfing skills but also his deep connection to Mallorca, celebrating local talent on an international stage.

• News •

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Bob Marquess

SELFIE bans at tourist spots are becoming more common, and for good reason: they save lives. A study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine found that selfie-related deaths have surpassed fatalities from shark attacks. Over 13 years, there were 379 selfie-related

deaths, with 140 involving tourists, compared to 90 fatal shark encounters. In Venice, Italy, a gondola nearly capsized because tourists were too focused on taking selfies instead of listening to safety warnings. Thankfully, there were no injuries, but the incident could have ended tragically.

People risk their lives for the perfect selfie, leading to fatal falls from cliffs, accidents with vehicles and trains, dangerous encounters with wildlife, and drownings. Authorities are taking action, imposing fines and even jail time for reckless selfie behaviour. For example, a woman died while attempting a

Do you speak English? FOR English speakers considering a move to Europe, prioritising countries where English is widely spoken can alleviate concerns about language barriers. According to the English Proficiency Index released by Education First (EF), several European countries excel in English proficiency. In a study conducted by the European Commission, it was found that 62 per cent of surveyed Brits couldn’t speak a second language, highlighting the

challenges faced by native English speakers in learning foreign languages. Similarly, an InterNations study identified the language barrier as a significant concern among expatriates. EF’s English Proficiency Index, which analysed the English test results of two million individuals worldwide, including from 35 European countries, provides insights into the top countries in Europe for English speakers. Each country received a ranking out of

800 points. Northern European countries dominate the rankings, with Croatia making it to the 10th spot. Finland, Sweden, and Denmark secure the ninth, eighth, and third positions, respectively. Austria claims the second spot, scoring 641 points out of 800. However, the Netherlands clinches the top spot, boasting a high percentage of Dutch citizens proficient in English. On the other hand, Italy ranked lowest among European countries in terms of English proficiency.

Language of Love THE accent that most captures people’s hearts? It’s no longer French, according to Babbel, the language learning platform. In a recent study involving 6,000 participants from several countries, Italian emerged as the new ‘sexiest’ and ‘most romantic’ accent. This might come as a surprise, considering French held the title in Babbel’s previous poll. Babbel’s language teacher Noël Wolf explained why Italian might be so appealing. He confirmed: “This could be due to the rise and fall of pitch in Italian speech creates a musical quality, and the distinctive rolling ‘r’ sounds which add to its charm.” Interestingly, British English was seen

as the ‘most polite’, while German was perceived as the ‘most direct’ language. The survey also looked into attitudes towards partners speaking different languages. Over 70 per cent of Brits surveyed believed that learning their partner’s native language would strengthen their emotional connection. Experts like linguist Patti Adank suggest that English speakers are drawn to the melody of languages like French or Italian. Social and cultural associations with accents play a big role in these perceptions. Overall, while France might need to adjust to losing its crown, the allure of Italian accents seems to have won over many hearts.

selfie at Prabalgad Fort in India, and a spectator’s selfie caused a massive pile-up during the 2023 Tour de France. Portofino, Italy, introduced a temporary selfie ban to prevent tourists from obstructing traffic while taking photos. The desire for attention and validation on social media often drives reckless behaviour, causing people to ignore safety warnings or venture into dangerous areas. On average, victims were 24.4 years old, with women more likely to die from falls or animal encounters, and men more likely to die in transport-related incidents. India, the United States, and Russia have the highest number of selfie-related deaths.

Image: Dudarev Mikhail / Shutterstock.com

Selfie bans

Tourists take risky photos.

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Frozen pensions

Powerful passport Credit: chrisdorney/Shutterstock.com

IS it fair that numerous British expatriates have had their state pension payments frozen based on the country they have relocated to? This could affect half a million UK expats. A debate about UK residents living abroad, highlighted a policy that impacts those who retire in certain countries, like Canada and New Zealand, by freezing their pension payments at the rate they were when they left the UK. Recently, the UK Pensions Minister Paul Maynard addressed MPs, confirming the government’s decision to maintain the status quo. An estimated 500,000 senior Britons are denied the full state pension benefits they would have received had they remained in the UK or retired in countries that are eligible for pension increases. Roberts argued, “Following our withdrawal from the EU, we are rightly able to move closer with our partners in the Commonwealth and one of the ways we can do that would be to confirm that all British citizens that live in the Commonwealth should be entitled to the appropriate uprating of their state pension as if they were still in the UK. “Will the minister meet with me to discuss the practicalities of ma-

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Department for Work and Pensions home page.

king that happen and restore some much-needed common sense to a needlessly complicated situation? “According to the latest estimate, based on data from March 2022, uprating the state pension where we do not currently do so would cost about £0.9 billion a year if all UK state pensions in payment were increased to current UK levels.’ The issue has garnered public support, leading to the initiation of a parliamentary petition by Robert Lloyd Crutchlow, which reads: “We believe the freezing of UK citizens pensioners is discriminatory, unjust and immoral.”

Anna Ellis SPAIN has taken the crown as the world’s most powerful passport, surpassing Singapore, according to a new index released by VisaGuide. World. This marks a departure from the Henley Passport Index, where Singapore held the top spot previously. In VisaGuide.World’s index, Japan is the only non-European country in the top 20, securing the 15th position. The top ranks are dominated by European nations, with Germany following Spain in third place, followed by Italy, France, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Czechia, Portugal, Hungary, and Luxembourg. Austria ranks 16th, with Switzerland, Belgium, Ireland, and Poland completing the top 20. Both the Henley Passport Index and VisaGuide.World’s Passport Index assess the number of destinations passport holders can access without a visa.

Image: JJFarq / Shutterstock.com.

Spain has taken the passport crown.

While Henley’s ranking is yet to be released, VisaGuide. World considers various factors beyond visa-free access to create a ‘destination significance score’ for each country. This score takes into account entry policy, GDP, global power, and tourism development. Visa-free access to countries with a higher destination significance score earns more points in the index. As of December 2023, Spanish passport holders can travel to 160 countries and territories without a visa. While Singaporean passport holders enjoy access to

164 countries, Spain’s points are bolstered by its ability to visit numerous places with just an ID card under the European Union. Though Singapore grants visa-free access to 15 countries not accessible to Spain, the reverse is also true for Spain, which has visa-free entry to 11 countries and territories not available to Singapore. While Germany shares visa-free access to the same 160 countries as Spain, Spain benefits from visa-on-arrival facilities in Papua New Guinea and Togo, which Germany does not have.

• NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

ARE you looking for a little taste of hotel luxury? Last year, Europe welcomed some impressive new hotels, including Richard Branson’s Son Bunyola on Mallorca’s coast and the transformation of the Old War Office into Raffles London at the OWO. And this year looks just as exciting. London will be a highlight, with the Emory by the Maybourne Hotel Group opening in Knightsbridge. This all-suite hotel, with a restaurant by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, starts at £2,000 a night. The Mandarin Oriental Group will open its second London property in Hanover Square in Mayfair. Elsewhere, Rosewood has launched a new hotel in Munich after a 10-year break. They’re also renovating a historic building in Amsterdam that once was the Palace of Justice.

Chilling chronicles Nora Shephard PREPARE yourself for an unparalleled adventure: the world’s most unique hotel, entirely crafted from ice and snow, awaits you. Welcome to the Icehotel in Swedish Lapland, a destination that epitomises innovation and creativity. Situated 200km north of the Arctic Circle, in the village of Jukkasjarvi, this extraordinary hotel undergoes a metamorphosis each winter, unveiling new designs year after year for over three decades. The latest incarnation of the Icehotel is a testament to artistic prowess. Collaborating with 32 artists from 14 different countries, alongside a dedicated team of 90 individuals, the creation involved the utilisation of 500 tonnes of ice and 10 Olympic swimming pools’ worth of ‘sn-ice’, which is

‘SN-ICE’: A blend of snow and ice.

a custom blend of ice and snow. This winter, intrepid guests are invited to immerse themselves in a wonderland of fantastical designs. From a cat and rat chase to the allure of the goddess of chocolate and a cacao ceremony, from

Job satisfaction Image: ICEHOTEL / Facebook.

Luxury openings

22 - 28 February 2024

a frozen seashore to the vast expanse of a desert landscape, every room tells a unique story. Encounter fairies and trolls, traverse extraterrestrial hieroglyphs depicting the Baltic Sea Anomaly, or marvel at the intricate details of a Beaver dam.

WHICH European city offers its staff the highest level of job satisfaction? The European Commission recently released its Report on the Quality of Life in European Cities, revealing the top 10 cities in Europe with the highest job satisfaction rates. Topping the list is Rostock, Germany, with an impressive 85 per cent job satisfaction rate. Luxembourg City and Reykjavik, Iceland, closely follow, both boasting an 84 per cent satisfaction rate. Other cities making the top 10 include Geneva, Switzerland; Dortmund, Germany; Berlin, Germany; Zurich, Switzerland; Aalborg, Denmark; Malmo, Sweden; and Hamburg, Germany. These cities scored between 82 and 81 per cent in job satisfaction. The survey highlights that larger and capital cities generally offer more job opportunities and bet-

ter pay, which contributes to residents’ overall well-being and attractiveness to job seekers. About 74 per cent of employed respondents expressed satisfaction with their jobs. While cities in Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Austria, Czechia, and Slovakia reported higher satisfaction levels, cities in Greece, Italy, Hungary, and Spain reported lower levels. Interestingly, there were minimal differences in satisfaction levels between capital and non-capital cities within countries, except for Italy and Turkey, which showed significant intra-country variations. Overall, satisfaction levels remained relatively stable from 2019 to 2023, with minor fluctuations observed. Some cities saw improvements in job satisfaction, while others experienced declines.

10 22 - 28 February 2024

• European Press •

IRELAND

EUROPRESS

THE Central Statistics Office (CSO) added air fryers, gin and disposable vapes to the basket of items and services used to calculate the annual inflation rate. Landlines, swiss rolls and digital cameras are amongst newly-excluded goods “as they no longer play a significant a role in consumer spending,” the CSO said.

No comment INTEL, which employs 4,600 people in Leixlip and 300 in Shannon, plans to raise at least €1.86 billion to fund a semiconductor factory in Ireland, sources close to the California-based company said. An Intel representative later declined to comment on reports that it was sounding out possible investors.

NORWAY

PORTUGAL

Photo credit: Recirosa Lda

Phased out

euroweeklynews.com

Viral Clio A RENAULT Clio became famous in Portugal for the wrong reasons after it was seen driving on the A28 in Viana do Castelo with its back end entirely destroyed. Photos of the car went viral although it has finally ended its days at a scrapyard which recently announced that the Clio “can now enjoy a well-deserved rest.”

Fashion riches ACCORDING to the annual estimated wealth and assets assessment compiled and published each year by the US business magazine Forbes, businessman Stefan Persson is Sweden’s richest person. Persson’s $16.87 billion (€15.66 billion) fortune is based on the H & M fashion chain in which he holds a major stake.

Jailhouse blues SWEDEN’S Prison and Probation Service is creating a management team to deal with the increasingly urgent cell shortage. The service has said that the lack of space means the problem can only get worse and before long it will be difficult to accommodate those on remand and as well as those serving terms.

JOURNEY’S END: Clio at the scrapyard.

ITALY

SWEDEN

FRANCE

DENMARK

Marmite okay

Iraq gift

Fair dues

Cliff breakup

NORWAY’S English-speaking media came to the recue of Marmite recently after Anglican vicar and author Richard Coles claimed that it was banned. Not so, The Local, stated, clarifying that the love-it-hate-it yeast extract spread needs special authorisation in neighbouring Denmark as it is fortified with added vitamins.

ITALY presented Iraq with a replica of the Ninth Century BC, five-metre-tall Bull of Nimrod which Isis terrorists destroyed in 2015 by bulldozing the archaeological site 30 kilometres from Mosul. The statue was recreated by Italian artists who consulted images and video footage to copy the monument using 3D-printing technology.

A FRENCH court ruled that funeral homes must pay royalties for music played during services and ordered OGF, one of the country’s largest funeral companies, to pay €80,000 and €37,000 to two copyright associations. Applauded as ‘a win’ for artists, critics said the measure was “an insensitive money grab.”

A SECTION of the white limestone and chalk Mons Klint cliffs, a popular tourist spot on the island of Mons, broke away on February 13 after a period of prolonged and heavy rain. This was the second incident in the area so far this winter, following a more serious landslide at the beginning of January.

Bumpsadaisy

Call up

That’s rich

Rainy season

AN aircraft bound for Stockholm was slightly damaged after its wingtip hit a fence when leaving the gate at Oslo airport on February 14. Although no-one was injured, this was the third incident in a fortnight after a plane clipped another aircraft’s wing on February 13 and a third collided with the same fence on February 2.

THE European Union should create an army to prevent conflict and oversee peacekeeping missions, declared Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, a former president of the European parliament. Other EU members were less keen with Spain, Denmark, Poland and Slovenia labelling the proposal ‘unrealistic and unnecessary’.

MORE than 50 per cent of France’s 34 government ministers, including the 34-yearold PM Gabriel Attal, are millionaires, researchers found after scouring data made available to the public under transparency laws. A quarter of the ministers also belonged to the one per cent of the population classed as ‘super-rich’.

DENMARK experienced its wettest February in more than 10 years with 59 millimetres falling during the first half of the month. This was 29 per cent more than the usual monthly figure of 50.3 millimetres but lagging behind 2020 when the country’s weather stations recorded an unprecedented 135 millimetres.

FINLAND

GERMANY

BELGIUM

NETHERLANDS

Cashing in

Spy game

Strike-stricken

Mystery wall

SHOPS may no longer refuse cash under recent legislation although Unizo, which represents small and medium-sized businesses, described the decision as “bullying” and attempting to solve a non-existent problem. The legislation is in line with EU regulations and means that business which repeatedly refuse cash can be fined.

THE NETHERLANDS’ Ministry of Defence revealed that Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) discovered hackers working for China had infiltrated a military network in 2023. Advanced Chinese malware used on Fortigate systems from the Californian company, Fortinet, had made this possible.

INLAND’S spate of strikes over the last two months has cost the economy approximately one billion euros, the Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK) calculated. The latest stoppages affected bus-drivers and petrol station employees on February 14, followed by dockers on February 15 and 17.

INVESTIGATORS from Rostock and Christian-Albrechts universities discovered a one-kilometre section of stone wall off the Mecklenburg-Western Pomeria coast estimated to be more than 10,000 years old. Built when the area was above sea level and densely wooded, experts believe its purpose was linked to reindeer hunting.

Big Freeze

Wotcher cock

No change

Ocean wave

THE Belgian government told the EU and the G7 that Ukraine’s financial problems could be helped by allowing it to raise funds from private sector lenders by using Russian central bank assets currently frozen by sanctions. Belgium suggested the strategy because most of these assets are held in Europe and G7 countries.

ANIMAL welfare organisations in the Rotterdam area asked the city council to tackle the problem of abandoned poultry after its animal collection service failed to pick up a cockerel abandoned in a hotel room. Police later collected it and took it to Zwerfkip en Zo, which finds homes for abandoned animals.

MOST Finns are satisfied with the country’s alcohol laws, with 57 per cent seeing no reason to change them, although 11 per cent told a recent survey that they would like to see regulations tightened up. Forty-four per cent said they would like to buy wine in shops instead of the state-owned Alko monopoly.

THE next Ocean Race Europe sets sail on August 10, 2025, from Kiel, the finish port of the Volvo Ocean Race 2001-2002 and hosted the 2022-2023 Ocean Race’s penultimate leg. The route will begin in the Baltic, continuing through the North Sea, English Channel and Atlantic before finishing in the Mediterranean.

FINANCE Not enough

A SURVEY for the Resolution Foundation think tank found that 11 million people of working age in the UK did not have savings of at least £1,000 (€1,170). Many of the British faced a “triple challenge” of insufficient savings, inability to cope financially with major life events and inadequate pensions, the Foundation said.

Idealista deal

SWEDISH private equity company EQT has engaged Morgan Stanley to sell the Spanish property website, Idealista, four years after acquiring a majority stake. The company is valued at approximately €2.5 billion, Reuters reported, but the process is still at an early stage with the sale unlikely until the second half of 2023.

On time

AUSTRALIAN company Q-CTRL and UK firm Oxford Quantum Circuits are developing a supercomputer enabling the Department of Transport to overhaul train timetables and ensure that they run punctually. Q-CTRL has also been awarded part of a £15 million (€17.6 million) computing fund to finance its work.

Jobs lost

EIGHTY-FIVE employees will be made redundant at the Coca Cola plants in Madrid and Barcelona, the company’s total staff reductions in Spain is now 100. The company intends to restructure jobs, grouping together all customer services, human resources and business operations in Bulgaria, union officials said.

Aldi ploy

ALDI is spending £550 million to attract more customers, with plans to open 500 stores in town centres and suburbs. Although the German discounter is the UK’s fourthlargest chain, its market share fell from 10.2 per cent in September 2023 to 9.3 per cent in January this year.

euroweeklynews.com • 22 - 28 February 2024

STAT OF WEEK

€11 billion

destined for Iberdrola’s called-off purchase of US power company PNM Resources will now be invested in the Spanish multinational’s distribution network.

Inflation holds steady

Linda Hall THE UK’s annual inflation rate remained at 4 per cent in January despite rising energy prices and the cost-of-living crisis. Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that the expected rise failed to materialise, despite Bank of England predictions of a slight increase while City economists polled by Reuters anticipated a climb of 4.2 per cent increase. Core inflation, which excludes energy, food, alcohol and tobacco, remained unchanged at 5.1 per cent, while services’ inflation rose to 6.5 per cent in January, up from 6.4 per cent the previous month.

Photo credit: Rishi Sunak

JANUARY INFLATION: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed latest figures

“I absolutely believe that the economy has turned the corner and we’re now pointing in the right direction,” Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak told business leaders during the first meeting of his 2024 Busi-

Duke sells up HUGH GROSVENOR, Duke of Westminster, plans to sell Spanish assets worth €300 million. Grosvenor, the Duke’s property company is currently disposing of direct assets throughout Europe, hoping to sell four office blocks in Madrid that include the headquarters of gas supply company Naturgy and the Unicaja bank. The 33-year-old Duke’s fortune, which the Times Rich List put at £9.878 billion (€11.58 billion) in 2023, makes him the eleventh-richest person in the UK and it wealthiest under-35.

ness Council on February 14. “Hopefully that’s something that you’re seeing in your businesses, but inflation has been more than halved from 11 per cent down to 4 per cent,”

Some of Britain’s oldest money is based on one of the most important property portfolio in London that boasts exclusive prime sites in Mayfair, Fitzrovia, Covent Garden and Soho. Grosvenor investments in Spain have ranged from shopping centres to luxury developments, but after marketing its residential investments the group is now focusing on the Madrid buildings. According to sources quoted in the financial daily Cinco Dias, Grosvenor has wanted to sell the four office blocks

he said. Last month’s better-than-predicted cost of living news is set to be followed by inflation falling to the government’s 2 per cent target by spring. January was the first time it dipped to this level since July 2021, after which it rose to 11.1 per cent in October 2022 before beginning a gradual decline. The latest ONS figures could pave the way for a cut in the current 5.25 per cent interest rate, which has risen 14 times between December 2021 and August 2023. The hoped-for reduction would help to boost personal spending and, in turn, the economy. Photo credit: naturgy.com

BUSINESS EXTRA

NATURGY: Madrid office block belongs to Duke of Westminster

since 2022 although so far offers have been too low owing to the effect of high interest rates on investments. Sales of offices have also been affected by the switch to working from home that was introduced during the pandemic.

Shot in the arm

Huge Basf plant

Talking the talk

HEPATITIS B drug Bepirovirsen produced by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has been fast-tracked by US regulators and will now reach the market sooner. The medication “addresses an unmet medical need”, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in yet another boost for the UK-based pharmaceutical giant whose strong results enabled it to upgrade its growth forecast from 5 to 7 per cent in January. GSK sales rose 5 per cent to £30.3 billion (€35.5 billion) in 2023 with an operating profit that increased by 12 per cent to £8.8 billion (€10.3 billion).

EUROPEAN multinational Basf, the world’s largest chemical producer, will spend €500 million on a car battery recycling plant in Tarragona. Once completed, the installation will be the biggest of its yet built in Europe to recover nickel, cobalt, lithium, copper and manganese on this scale. It is also expected to provided jobs for 200 people. Basf has received at least three packages of public money totally €125 million but although the company has not yet disclosed the sums involved, a company spokesperson confirmed to the El Pais newspaper that the future operation was going ahead. Sources close to the Basf project, who preferred not to remain anonymous, revealed that the project had grown since its inception and that the €500 million investment was likely to be closer to €700 million.

VIRGIN MEDIA O2, owned by Telefonica and Liberty Global, are again in talks with TalkTalk. The Telefonica subsidiary negotiated in 2022 to acquire Talk Talk in a £3 billion (€3.5 billion) transaction but failed to reach an agreement. Talk Talk has approximately four million UK customers and 2.4 million fibre connections, and a deal would strengthen Virgin Media 02’s position as a rival to BT, which traditionally dominates the British market. At the same time, Telefonica faces competition from rivals and insiders commented that a formal offer for Talk Talk would increase pressure on Vodafone, which could launch a counterbid.

Talgo deal A HUNGARIAN consortium confirmed on February 9 that it hopes to take over 100 per cent of Spain’s Talgo. No agreement has yet been reached, although according to media reports Magyar Vagon would pay €5 per share for the emblematic rolling stock manufacturer. The Hungarian company admitted that the bid might not be successful although the National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) lifted its trading ban on trading Talgo shares on February 12. Magyar Vagon first needs approval from the Spanish government as well as Talgo’s principal shareholders, Pegaso Transportation (40 per cent) and the Torrblas investment company (5 per cent).

Gove challenge MARKS & SPENCER launched a High Court battle on February 14 against the government’s decision to block plans for its Marble Arch store. The chain is arguing that “inconsistent” Housing Secretary Michael Gove has “misinterpreted and wrongly applied planning policy” for M&S’s multimillion revamp of the Art Deco landmark. This entails demolishing and replacing the 1929 building with a 10-storey block “to bring it up to modern standards” while allocating only two and half floors to retail space. In the meantime, similar projects across the UK have been put on hold as developers await the outcome of the M&S case.

In the bag EXCLUSIVE shoe and bag maker Tod’s is delisting from the Milan stock exchange. It has agreed a deal to sell a 36 per cent stake to private equity group L Catterton, which is a partnership between another luxury group, France’s LVMH and the family investment group belonging to its founder Bernard Arnault. Tod’s will receive €43 per share, an 18 per cent premium on the closing price for the company’s shares on February 9 which puts a value of around €512 million on the company.

14 EWN 22 - 28 February 2024

euroweeklynews.com II FINANCE

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 19 February

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3I Group.....................................2.447,60.............+19,60........... +0,81%......... 249,13K Admiral Group.............................2.574,0................ -7,0..............-0,27%........... 68,79K Airtel Africa.................................. 97,75................. -1,75.............-1,76%............1,02M Anglo American...........................1.820,0...............+53,0............ +3,00%......... 936,32K Antofagasta................................1.745,50.............+56,00........... +3,31%......... 313,15K Ashtead Group............................5.322,0...............+72,0............ +1,37%......... 157,05K Associated British Foods.............2.283,0................ -2,0..............-0,09%.......... 197,43K AstraZeneca................................9.962,0..............+136,0........... +1,38%......... 484,92K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 717,84................+5,64............ +0,79%......... 193,52K Aviva........................................... 431,20................+1,20............ +0,28%......... 839,92K B&M European Value Retail SA... 512,30................+4,50............ +0,89%......... 391,51K BAE Systems..............................1.235,00.............+10,00........... +0,82%......... 887,97K Barclays...................................... 146,62................+3,20............ +2,23%...........8,17M Barratt Developments................. 474,79................ -0,91.............-0,19%............1,24M Beazley........................................ 586,00................+3,00............ +0,52%......... 209,35K Berkeley......................................4.700,0...............+32,0............ +0,69%.......... 24,28K BP............................................... 470,80................+2,05............ +0,44%...........5,80M British American Tobacco...........2.395,0............... -27,0.............-1,11%.......... 936,29K BT Group.................................... 107,40................+1,10............ +1,03%...........5,06M Bunzl...........................................3.191,0...............+10,0............ +0,31%......... 107,51K Burberry Group...........................1.331,0...............+17,0............ +1,29%......... 157,44K Centrica....................................... 140,35................+4,15............ +3,05%...........5,20M Coca Cola HBC AG......................2.455,0...............+15,0............ +0,61%......... 241,65K Compass....................................2.191,00..............+3,00............ +0,14%......... 546,43K ConvaTec Group......................... 243,00................+1,60............ +0,66%......... 723,92K Croda Intl....................................5.048,0...............+24,0............ +0,48%.......... 37,08K DCC.............................................5.696,0...............+38,0............ +0,67%.......... 35,77K Diageo.........................................2.924,5...............+26,5............ +0,91%...........1,68M Diploma.....................................3.386,00.............+54,00........... +1,62%.......... 40,90K DS Smith.................................... 326,94................+4,04............ +1,25%...........1,85M Endeavour Mining......................1.307,00.............+15,00........... +1,16%.......... 54,79K Entain.......................................... 938,43................ -0,37.............-0,04%.......... 251,42K Experian......................................3.381,0...............+26,0............ +0,78%......... 233,37K F&C Invest.................................. 988,95................+4,95............ +0,50%......... 133,94K Flutter Entertainment..................17.065,0.............+195,0........... +1,16%.......... 68,42K Frasers........................................ 836,50................+9,50............ +1,15%.......... 53,84K Fresnillo...................................... 488,60................+9,70............ +2,02%......... 113,61K Glencore...................................... 399,85................+8,85............ +2,26%...........9,17M GSK plc......................................1.662,00.............. -1,00.............-0,06%............1,24M HALEON...................................... 322,70................+2,25............ +0,70%...........2,64M Halma..........................................2.226,8...............+30,8............ +1,40%......... 116,75K Hikma Pharma...........................1.985,50.............. -1,50.............-0,07%........... 46,22K Howden Joinery.......................... 801,40................+1,60............ +0,20%......... 310,51K HSBC.......................................... 633,60................+7,00............ +1,12%...........7,37M IAG.............................................. 146,80................+0,40............ +0,27%...........1,95M IMI PLC......................................1.730,14.............+26,14........... +1,53%......... 102,75K Imperial Brands..........................1.832,50..............+2,00............ +0,11%......... 547,34K Informa....................................... 812,20................+1,20............ +0,15%......... 349,44K InterContinental..........................7.702,0...............+20,0............ +0,26%.......... 48,02K Intermediate Capital...................1.836,00.............+29,00........... +1,61%......... 124,28K

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

Intertek........................................4.415,0...............+67,0............ +1,54%.......... 35,38K J Sainsbury................................. 253,90................+2,90............ +1,16%...........1,67M JD Sports Fashion....................... 112,00................+2,15............ +1,96%...........1,55M Kingfisher.................................... 227,20................+2,10............ +0,93%......... 982,79K Land Securities........................... 643,60................ -0,60.............-0,09%.......... 183,60K Legal & General.......................... 238,40................+1,00............ +0,42%...........2,16M Lloyds Banking............................ 42,58.................+1,00............ +2,39%..........48,09M London Stock Exchange..............8.852,8............... -51,2.............-0,58%.......... 162,89K M&G........................................... 223,83................+0,83............ +0,37%...........1,07M Marks & Spencer........................ 236,50................+4,80............ +2,07%...........2,05M Melrose Industries...................... 603,80................ -7,00.............-1,15%.......... 543,75K Mondi.........................................1.379,00..............+6,00............ +0,44%......... 145,42K National Grid..............................1.012,08..............+3,08............ +0,31%......... 953,40K NatWest Group........................... 228,30...............+14,00........... +6,53%..........18,91M Next............................................8.434,0...............+34,0............ +0,41%.......... 27,23K Ocado.......................................... 533,80................ -5,20.............-0,97%.......... 399,00K Pearson....................................... 966,00................ -3,00.............-0,31%.......... 271,37K Pershing Square.......................... 48,75.................+0,60............ +1,25%........... 3,74K Persimmon.................................1.427,5................+7,0............. +0,49%......... 129,53K Phoenix....................................... 504,40................+3,20............ +0,64%......... 326,52K Prudential.................................... 834,40...............+26,80........... +3,32%...........1,39M Reckitt Benckiser........................5.702,0.................0,0............... 0,00%.......... 260,57K Relx............................................3.365,00.............+51,00........... +1,54%...........1,17M Rentokil....................................... 419,20................+3,70............ +0,89%...........1,30M Rightmove.................................. 555,20................+5,60............ +1,02%......... 232,23K Rio Tinto PLC..............................5.499,0..............+171,0........... +3,21%......... 655,46K Rolls-Royce Holdings................. 316,90................ -3,10.............-0,97%............3,23M RS PLC....................................... 784,20...............+13,60........... +1,76%......... 243,69K Sage...........................................1.169,50..............+7,00............ +0,60%......... 467,29K Schroders.................................... 407,4..................+3,6............. +0,89%......... 208,34K Scottish Mortgage....................... 801,46...............+12,66........... +1,60%......... 701,00K Segro.......................................... 839,80................+6,40............ +0,77%...........1,08M Severn Trent...............................2.547,0................+4,0............. +0,16%.......... 83,32K Shell............................................2.487,0...............+23,0............ +0,93%...........2,27M Smith & Nephew........................1.114,33..............+5,33............ +0,48%......... 274,29K Smiths Group.............................1.622,16.............+17,16........... +1,07%.......... 81,70K Smurfit Kappa.............................3.236,0...............+36,0............ +1,12%.......... 59,67K Spirax-Sarco Engineering..........10.340,0.............+105,0........... +1,03%.......... 19,02K SSE............................................1.588,50..............+3,00............ +0,19%......... 400,29K St. James’s Place........................ 642,40................+7,40............ +1,17%......... 169,14K Standard Chartered..................... 598,47...............+17,67........... +3,04%......... 911,22K Taylor Wimpey............................ 146,45................+0,75............ +0,52%...........2,49M Tesco.......................................... 277,00................+0,80............ +0,29%...........1,94M Unilever.......................................4.016,0...............+35,0............ +0,88%...........1,03M Unite..........................................1.000,00..............+2,50............ +0,25%......... 151,14K United Utilities............................1.040,50...............0,00.............. 0,00%.......... 199,31K Vodafone Group PLC.................. 66,240............... -0,330............-0,50%...........15,38M Weir Group................................1.842,50.............+41,50........... +2,30%......... 115,23K Whitbread...................................3.510,0...............+27,0............ +0,78%.......... 79,39K WPP............................................ 779,00................+8,80............ +1,14%......... 362,54K

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY WITH US See our advert on previous page 0.85558

1.25861

Units per € US dollar (USD)...................................1.0769 Japan yen (JPY)...................................161.83 Switzerland franc (CHF).......................0.9489 Denmark kroner (DKK)........................7.4547 Norway kroner (NOK)..........................11.323 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 19 February

Company

Price(p)

Change(p)

% Chg.

Net

3M............................................... 92,38.................+1,47............ +1,62%...........3,81M American Express....................... 212,53................+1,63............ +0,77%...........2,57M Amgen........................................ 289,07................+1,25............ +0,43%...........2,90M Apple........................................... 183,86................ -0,29.............-0,16%...........61,94M Boeing......................................... 205,33................+1,95............ +0,96%...........5,03M Caterpillar.................................... 323,07................+6,36............ +2,01%...........2,31M Chevron...................................... 154,46................+5,08............ +3,40%...........8,90M Cisco............................................ 49,06................. -1,22.............-2,43%...........42,16M Coca-Cola..................................... 59,40.................+0,11............ +0,19%..........13,65M Dow............................................. 55,17.................+1,59............ +2,97%...........4,41M Goldman Sachs........................... 385,42................+7,38............ +1,95%...........2,20M Home Depot................................ 361,08................+2,85............ +0,80%...........2,56M Honeywell................................... 197,95................+3,08............ +1,58%...........1,93M IBM............................................. 186,87................+3,30............ +1,80%...........4,71M Intel.............................................. 44,05................. -0,14.............-0,32%...........40,67M J&J............................................. 157,92................+2,18............ +1,40%...........6,78M JPMorgan................................... 179,87................+3,84............ +2,18%...........8,60M McDonald’s................................. 291,86................+3,69............ +1,28%...........2,23M Merck&Co................................... 126,54................+0,72............ +0,57%...........5,67M Microsoft.................................... 406,56................ -2,93.............-0,72%...........21,59M Nike............................................. 106,05................ -0,28.............-0,26%............7,02M Procter&Gamble......................... 157,01................+1,38............ +0,89%...........5,97M Salesforce Inc............................. 291,94................+2,79............ +0,96%...........3,62M The Travelers.............................. 219,02................+2,40............ +1,11%...........1,29M UnitedHealth............................... 520,88................+3,94............ +0,76%...........2,29M Verizon......................................... 40,59.................+0,44............ +1,10%..........10,49M Visa A.......................................... 280,98................+3,42............ +1,23%...........4,82M Walgreens Boots.......................... 22,29.................+0,75............ +3,48%...........8,13M Walmart...................................... 169,29................+0,69............ +0,41%...........5,63M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 19 February

Company

Change Net / %

Volume

Most Advanced Pegasystems Inc..............................................+35.67%.........................3.391M JFrog Ltd..........................................................+28.44%........................10.397M Tomra Systems ASA........................................+27.11%......................... 18,157 Shake Shack Inc...............................................+26.04%.........................6.068M AppLovin Corporation......................................+24.81%........................16.004M Sylvamo Corporation.......................................+24.08%.........................1.024M Alkermes plc....................................................+16.33%..........................5.47M Lyft, Inc............................................................+16.11%........................90.698M BridgeBio Pharma, Inc.....................................+14.14%.........................3.671M Blueprint Medicines Corporation......................+14.02%.........................1.629M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Fastly, Inc......................................................... -30.59%........................23.522M Twilio Inc......................................................... -15.39%........................19.018M West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.................. -14.08%.........................3.118M PENN Entertainment, Inc.................................. -13.84%.........................20.95M YETI Holdings, Inc........................................... -13.84%.........................6.792M Manchester United plc..................................... -13.40%.........................1.814M Iridium Communications Inc............................ -13.04%.........................3.441M Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.......................... -10.19%.........................5.427M Marathon Digital Holdings, Inc.......................... -8.13%.........................96.155M KOSÉ Corporation............................................. -7.94%.......................... 80,691 Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc................................ -7.72%..........................2.812M M - Million Dollars

FINANCE II euroweeklynews.com It’s a gas

BRITISH GAS 2023’s operating profits soared from £75 million (€87.7 million) in 2022 to £751 million (€878.2 million). Centrica, British Gas’s parent company, explained that changes to gas and electricity regulator Ofgem’s energy price cap allowed them to compensate for costs sustained during the pandemic and by taking on the customers of failed competitors.

Ideal site

POWERCO’S €3 billion gigafactory in Sagunto (Valencia), which will produce an annual 500,000 batteries for electric vehicles that are produced at Volkwagen’s (VW) Martorell and Pamplamo plants, will use desalinated sea water. It was Sagunto’s coastal location that made it perfect for the new factory, the VW subsidiary explained.

Romantasy pays LONDON-LISTED Bloomsbury Publishing upgraded its revenue and profit forecasts amid growing demand for “romantasy” novels. The London-listed company expects a full-year revenue of £291.4 million (€341.1 million) and pre-tax profits of £37.2 million (€43.5 million) compared with £264.1 million (€309.1 million) and £25.4 million (€29.7 million) in 2023. Shares have also risen by a record 11.5 per cent.

Photo credit: sarahjmaas.com

BUSINESS EXTRA

22 - 28 February 2024

BEST SELLER: Sarah J Maas boosted Bloomsbury Publishing’s revenue

Out of service INFRASTRUCTURE development company ACS is selling its services subsidiary Clece. The company hopes to raise €700 million from the sale and concentrate on its construction and concessions business. Analysts said that ACS is following in the footsteps of competitors and returning to its origins by divesting itself of its services companies.

Ferrovial, for instance, sold Infrastructure Services to Madrid-based Portobello Capital in 2021 and its Environmental Services company to PreZero that same year. In 2019 its Australian services business went to the Ventia Services Group and a UK subsidiary, Amey, was sold to One Equity Partners, in 2022. Sacyr, in 2023, sold Valoriza Services to Morgan Stanley for €734 million.

Bloomsbury, which publishes the Harry Potter books by JK Rowling who is now worth more than £1 billion (€117 billion, has enjoyed buoyant sales since the pandemic lockdowns re-awoke an interest in reading. The company is now profiting from a growing taste for romantasy - a combination of romance and fantasy - whose authors include Samantha Shannon and Cixin although Sarah J Maas is arguably Bloomsbury’s leading provider of the genre. Her latest book, which was released at the end of January 2024, has reached the Number One spot in the UK, the US and Australia. Bloomsbury’s chief executive Nigel Newton has described Ms Maas, as a “publishing phenomenon”, who has produced 15 books and is under contract to provide a further six. “We are very fortunate to have signed her up with her first book 13 years ago,” Newton said.

EWN 15

Inflation up SPAIN’S inflation rose from 3.1 per cent in December 2023 to 3.4 per cent in January after IVA added-value tax on electricity rose from 5 to 10 per cent as the government phases out concessions for small consumers. If fuel prices had not dropped slightly, January’s inflation would have been still higher, the National Statistics Institute (INS) said.

Fallen icon THE BODY SHOP, acquired by private equity group Aurelius in November 2023, went into administration on February 13, endangering the future of 100 of its 200 shops and putting more than 2,000 jobs at risk. Trading will continue during the process, according to the administrators who said they were considering “all options” for the former high street favourite.

• Feature/News •

Back to flower power LEAPY LEE SAYS IT OTHERS THINK IT IT’S all too much ennit? I wanna go back to flower power, the overwhelming presence of peace and love; a blissful time, when our young lives were spiritedly enlightened by wispy joints, a cheap bottle of wine and the occasional ‘upper’. The nearest you ever got to politics was the sporadic glimpse of an amicable politician, enjoying a bottle of bubbly and surrounded by young beauties in a popular local club. No chance. I’ve just been listening to youngsters presenting their news programme on TV. Young, ill-informed lives who have been totally brainwashed by the left, virtually appearing to blame Israel for every move against the Palestinians and completely ignoring Hamas, a terrorist organisation who actually began this present conflict by killing and beheading the young and elderly Israelis as they were relaxing in the comfort of their own homes. On it all goes.

Even the 50s and 60s gangsters kept problems within their own environments. Not anymore. World leaders have changed all that. Putin is of course your classic gangster. He is undoubtedly an ego maniac. He is surrounded by thugs, hit men, bent politicians and ‘financial advisers’. He rubs out or ‘subdues’ any opposition as a warning to others, runs a money laundering operation on a gigantic scale and, although it appears to be waning, most of the general public within his domain still consider him a hero. You don’t get more classic than that. Of course, that is where the resemblance ends. He makes the Capone Gotti’s and mafia dons of this world look like pussies. Throughout all this dangerous and worrying era we can however all console ourselves with one fact; Putin won’t attack the West, nuclear or otherwise. Why would he? He still earns most of his ill-gotten gains from the West. He’s not involved in skullduggery from a view of patriotism or communistic ideals. He’s in it for the power and the money. Despite its opposition, taking out the UK would be like

Al Capone destroying Chicago. He definitely doesn’t want to obliterate a future golden egg of our magnitude. I do however still consider a nuclear war could be a possibility. I truly believe that the world is closer than it has ever been, even during the Cuban missile crisis. At least in those days the USA and the USSR pulled just about all the strings. Both of these powers were fairly stable and had reasonably sane leaders. Now they are all at it. And a number are nowhere near predictable or, in my opinion, particularly sane. Kim Jong Un with North Korea, run by a man boy who thinks he’s playing video games. Iran, ruled by a paranoid regime who believe that the more you take with you the more virgins you get in the afterlife. China, who peer at the world through ever more narrowing eyes. And the two bill toppers, a megalomaniac who assassinates his political rivals and another who should be put out to graze. Peace and love to y’all out there? Some chance. 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.

euroweeklynews.com

Brussels smallest house WHAT is believed to be the smallest house in Brussels has been put up for sale at an asking price of €195,000. Having an internal dimension of just 60 square metres, it still manages to offer two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen and shower room but even the agent agrees that it needs modernisation. They try to put a positive spin on this unusual property which is sandwiched in between two other larger houses by stating on their website “A unique property that is ideal for anyone that is looking for originality, charm and something that is exceptional”. At just 2.15 metres wide, the door takes up much of the frontage and it is clear that it has been

Credit: Trevi Estate Agents

16 22 - 28 February 2024

The front of number 242, Brussels’ smallest house.

built on to at the back and into the roof as some of the rooms are much larger than might initially be expected from first sight of the exterior although it does supposedly have a landscaped garden. Although it is in a much sought after and expensive area, the agents admit that there have only been four viewings so far but with typical estate agent’s bravado suggest that it would be an ideal purchase for an architect who could prove how skilful they were in making the most of limited space.

INTERVIEW

The climate is best BORN in Krefeld, Germany, Wilma Fone has lived across the globe, including Jordan, England and the United States. But having moved to Spain 20 years ago, Wilma finds it is Spain she wants to stay in: ¨I absolutely love it here and I wouldn’t like to be anywhere else.” WILMA had initially moved to Moning to life in Spain was easy: “I don’t raira and then to Calpe, find myself really missing having bought some anything. I understand property with her and can speak the family. It is here basics of Spanish. she decided When I have to to spend her go to offices or retirement, do paperwork, having enjopeople are very yed the Spanice to me. As nish culture long as you and nature. try, it is easy to “Spain’s climac o m m u n i c at e te is the best! I and get things love the people done here.” here and the reEven though laxed way of life,” Wilma learns the says Wilma. language from her Her daily life reSpanish friends, she Wilma Fone. mains vibrant and busy: explained that she is “I take care of my garden, I swim in surrounded by people of all nationathe pool and go out for meals with my lities: “I have English and European friends. Here in Spain, I’m just living friends: quite a lot of nationalities. and enjoying it.” Even when I look at my family, it’s Wilma revealed that the transitiovery international and I love that.”

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20 22 - 28 February 2024

• Feature •

euroweeklynews.com

• News Across The Regions • Costa del Sol Cudeca needs help

Costa Blanca South Simply soaring

CUDECA fell some €120,000 short of the target it had set itself during its Sunflower Movement campaign. The charity needed to raise €250,000 to be able to continue funding its two home help teams, but with the funds raised it only has enough to maintain one. After three months of campaigning, it has managed to raise almost €130,000 with donations from public institutions, entities, partners and individual donors, to whom the NGO is grateful. These funds will enable a team to care for some 200 people in their homes and offer support and help to carers, estimated at 400 people. Although the Movimiento Girasol fundraising campaign has ended, Cudeca is keeping different avenues open to continue raising funds. For information visit the website: movimientogirasol.org.

IN a recent announcement, the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport set new records with a total of 958,088 passengers and 6,468 flights. This marks a 20.5 per cent increase in passengers and an 18.8 per cent increase in flights compared to January 2023. The growth is driven by international travellers, accounting for 805,602 passengers, up 22.1 per cent from the previous year. The recovery of the British market in the airport area and its great connectivity with 20 airports in the United Kingdom, as well as the good performance of other international destinations during the winter months, have made it possible to reach this volume of travellers. Among international travellers, the UK led with 287,555 passengers, followed by the Netherlands (77,631), Belgium (63,598), Poland (61,901), and Germany (56,392).

Axarquia Award-winning care

Costa Blanca North Shattering records

IN a groundbreaking achievement, the ‘Unidad de Día Pediátrica CUDECA’ (CUDECA’s Paediatric Day Unit) project has been honoured with the Rada Nadal Foundation Award in Health and Well-being. This recognition celebrates the project’s commitment to providing non-medicalised care to children facing incurable diseases. The Paediatric Day Unit, an initiative by CUDECA, stands out for its innovative approach to paediatric care, offering compassionate support to young patients and their families. The Rada Nadal Foundation’s acknowledgement underscores the significance of initiatives dedicated to enhancing the well-being of those dealing with challenging health conditions. With gratitude, CUDECA extends heartfelt thanks to the Rada Nadal Foundation for championing initiatives like theirs that make a positive impact on the lives of children.

ACCORDING to data released mid February by the Valencian government, in 2023, the Community saw a record number of international tourists. Figures show nearly 10.5 million visitors and spending reaching €12.6 billion. The British market remained the top source of tourists, contributing 24.8 per cent of foreign visitors, totalling over 2.5 million tourists. The data from surveys conducted by INE highlight significant increases in tourism from France and Germany, with 27.6 per cent and 18.7 per cent growth, respectively. Nuria Montes, Tourism councillor, emphasised the importance of these figures, underscoring the Valencian Community’s standing as an international tourist destination. The government will further promote the region in 2024, with over 150 promotional activities in 20 markets.

Almeria Rare egg stolen

Costa Calida Magical night

THE very first egg laid by the female of the incredibly rare pair of red-necked ostrich was stolen from the zoological reserve at the MiniHollywood Oasys in Tabernas on Sunday February 18. Now extinct in the wild only 40 male and less than 38 female red-necked ostrich (Struthio camelus camelus) are known to exist on the entire planet and all are part of a Captive Breeding Conservation programme in zoos around the world. The arrival of the first egg was considered a triumph when the female, named Carlota laid the egg but within a matter of hours it had disappeared, presumably removed by a member of the public who must have jumped into their enclosure and made off with the egg.

MABS San Javier Cancer Support Foundation extends a helping hand to cancer patients in the region, providing essential support services. The organisation offers counselling, translators, equipment, drivers, and complementary therapy to enhance the well-being of those facing the challenges of cancer. MABS San Javier presents a delightful fundraising evening on April 20 at Marios in Sucina. The event promises a magical touch with magician Graeme Mykal, followed by live music with Sean Holsgrove and Tapas. Tickets are priced at €15 and can be obtained from MABS San Javier or by contacting Maxine on WhatsApp on 633 467 108. For those seeking more than just entertainment, MABS San Javier invites you to explore their furniture sale at their store.

PETS

euroweeklynews.com • 22 - 28 February 2024 SPONSORED BY

Cat cuddles

CUDDLING your cat offers a multitude of benefits, both for you and your feline friend. This simple act of affection strengthens the bond between you, promoting a sense of security and trust in your cat. Physiologically, cuddling releases endorphins in both humans and cats, reducing stress and creating a calming effect. For humans, it can lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease, while for cats, it reinforces their social bonds and helps socialise

Shutterstock.com Julija Sulkovska

Cuddling nutures both the cat and the owner.

Looking for a trusted pet-sitter?

them further. Moreover, these intimate moments of closeness allow owners to detect any unusual signs in their cat’s health early on. Regular cuddles contribute to a cat’s overall well-being, making them feel loved and valued, which is crucial for their emotional health. In essence, the power of a cuddle goes beyond mere physical warmth, fostering a deep, empathetic connection that nurtures the well-being of both pet and owner.

Join HouseSitMatch and find free checked trusted pet-sitters online KEEPING your pets at home when you travel can give you real peace of mind. Our house and pet-sitters can also entertain your pets and keep them company while you are away. We’re rated 4.9 / 5.0 on TrustPilot. When you know the sitters are checked and come from House SitMatch you know we have your back. What is more, they won’t charge you a cent! Our house and pet-sitting works as an exchange of services. You offer free accommodation and the pet-sitters house-sit for free! You review each other at the end. If you’re travelling in 2024 join our network now to find sitters, sooner rather than later. Get organised today! All pets benefit from staying at home, so their routines are undisturbed. Choose Housesitmatch.com for affor-

Shutterstock.com Vera Aksionava

Provide plenty of chew toys.

the consequences of rough play, mimicking the feedback they would receive from their littermates. This helps puppies understand the limits of play and the strength of their bite. Consistent training and providing plenty

dable travel, home and pet care. Next steps: 1. Register as a homeowner on HouseSitMatch.com 2. Choose a Standard account (£69 per year) to ensure you can help online when needed 3. Create a profile with photos of your pet and the house

Need a pet or house-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20% discount using coupon code 20EWN – Reader exclusive offer. To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.Housesitmatch.com.

Naughty nibbles PUPPY mouthing is a natural behavior where puppies nibble on hands and objects as part of their exploration and play. It’s crucial for pet owners to address this behaviour early on to prevent future issues, understanding that it’s not aggression but a learning phase. Puppies learn bite inhibition from their interactions with littermates, a lesson that owners must continue through positive reinforcement. Redirecting their mouthing towards appropriate chew toys instead of hands or household items teaches them acceptable behaviour. A firm ‘no’ or a yelp when bitten too hard, followed by a brief period of ignoring the puppy, can effectively communicate

If you want a trusted pet-sitter to cherish your pets read on.

4. Post an advert for the dates when you want to go away. Sitters apply and you choose. How does it work? HouseSitMatch can help you find suitable sitters. Join our network for a small annual fee. You get ID checked for safety, then build an advert to find sitters. House-sitters see your advert, respond, and you choose the sitter of your choice. Trustpilot Testimonials - 4.9 / 5 Excellent I have used HouseSitMatch for the last three years and would highly recommend it. Very easy to communicate with and very helpful by phone if needed. Janet Bryant, Pet owner How do you join? Please register online via our website www.Housesitmatch. com.

of chew toys are key to guiding your puppy through this phase. Early and positive training methods are essential for developing a well-behaved adult dog, ensuring a lasting and harmonious bond between pet and owner.

THE veterinary field is experiencing a significant evolution with the increased incorporation of specialists into clinics and hospitals, fundamentally enhancing pet care. Traditionally, the limited availability of specialists within veterinary practices led to extended wait times for diagnosis and treatment, as referrals to external experts were often necessary. This process delayed care and added stress for both pets and their owners. However, the trend of hiring in-house specialists, including dermatologists, surgeons, and other professionals, is streamlining the delivery of veterinary services. This approach drastically cuts down on wait times, enabling pets to receive specialised care more promptly. Specialists bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise in their fields, offering advanced treatments and a more comprehensive approach to

Pet care revolution health issues. This strategic move towards integrating specialists directly into veterinary practices marks a leap forward in pet healthcare. It ensures that pets have quicker access to

expert care, improving the quality and efficiency of their treatment. This development not only reflects an advanced standard of veterinary medicine but also deepens the bond between pets and their owners.

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• Sport •

24 22 - 28 February 2024

Rugby’s meteoric rise IS rugby in Spain on the cusp of a transformation? The Royal Spanish Rugby Federation (RFER) has announced a record budget for 2024, signifying a pivotal moment for the sport’s history in Spain. The president of RFER, Juan Carlos Martin Sanchez Hansen, recently unveiled a budget exceeding €11.5 million for the year 2024. This announcement was made from the federation’s headquarters, marking a substantial increase from €5.4 million in August 2022. The federation credits its remarkable growth to a strategic focus on enhancing revenues from sponsorships, event organisation, and contributions from the Higher Sports Council (CSD) and World Rugby. As a result, sponsorship and related revenues have seen a 21 per cent increase, with expectations of further growth. ‘With the generation of these new income, the

RFER has invested in creating an operational structure with more people, new processes and an organisational culture that has made this Federation capable of aspiring to grow as an organisation at the service of Spanish rugby,’ the federation highlighted. This financial injection has enabled better preparation for national teams, a significant increase in training days, and the introduction of new teams, including the Women’s M20 and Emerging 7 women’s teams, alongside three Iberians teams. The RFER’s ambitious budget reflects a strategic vision aimed at not just financial growth, but also at nurturing the sport’s development and accessibility in Spain. By reallocating resources and focusing on strategic growth areas, the federation is paving the way for a more vibrant and sustainable rugby ecosystem in Spain.

euroweeklynews.com

Ferrari F1 car unveiled FERRARI has become the latest team to launch their 2024 F1 car, with the covers being pulled off the SF-24. After teasing fans with footage of their new challenger being fired up for the first time at Maranello recently, the car has now been revealed to the world ahead of the upcoming season. The SF-24 is the 70th single-seater built by Ferrari to take part in the 75th Formula 1 championship. Above all, it is the first studied, designed and built entirely under the management of Frederic

Vasseur, who inherited Mattia Binotto’s job a year ago. It is a car that follows the 2023 Ferrari however, the team say it is a radically different car, with most of the secrets under the bodywork. The aim is to improve balance, reduce tyre wear, and above all increase the drivability, which had been one of the problems the drivers had been struggling with. “Ferrari is my life, I love this team and I will do

The new car has now been revealed.

€23 million fine

Tiger and Nike split Credit: Ian Peter Morton/Shutterstock.com

ONE of Spanish football’s most famous names has been order to pay €23 million by the National Court. The National Court has recently upheld a hefty £23 million fine against FC Barcelona for tax evasion, involving payments to players’ agents from 2012 to 2015. The fine, confirmed in 2020 by the Central Economic Administrative Court (TEAC), relates to the Personal Income Tax that the club failed to pay. This decision was made following a detailed review by the National Court, which found the club guilty of ‘tax simulation’ to gain unfair tax advantages. The court revealed that FC Barcelona engaged in elaborate schemes to avoid taxes. They were found to be compensating agents for non-existent services, effectively diverting part of the payment to the players. This allowed the club to benefit from a more favourable tax treatment than that which should have applied to the actual tran-

everything to make them win the World Championship. Seeing the new single-seater is always a unique feeling after all the work done during the year,” said Charles Leclerc. Carlos Sainz said: “Mine is not a normal situation to start the season, but the moment I put the helmet on I only feel the desire to go as fast as possible. Seeing the SF-24 is very special.” The public had already gathered from early morning on the Fiorano bridge, waiting for the new red car to be christened on the track but the real test will be on March 2 in the first of the 24 Grand Prix of the 2024 Formula 1 championship.

FC Barcelona stadium.

sactions. ‘That is, to enjoy tax advantages that do not correspond to the actual operation carried out,’ the ruling stated. The investigation concluded that the payments made to agents were, in fact, for the benefit of the players, rather than for services to the club. Despite FC Barcelona’s claims, the court found that the agents were acting in the interests of the players, not the club.

‘The Inspection reaches the conclusion that the relationship established between FC Barcelona and the agents only serves to cover the payments made by the club to the players,’ the ruling added. This ruling sends a clear message about the consequences of tax evasion in football, as FC Barcelona faces the financial and reputational fallout of their actions.

AFTER a long and lucrative 27-year partnership, Tiger Woods and Nike went their separate ways earlier this year. A new chapter has opened up for the champion golfer as he and sports giant Nike concluded their long-standing collaboration worth a staggering $500 million, on January 8. Tiger Woods is now embarking on a fresh venture by introducing his own clothing line, Sun Day Red, in collaboration with TaylorMade, a brand known for its golf equipment expertise. The upcoming Sun Day Red brand is set to cater to men, women, and children alike. Although the launch date for the first collection remains under wraps, the brand’s website teases ‘Coming May 01.’ Golf enthusiasts will soon witness the 15time Major champion adorned in attire distinctly different from his iconic red Nike shirt. But what exactly is the significance behind the new name? TaylorMade CEO David Abeles told the New York Times; ‘Sunday red is the colour that Mr Woods has made very famous on Sundays.’ Since their first collaboration in 1996, Tiger Woods and Nike have been synonymous, starting with a $40 million deal. Their partnership saw several renewals. In 2000, Woods renewed his deal with Nike for $85 million, making it the largest golf sponsorship deal at the time.