One www.gibraltarolivepress.com in a million GIBRALTARIANS have jumped out of aeroplanes, swam the channel and dug deep to raise more than £1million for Calpe House in 2016. At a fundraiser for the charity’s new London premises, Albert Poggio saluted the community’s incredible generosity. "Everybody has got behind the appeal," he said "In the year we stand at just over a million pounds. For a small community that’s a fantastic amount of money." The new premises are four times bigger than the original Calpe House, which opened in London’s Bayswater 30 years ago. The new Calpe House, which will care for vulnerable Gibraltarians in the English capital, due to open in June 2017. The then-Chief Minister Joe Bossano pledged to match every pound raised for Calpe House with a pound from the government when it opened. "Of the many things I’ve done, some good some bad, in the 44 years I’ve been serving our people, I think that Calpe House is one that’s been 100% good," said Bossano.
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Xmas ass A yuletide ode to
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Cueing up
World’s best pool players line up for Gib tournament Page 23
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FLOOD VICTIMS: Peter and Karen from Floria, Romanian Olguta and Brits Adrianne and Lisa Williamson
Expats launch a series of campaigns to help the victims of the worst floods for 27 years
Time for goodwill
A SERIES of campaigns have been launched to help victims of the worst local floods for quarter of a century. Big-hearted expats and Gibraltarians are digging deep in the run up to Christmas to help the hundreds of people who suffered in the deluge this month. These include a campaign launched by Sotogrande resident Sam Turner to raise funds to repatriate the body of Romanian flood victim Ionela Olguta Pantelimon. Another campaign is appealing to Costa del Sol residents to give the simple gift of time to help with their huge clean up operation. Homeless And Flood Victims Costa Del Sol need
as many pairs of hands as possible to clear and repair people’s homes before Christmas Day comes. Finally, customers of the much-loved Floria chiringuito in Manilva, have launched a petition pleading the Junta to allow its expat owners to restore it to its former glory after it was destroyed. The devastating floods left two people dead, hundreds homeless and dozens of properties and businesses destroyed along the Costa del Sol and in Gibraltar. It is estimated that the final damages bill will run into the hundreds of millions of euros. Flood special - Pages 6 and 7
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WRECKED: Floria chiringuito in Manilva
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December 21st - January 3rd 2017
My Mexican mountains ANDALUCIA looks set to land the starring role in Ridley Scott’s first ever Western. Dramatic vistas in the sierras around Ronda, Cadiz and Almeria are all being eyed up by the famed director, who has just visited the region.
TIME OF GIVING: Christmas gift appeal
Present tense
LA Linea charity Hogar Betania is calling for donations of Christmas presents for deprived local children. The homeless centre, which looks after vulnerable Spanish, British, Gibraltarians and foreign migrants, is asking locals to donate new toys for children aged one to 12 years old. Private individuals, companies, clubs and associations are all invited to participate. The toys will be distributed to the children over the Christmas period. Toys can be delivered to Hogar Betania, at 152 Calle Gibraltar behind La Linea hospital and larger amounts can be collected. For more information contact Carmen on c_moya_ langston@hotmail.com
Scott took to the skies in a helicopter to find areas with a turn of the century Mexican look that can provide the backdrop for his new film Wraiths of the Broken Land. An adaptation of the 2013 book by US author S.Craig Zahler, it follows the
tale of two brothers who attempt to rescue their two sisters forced into prostitution by an outlaw gang. Scott used Andalucia for his 2014 biblical epic Exodus: Gods and Kings in the Sierra Alhamilla and Pechina, in Almeria.
We’re all stunned Kayley
First ever gay marriage takes place on the Rock
HISTORIC: Happy couple’s landmark first kiss
Mr and Mr
HISTORY has been made in Gibraltar with the first-ever same-sex marriage taking place last week. Aaron Mills and Adrian Charles Triay-Dignam became the first gay couple to tie the knot.
The pair wed in front of 120 guests, including Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and had two best women at the ceremony. Picardo, who witnessed the historic event, said bringing about change like this, is exactly why he’s in politics.
MISS Gibraltar Kayley Mifsud has ‘incredibly’ failed to turn hearts at the Miss World contest in the USA. Up against 117 of the most beautiful women in the world, Kayley, wearing a dress by Gib designer Gail Howard, battled her way to to the final of the Sports Round, coming in the top 24. The beauty pageant was won by Stephanie Del Valle of Puerto Rico, 19, who was crowned by 2015 Miss World, Mireia Lalaguna in Maryland. Second place was secured by Yaritza Miguelina Reyes Ramirez of the Dominican Republic, followed by Miss Indonesia Natasha Mannuela.
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‘Slap in the face’
Westminster mission CHIEF Minister Fabian Picardo has vowed to a House of Lords committee that the Rock will not ‘dilute British sovereignty over Gibraltar’. Picardo was appearing along with Deputy Chief Minister Joseph Garcia and Attorney General Michael Llamas at an EU committee into Brexit. The Chief Minister invited committee members to Gibraltar to see how for themselves how the Picardo said: “I think the message of the people of Gibraltar has been entirely clear. “The people of Gibraltar are not going to agree to dilute British sovereignty over Gibraltar at all.” He added: “Freedom of movement across the land frontier is most important.” “During this period of uncertainty girls and boys from La Linea will be falling in love with girls and boys from Gibraltar. “That human interaction is what we must ensure Brexit does not get in the way of.”
FABIAN Picardo has been accused of being ‘out of touch’ for welcoming Brexit Secretary David Davis’ controversial comments on Gibraltar. The GSD insists the Chief Minister should be opposing Davis’s comments that he was ‘loath’ to push for a separate Brexit deal for the Rock last week (see No
Favours, page 17). They insist it is a ‘slap in the face’ for a much needed special deal for Gibraltar. Independent MP Marlene Hassan Nahon was more supportive of the government however, insisting the attack was ‘infantile’ at such as a ‘delicate stage’ of the negotiations over Brexit.
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
Cyber war battle GIBRALTAR Police have launched a new Cyber Security information sharing partnership. The initiative raises awareness of cyber threats and reduces their impact on Gibraltar’s financial services industry. Chief Minister Fabian Picardo hailed the move as a ‘step in the right direction’ for both the private and public sectors. “Keeping data safe and secure is part of the overall security of our community,” he said. A new summit, GibCyber, featuring a host of cyber security experts, will be held on June 13.
Act now!
Investigation urgently needed after 94% of doctors slam running of GHA
DEMAND: Hassan Nahon
AN overwhelming majority of doctors believe the Gibraltar Health Service is badly managed. Now independent MP Marlene Hassan Nahon is calling for a ‘wide-ranging’ government investigation into the GHA. It follows the disclosure of a report by the GSD showing 94% of 31 doctors and surgeons surveyed ‘disagreed’ or ‘strongly disagreed’ that ‘the GHA is well-managed’. A further 87% disagreed that the views of the medical staff were being respected. While the government has accused opposition MPs of ‘making mischief’ over the findings, Hassan Nahon insisted the survey was very worrying and needed to be investigated. “I call on the government to carry out a detailed, wide-ranging evidence-gathering exercise that encompasses the different sectors of the GHA,” she said “This worrying assessment of morale, as well as relationships with management, echoes many of the testimonies (I have heard) from disaffected and dissatisfied doctors.”
By Joe Duggan
The survey has now been posted live by the GSD opposition party, with one doctor since posting ‘so many resources are wasted due to poor management’. Another claimed ‘patient safety issues are never answered nor resolved, leaving doctors totally exposed’. During a heated parliamentary session in October, Hassan Nahon produced a letter from two surgeons accusing the GHA of ignoring red flags and taking advice from ‘corrupt, incompetent professionals’. She called on Neil Costa, Minister of Health, to ‘execute an action plan’ to get a full picture of staff morale within the GHA. Costa said he would ‘leave no stone unturned... to improve where we can the quality of the services we deliver.’ This week, a government spokesperson told the Olive Press it ‘doesn't wish to say anything further’ about Hassan Nahon’s call.
Cyber crime AN international cyber criminal gang has been smashed by European police forces, including the RGP. The four-year investigation targeted the group which caused hundreds of millions of euros of damage to online banking systems by sending infected emails to users in over 180 countries. Five individuals, described as ‘top level cybercriminals’ have been arrested. The Rock’s Economic Crime Unit received a letter of thanks for its work from German authorities leading the investigation. Since 2012, the gang had sent over one million infected emails a week to unsuspecting victims. Millions of private and business computer systems were also infected with malware, allowing the criminals to steal bank and email passwords.
Drug charge A 21-YEAR-OLD local man has been charged with possession and intent to supply cannabis resin. Nigel Davis of Castle Ramp was arrested in October when the drug squad raided his residence. Drugs worth around £3,100 and drug paraphernalia were seized during the raid.
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How the floods have given me more than they have taken, by ‘Wonder Woman’ Natalie Rose Kern, filing copy from the laundrette
The Rock’s only investigative
local newspaper
A campaigning, community newspaper, the Gibraltar Olive Press represents the local and expatriate communities working or living on the Rock with 10,000 copies distributed fortnightly.
OPINION A flood of goodwill December’s floods will go down in history as some of the worst in living memory. And with Christmas around the corner, time wise it couldn’t be worse for many families. It is heartwarming then to see the tragic weather event has prompted an outpouring of goodwill among the expat community. Those behind our three Christmas campaigns are proving that, no matter how bad a situation, good neighbours will never be washed away. We, as a community, have stepped in to help some of the most vulnerable flood victims, who would otherwise have had to pick up the pieces of their ruined lives themselves. If you can, join them in sparing a little time or money over the coming weeks to spread some festive cheer.
Emergency call DOCTORS and surgeons are held in understandably high esteem by all of us. Our lives are, literally, in their hands when we go under the knife. When a doctor talks, you listen. Which is why this month’s survey into GHA staff morale is deeply concerning: Some of the statistics are staggering (94% think the GHA is not well managed). Complaints about political games that ‘constantly interfere with patient’s medical management’ are hugely worrying. The government has argued that the survey is not complete, with only 31 doctors and surgeons responding (from a total of 81). But according to the GSD, every doctor on duty in the two days the survey was carried out responded. If the government wants a true reflection of all the views of the GHA staff then the answer is simple... It should take up Marlene Hassan Nahon’s suggestion of a thorough, fact-finding mission into the issue.
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December 21st - January 3rd 2017
WONDER WOMAN: Moment of humour AST month, my ‘glamorous’ Marbella lifestyle veered catastrophically off-track like a runaway train, taking with it my best friend, my home and my income in a series of unforeseen circumstances and cruel twists of fate I won’t elaborate on. With only five weeks to go until Christmas I was a jobless, penniless freelance writer and singlemother of no fixed abode – now there’s a Tinder resume if ever I had to write one. I woefully packed my belongings into boxes and put them in storage at my mother’s house. December 1 could not come quick enough. I’d survived the very worst month of my life, the only way was up! Determined to turn the tide and put an end to November’s misery and misfortune, I catalogued the triumphs and disasters of the past month online, with all the sarcasm and humour I could muster, ending the list with, ‘Twenty-nine days! It’s been wonderful, beautiful, tragic and magic. All great changes are preceded by chaos...Let’s have you, December! Gimme your best shot!’
L
Destruction
Three days later the heavens opened and, on the fourth, the Costa del Sol suffered the worst rains since 1989, with flash floods ravaging homes and vehicles and even claiming two lives. I don’t know who or what I was goading when I penned those now immortal, words ‘Gimme your best shot’ but someone was listening and they didn’t pussyfoot around! By morning it became apparent that most of Nueva Andalucia was under water and I braved the elements up to my mother’s house in the Golf Valley. Eskimo attire, head torch fixed and Wellington boots on, I descended slowly to the basement and my heart skipped several beats as I watched my whole life’s possessions floating and sinking in almost a metre of water. For the next five hours I went up and down those stairs like a woman possessed, arms laden with bundles of saturated clothing, soggy storage boxes and suitcases, sweating, swearing, shivering and shaking, rejoicing every time I recovered some small prized possession. There was no method to the madness; only an adrenalin-fuelled force that propelled me to keep going and save whatever the water had not yet destroyed. But I was fighting a losing
Silver linings
CLEAN UP: Drying out photos (above) and filing copy from laundrette (below) stood waist-deep in freezing water, clad in a tight, bright, Lycra superhero costume and water-filled Wellington boots, I conceded that both my strength and what was left of my sanity were finally leaving me! It took 12 hours to pump the water out of that wretched basement and then the real hard work began. We laboured solidly for nine days, friends and family who showed up with sympathetic faces and eager arms, lifting, carrying, retrieving, washing, saving and discarding. For every item we were able to salvage, another five had to be condemned to the skip. As I write this article, I’m sitting in a San Pedro launderette (I know, my life gets more glamorous by the minute) where I have five machine loads of washing on the go, and another five battle. Each time I wrapped my arms around a drying. It’s the first time I’ve stopped for a mocardboard box and attempted to lift it, it gave ment to contemplate the chaos of the past few way like a Chuckle Brothers comedy skit, except weeks…and I’m smiling broadly. there was only one Chuckle Brother and I wasn’t laughing. Restore In the midst of all the chaos, I chanced upon my Every evening this week, I’ve sat on the floor Wonder Woman costume and, in a moment of around the fire with my mother, recovering phofolly (or enlightenment!) I thought, “If not now, tographs from old family albums, laying them then when?”. out to dry with painstaking care as we pore over My oddball humour was persisting but, as I the past: my great-aunt and uncle in Burma in 1916; my great-grandfather, smiling proudly in his officer’s uniform as he departed for World War II; my beautiful, blonde late grandmother sporting a sari in front of the Taj Mahal in the 1960s ... ‘What a fox!’ I exclaimed and we laughed …and we cried. We managed to restore and decipher letters, and read them out loud, and there was such delight to be found in recapturing the magic rival. and mystery of those bygone eras. Meanwhile During their visit they will want to see the my mother unearthed her opera records and damaged items. subjected the neighbourhood to La Traviata at If this is not possible, as the items have had to full whack! be removed, they will request to see pictures In 10 short days, I’ve grown closer to my mother of them instead. than I’ve ever been before, as well as renewing If an urgent repair has had to be undertaken a closer bond with all of my brothers and sisters. before their visit, keep the official receipt of Childhood memories came flooding back, old repair to give to the surveyor. jokes and nicknames were revived, there were The Consortium will also cover expenses if moments of sadness, and great tenderness your property is uninhabitable and loss of among us – but more than anything, there was earnings if a business has been effected. laughter. Vehicle damage Few people on the coast survived this latest Surveyors will want to see the car in a garage. flood intact. Almost everyone I know was affectThey will request the name and address and ed somehow and lost something. But I’ve lost telephone number of it and will go along to nothing, nothing that matters…and I’ve gained assess the damages. so much. When satisfied, they will either authorise the I didn’t set out looking for silver linings but garage to repair the vehicle or they will make they’ve carried me through. I found out who my a payment according to the book value of the friends are (and how lucky I am)! I rekindled vehicle at the time of the loss. relationships, recovered my sense of humour A copy of the car papers in the insured names and regained my passion for writing. I learned will be requested along with a copy of your so much more about my family and their history. passport, and bank account details including And I healed. More than half of my belongings the IBAN number. are gone and I’m lighter, I’m freer, I’m liberated. If the car does get written off it is very imporI’m not going to tempt fate again by signing off tant to make sure the baja (de-registering) of with another ‘Gimme your best shot!’ because the vehicle is completed either with the trafI think this year has taken all I had to give. I’ll fic authorities or the scrap yard so you do not just say, ‘Roll on 2017! I think I’m finally ready continue to get billed for the road taxes. for you!’
How to claim after a flood Following the widespread floods, many affected people are now looking to make an insurance claim. When these types of disasters happen it is the El Conscorio de Compensación de Seguros (Consortium), a government body, that has to assess and pay out on the losses. Entitlement To be entitled to a pay out, you must have had a Spanish insurance policy in force for longer than seven days. The reason for this is that a small amount of your premiums paid to your insurance company go to the consortium in order to cover you against natural disasters such as flooding. The process To register a claim, you must present your NIE number, confirmation of the address affected and your Spanish bank account number including the IBAN number. Once the claim is opened, one of the surveyors from the consortium will make contact and come along and look at the damages. Upon their visit they will request to see a copy of your insurance policy, the receipt of payment and the terms and conditions of the policy. They will also want to see proof of your bank account number reflected against your name and a copy of your last IBI (financial tax) receipt. Property and personal belongings Try to make an approximate indication of the monetary value of your claim prior to their ar-
Advice from Jacqui Caplen of The Insurance Centre
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Fe at u r e
Fundraiser campaigns
Food for thought
A PETITION has been launched to help a flood-wrecked chiringuito get a license. Almost 500 people have signed the Save Chiringuito Floria campaign on Change.org, which was set up after the December floods ripped the popular Manilva restaurant in half. Due to a tragic Catch-22 Dutch owner Peter Nette, who married there this year, is unable to repair it, despite being open for decades. The petition is begging Susana Diaz, president of the Junta, to grant the necessary license so it can be rebuilt and reopened. A law passed in 2014 insists that all chiringuitos must have a licence, but some owners have struggled to obtain them due to a mountain of red tape and backlog of businesses attempting to get them. To sign it, go to www.change.org/p/susana-d%C3%ADaz-salvar-save-chiringuitofloria
A night in hell Expat family who almost drowned in the floods have lost everything
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the key figures present of - Rain warning issued for Costa delpast Soland tonight (14,385) the Costa del Crime - 3872 views
Page Views: 502,633 Torremolinos to open Anda-
lucia’s biggest shopping and leisure
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EXCLUSIVE By Chloe Glover
AN expat mother has revealed how she and her daughter were forced to swim out of their kitchen window to survive the worst floods in 27 years. Adrianne and her daughter Lisa Williamson were forced to paddle to safety when an early morning deluge left them ‘up to their necks’ in water in Fuengirola. They only escaped thanks to their two dogs, who alerted them when water from a burst river bank began to pour into their bungalow in Calle Membrillo, Albequilla. They are among hundreds of families who have been left with nothing after the torrential rains of December 3 and 4, which caused the worst floods since 1989. “It was like being in hell,” Adrianne told the Olive Press. “If it wasn’t for two of my dogs who jumped on my bed at 5am I fear we could have drowned,” continued the 54-year-old mother, from Fife, in Scotland. “They woke me up because they were soaking wet. “I got out of bed to see why and stepped into about one inch of water. At first I thought the roof had leaked but then I realised the whole bungalow was flooding. “I screamed to Lisa to wake up and within 10 minutes the water was up to our necks. “It was terrifying and I thought we were going to die. We tried to round up the dogs but then had to get out. “We tried to leave through the doors but were unable to due to the force of the water coming in from the river. “So we had to escape through the kitchen window with some of the dogs following us. “We then had to break down the gate at the front of our house to get to safety.” Everything Adrianne and Lisa owned was destroyed in the floods. Even worse, they have had to move back into their waterlogged home as they have nowhere else to go. “We had to sleep in our house on a bed frame the night after the flood because we had nowhere else to go,” she continued. “We’ve got absolutely nothing. All our possessions worth money and sentimental items like photographs have gone.
Each print issue of the Olive Press can be read in its entirety on www.theolivepress.es And our site is updated December 21st - January 3rddaily 2017with the latest news, making it one of Spain’s most visited news websites.
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DEVESTATED: Lisa and Adrianne Williamson (inset) and their ruined home
Flood samaritans
AN ARMY of volunteers are desperately needed to help families left devastated by the floods. Kind-hearted businesses are also needed to do their bit for those living in stricken areas such as Coin, Cartama and Fuengirola, whose homes were ruined in the recent deadly Malaga deluges. Up to 300 litres of rain per square metre fell in just 73 hours, leaving two people dead and causing millions of euros of damage The call to action has been made by a group of British expats who came together on the Help The Homeless And Flood Victims Costa Del Sol Facebook page. The group has set up a fund and been working day and night in the clear up but are struggling to cope with the problem on their own. “We need as many people as possible because the local councils are not doing enough”, said flood volunteer Jackie Quick-Rice, who lives in Alhaurin el Grande. “No one can actually understand the extent of the devastation unless they come here”, she said. “What we need foremost is people who can help clean out the houses. “We are still finding people living in homes that are full of mud because they have nowhere else to go. I found an old man who was sleeping on the floor of his ruined home - it’s awful. “We have been clearing up as best we can so that people who have nowhere else to go can feel as comfortable as possible. Anyone who can spare time to help should ring Jackie on 60312 2596. A fundraising appeal has also been set up for those unable to donate their time or services. People can make a donation by visiting www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/matt-wright “I didn’t have insurance either, so we can’t claim for anything. “But we have been since to have been given free accommodation for a week at Hotel Club de la Costa.” Adrianne praised the work of the volunteers from the Help the Homeless and Flood Victims group. “They have been working really hard to try
get our house back to normal and I don’t know what we would have done without them. “There are around 50 homes on our street and most of them have been flooded. “I’ve been here 10 years and the river has never burst its banks while I’ve been here. “My neighbours say that it has only happened once before in living memory, 70 years ago, but that this time was much worse.”
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Help get her home GENEROUS expats are splashing out to ensure that the body of a Romanian flood victim is repatriated. A fund has so far raised hundreds towards the €7,000 needed to send Ionela Olguta Pantelimon back to her native village of Braila. Set up by Sam Turner, from Sotogrande, it will go directly to the family, who do not have enough money for the flight. The 23-year-old prostitute (left) drowned in the basement of brothel Club California, in Estepona. She became trapped in the basement of the building on December 4, the day the Costa del Sol saw its worst flooding since 1989. Turner, 30, was moved into action after learning that Olguta’s parents were unable to give her a decent burial back home.
“I just think that it is heart-breaking situation”, said Turner, who launched the fundraiser on the Just Giving website. “It is terrible enough that the parents lost her daughter, without the added trauma of not being able to afford to bring her back home so they can bury her near to them. “I have managed to get the bank details of her parents, so will send all the money raised by January 16 straight to them.” The money will be added to the 3,500 total promised by the Romanian Consulate in Sevilla for the service. To donate, go to www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/the-flood-victimsof-costa-del-sol?utm_id=66&utm_ term=38kVXNg4y
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C A M P O DE GDecember I B RA21stLTA R 3rd 2017 - January
8 NEWS IN BRIEF
Blooming marvellous A PARK is to get a huge makeover in La Linea. 200 trees and 500 ornamental plants will be planted in el Parque Princesa Sofia throughout January.
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A MEMORIAL concert in honour of the late flamenco star Paco de Lucia will take place in Algeciras. Held at the Florida Theatre, hundreds of guests are expected to watch performances from guitarists Jose Bandera and Antonio Sanchez as well as dance acts. The concert ‘Memoria de Paco’ on December 21 marks what would have been de Lucia’s 69th birthday in his former home town.
Boom town ALGECIRAS now has a larger population than Cadiz. A total of 120, 601 people now live in the Campo de Gibraltar port town, against only 118,919 in the capital of the province.
Festive feeling A NATIVITY scene fair will keep festive cheer alight in January. Over 300 top nativity scene makers will showcase their belens at the two day event in Algeciras on January 14 and 15.
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For Paco!
Toot one’s horn HUNDREDS of classic cars will zoom into Sotogrande for next year’s gran prix. Motors from the 1920s to 1960s will take part in the contest from May 24 to 28.
Spanish gangs snatch hundreds of kilos of drugs back from police THIEVES have stolen over 1,700 kilos of drugs from police in Andalucia since 2008, it has been revealed. It comes despite Sevilla police building a special bunker to guard drugs seized from criminals following the theft of 154 kilos of heroin and cocaine in 2008.
Bunker busters
Victim
But police in Cadiz, Sevilla, Cadiz and Huelva continue to fall victim to the gangs with health and safety officers insisting the bunker is not secure enough to store seized drugs. The Guardia Civil has been forced to keep the drugs on its premises until they are destroyed Authorities insist the bunker, which was finished three years ago, will soon be ready to store the drugs. This year, security forces have seized 378,702 kilos
C
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NABBED: Gangs seize back drugs
of hash, with 298,734 kilos (78% of the total) held in Andalucia.
A further 1,869 kilos of cocaine have been impounded this year alone.
Speaking out
A BOXING Day protest has been called to demand the release of political prisoners in Western Sahara. The Campo branch of the Asociacion de Amigos del Pueblo Saharaui are behind the ‘peaceful’ demonstration, which will take place at noon at a still undisclosed location in Algeciras.
All at sea
Through it, they hope to raise awareness of Western Saharan activists, who they say have been jailed for speaking out against Moroccan rule of the disputed state. The territory was formally occupied by Spain until it relinquished control to Morocco and Mauritiana in 1975.
ELEVEN people have been arrested in local ports as police crack down on people smuggling and drug trafficking. Officers swooped on suspects at addresses in La Linea, Tarifa, Sotogrande and Algeciras, seizing 12 vessels. Police believe some of the boats may have been used to ferry illegal migrants into Spain. Many of those arrested are suspected of using fake ID documents, fraud and theft. It is believed they were paid to stand in as the vessels’ owners despite not having the required documentation. Police targeted yacht clubs and marinas around the Campo during the operation.
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la cultura
IT’S the party to end all parties in 2016. And this year, Miss Gibraltar will lead the official New Year’s Eve countdown celebrations. Kayley Mifsud will join former Radio Gibraltar broadcaster James Neish in Casemates Square just before midnight as Gibraltar counts down the clock to 2017. A DJ set kicks off festivi-
A JEWISH family is fighting a BE Spanish museum for ‘APPY! a priceless painting they were forced to surrender to the Nazis. Lilly Cassirer and her husband surrendered Camille Pissarro’s impressionist masterpiece ‘Rue Saintour app now and HonoreDownload dans l’apres-midi. Effet debegin pluie’ to the Reich enjoying the best Spanish ahead news of the holocaust in on the go. 1939, but their heirs - who have been involved in a legal battle for 16 years want it returned.
Wrongs
Branching out
FESTIVE: Reads
FESTIVE revellers are being asked to guess the number of books Gibraltar Cultural Services used to build this Christmas Tree. The tree is situated in the entrance lobby of John Mackintosh Hall, with entry forms available at reception from 9am to 5pm. The winner will receive a copy of Gibraltarian artist Christian Hook’s new book. The closing date is Friday, January 6 with entrants to be informed when the book count will take place.
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what’s on
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hristmas raffle, December 22
Ice skating lessons, spa gifts and food are all up for grabs in this Macmillan nurses fundraiser. Tickets cost £5 and the draw will take place at Cybar at 8pm.
B
oxing Day run, December 26
Final countdown! B DJs, Miss Gibraltar and live music to see in New Year’s Eve on the Rock
The piece, created in 1897 and worth well in excess Olive Press of €40 The million, has been held at the Thyssen-Bornemisza museum in in MaTOP for news Spain! drid since 1993. The museum argues it has legal ownership, but lawyer for the family David Boies disagrees. He said: “This is an issue GUEST: Miss Gib that is critically important not only in terms of trying ties from 10.30pm with to right terrible wrongs The Voice’s Jill Mary Coothat had their origin in the per singing from 11pm til Nazi persecution of the 11.50pm. Jews but also to establish At midnight a fireworks principles that are very display will light up the important to what's hap- Gibraltar skyline before a live concert from local pening now in the world.”
Christmas cracker
AN official Christmas charity single in aid of GBC Open Day 2016 is set to be be released. The single, So Glad It’s Christmas, can be ordered on Itunes, Amazon and Google Play. The festive record features music and lyrics by local musician Guy Valarino, who also provides vocals along with Nolan Frendo, Simon Dumas and Dani Fa. “We’re looking for all of Gibraltar’s help to make this a hit -
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
share with your friends locally, in the UK and beyond... and help us raise funds for local good causes, whilst showing your support for local music artists!” the band said. “Our thanks to everyone involved for sharing their time, creativity and talent with us.” The band’s video was produced by Stephen Prera. All proceeds from the single are in aid of the GBC Open Day fund.
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Work off your Christmas dinner at this popular annual event, which will start at Casemates Square. Runners can enter into either the 10km or 2.8km races.
oxing Day Polar Bear Swim, December 26
band Frontiers, featuring the Dumas brothers, until 2am. The final hour will feature a DJ set from El Deni as revellers say goodbye to 2016 - and hello to a hangover or two. The events are being organised by Fresh Entertainment along with Gibraltar Cultural Services on behalf of the Ministry of Culture.
Brave the waters in this Rock festive tradition. Money will be raised for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
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ew Year’s Eve celebrations, December 31
Join the party at Casemates Square and make some new friends for 2017. A programme of entertainment will begin at 10.30pm and will end at 2.30am.
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Nevada
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ll at fu nt an e e ut Se lem abo com pp all ia. su w. luc w w da
ll about ierra Nevada A S A Sierra
theolive11 www.llwww.gibraltarolivepress.com AXARQUIA the olive press - October 30 - November 12 2014 about
December 21st- January 3rd 2017
Spain’s Costa del Snow turns flood-sick piste-off hack Chloe Glover (right) into a ski junkie
W
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inter onderland
HE side of a mountain 2,100 metres above sea level doesn’t sound like the most obvious location to find sun. And for a frigo-phobe who moved to Andalucia on the promise of year-round rays, being packed off to Spain’s premier ski resort was not the travel assignment I had in mind. Add to the mix a limb-eye co-ordination akin only to Bambi’s or the first efforts of the Cool Runnings team and you can see why I have never swapped my weekends by the beach for one in the snow.
But, s’no joke, just two days of snow-based fun and brilliant weather in Andalucia’s only ski resort of Pradollano was enough to turn this pisteoff hack into a ski holiday superfan. Stepping out of our car into glorious sunshine was the first welcome surprise after a fortnight of torrential rain on the so-called Costa del Sol. My colleague Laurence and I gleefully brushed the dust off our sunglasses, knowing that our home towns of Marbella and Estepona were facing the prospect of yet another damp weekend.
We hiked to the lookout point perched at the resort’s summit and gazed down at the snow-topped chalet rooftops - a Christmas card scene sparkling in the dazzling light. But it was the sight of hundreds of zippy skiers zig-zagging down the majestic white peaks towering above us at 3300m that really took our breath away. It’s hard to believe that 106,8 kms of pistes and 124 runs (75% open in mid December) lie just two hours from Marbella and half an hour from Granada. It truly lives up to the marketing hype as a place where you can ski in the morning and sunbathe on the coast, pina colada in hand, by the afternoon. Madrileños drive the four-hour distance in their droves, while Portuguese powder addicts are more than happy to travel cross peninsular. Expert skiers treasure the snow which, particularly in springtime, is as soft as icing sugar and quite unlike the tightly-packed ice found in many European resorts. With 60 easy and very easy runs descending alongside the 57 hardContinues on next Page
12 1212 2014 12 the olive press - October 30 - November 12www.theolivepress.es www.gibraltarolivepress.com 12
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ll about
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Sierra Nevada December 21st - January 3rd 2017
White washed
in comparison to some of France’s long-established resorts like Chamonix and Courchevel. But perhaps its success is not altogether surprising, est red and black ones, it is clear why the resort has considering its many draws. such catch-all appeal. Along with accessibility, you’ll get more bang for your Some ski fans even brave it in bikinis for the last buck. day of the season in May (la bajada en bikini), an While many other European resorts remain the preunmissable occasion charged with champagne, he- serve of the rich, the Sierra Nevada continues to be donism and near-nudity. pocket-friendly. “Constant improvements and an ability to produce This has been helped by a recent €3.1 million cash a lot of snow are just two of the injection from the Andalucian tourist strengths of our resort”, said board, which means the price for spokesman Santi Sevilla, who The Sierra Nevada passes at peak time has risen by has been working at Cetursa, the only €2 in the last five years to €47. continues to be Passes are a snip of those at resort’s administrator, for seven years. France’s big daddy resorts, espepocket-friendly “Add to that the arrival of the Freecially when considering the availabilstyle Ski World Championship and compared to other ity of generous low season, spring Snowboarding here next March and promotional tariffs. and the affordability of ski passes European resorts Going midweek during the snow and you can see why it is one of season can cost as little as €35.50 the most attractive in Europe. per day, while seven-day passes can “One of my favourite new additions is the Pista del be bought as cheaply as €187. Mar in the heart of Borreguiles. Package promotions for ski, snowboard and clothing “This has been created to make a fun and safe area hire help keep prices down, while accommodation where families and beginners can enjoy the snow.” can also be very reasonably priced, especially at Santi is far from the only skier smitten by Pradol- lodgings located a little higher up in the hill resort. lano’s charms. Turning to the skiing itself, the Sierra Nevada thrives Today one million people visit the resort each year. on its all-abilities appeal, with the majority of the That is an impressive achievement considering it 124 runs at beginner or intermediate level: 19 green was only constructed in 1964, making it a newbie runs, 41 blues, 50 reds and 14 black and orange Continues from previous page
Festive fun
MAGICAL: Three kings on the slopes and (below) snowy Pradollano
T
he resort is one of the most festive places to be in Spain, and the Spaniards know it, as they descend in their droves for Christmas and New
Year. ‘Nochebuena’ or Christmas eve, when the Spaniards celebrate the festive season with a huge family meal and lashings of turron, is usually a sell out. Meanwhile ‘nochevieja’, or New Year’s Eve, where massive screens show the countdown in Madrid’s iconic Puerta del Sol, with grapes galore, is a riot. For the eve of the Reyes on Jan 5 the three kings duly arrive on skis. Kids will love it. Carnival, from February 6-14, also sees a mass arrival for the fancy dress competi-
t i o n , snow-sport contests and spectacles from Granada University.
www.theolivepress.es 13 13 the olive press - October 30 13 - November 12 2014 www.gibraltarolivepress.com 13 December 21st - January 3rd 2017 (the scariest). Laurence wasted no time testing out the routes, carving paths alongside both pros and groups of all-ages beginners who were being put through their paces by experienced instructors. Families enjoyed themselves side by side with big groups of skiers, such as the 30-odd, 20something American marines from Rota naval base on the Cadiz coast we bumped into (almost literally). “I’m not very experienced but really have enjoyed myself”, said one of them, Jonathan Richards from Louisiana. “I’ve only ever been skiing before in the States. It’s only early season but I’d give the skiing eight out of 10. “I love the atmosphere here too. “It’s a lot more chilled out and friendly than the places I’ve been to before.” But there is much more to the Sierra Nevada than sliding down it on two planks of wood. You can tackle it by toboggan and snowboard, or on a snowshoe hike (akin to walking with a tennis racket strapped to each foot). Family-oriented Mirlo Blanco park gives kids their adrenalin fix as they brave the star attraction, Trineo Ruso (Russian sled), which whisks riders around a several hundred metre track peppered with tight turns and a 550 metre descent. A magic carpet slide and bouncy castles can also be found in the zone, along with mountains of snow for DIY fun. And if that sounds like too much action, you can always swap icy snow for a hot steam bath and indulge in some me-time at one of several hotel spas. All year round, the Sierra Nevada is paradise for fresh air fiends. After ‘the melt’, the resort becomes a paradise for walkers, wildlife lovers and mountain bikers. Get the best views by taking advantage of the ski lifts, which in summer carry both people and bikes to the summit to enjoy breathtaking routes back
down. Borreguiles, the resort’s impressive ski bowl, boasts a bike park in the hotter months. Youngsters can test their strengths in the mini-olympiads zone or race against each other on the pedal car track. Guided dawn and dusk walks and a bumper running and cycling race calendar are a magnet keeping the resort busy 12 months of the year. Awesome apres ski Back in Pradollano at the end of an actionpacked day, revellers congregate at the various bars, like Bar Ski and Crescendo, around the resort to share their successes and failures with joyful abandon. Meanwhile, friendly down-to-earth restaurants, like Casablanca and La Mar Sala, do not mock their customers with ski-high prices. You can still find a cana for under €2, and tapas for €1.50 even on weekends at some places. La Antorcha is a skier favourite thanks to its plentiful, juicy steaks at lip-smackingly good prices. Head to the drinking holes in the Edificio Mont Blanc centre or Plaza de Pradollano for oodles of atmosphere at pocket-friendly prices. Hostels Yeti and Alburgue Interjoven are amongst the budget accommodation options and they don’t skimp on warm, clean rooms. The same can be said for the wealth of self-catering apartments dotted around the resort. Those with extra cash to splash can turn up the luxury at a cosy Alpine Hotel. Places like the Sol Melia and Kenia Nevada have spas for soothing all the aching muscles you never knew you had. Meanwhile, some of the finest haute mountain cuisine can be had at these giddy altitudes. Try Ci Vediamo, in particular, as well as stylish dishes at Tito Tapas and La Bodeguita. And of course, nothing goes down better at this time of year than a steaming glass of tinto de Invierno - spiced, mulled wine. Salud!
13 www.theolivepress.es 13
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December 21st - January 3rd 2017
14 14 the olive press - October 30 - November 12 2014 14www.theolivepress.es www.gibraltarolivepress.com 14 ll about
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Sierra Nevada
F you were thinking that all the Sierra Nevada had to offer was raclette and gluvine, think again. The depth of quality and variety of restaurants in Pradollano is almost as good as nearby Granada and as good as many popular towns around the region. Every year new restaurants open on the slopes, making the existing band of eateries up their game. Few places show this improvement as well as Ci Vediamo, which is nearly a decade old. Run by a hip young team under Stevie Silva, a professional snowboarder, and his girlfriend Luna Coronado, every year a raft of new exciting dishes are added to the menu. The most exciting this season is his trio of cerviches, each with its own unique flavour, and including my favourite of razorsliced scallops in a Bloody Mary sauce. On a Michelin-starred trip, you will also enjoy a tartare of prawns and a sashimi of tuna, not to mention fabulous duck rolls with ginger, guacamole, tuna and soy sauce. And let’s not forget the ‘gambas pil pil’ hamburgers, the Nero spaghetti with champagne sauce and king prawns, and some of the best pizzas around, including the original Iberian ham and baby broad beans number. The wine list is also original, hand picked by Stevie and with some exclusive rarities, such as the Fonte dei oro, which only produces 700 bottles a year, and at 18 euros a snip. Further plaudits go to Luis and Javier at Tito Luigi, who keep improving their two Italian joints, in line with their hip opening of Tito Tapas, two years ago. It’s a cool spot with great food and wine and perfectly complements their other places, which are always packed at night, serving up fantastic food, including pizzas, salads and pasta dishes, with my current top pick: the amazing squid-ink spaghetti
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December 21st - January 3rd 2017
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
Sierra Nevada has so much more than raclette and gluvine, writes Jon Clarke
Munching for moguls The historic photos add to the atmosphere (as does a framed Olive Press article!) and the heart-warming soul food is always excellent, and includes stews, lentils as well as prawns wrapped in potato with a soya mayonnaise and lovely lamb chops with whisker-thin wild asparagus. As stalwarts go, few top busy Antorcha, which sits by the Kenia Nevada hotel. Run by Antonio and Maite for a decade, each table gets its own TALENTS: Team at Ci Vediamo and ‘sausage tree’, while its speciality Tito Luigi of the house is the ‘hot and spicy platter’ on which you can cook with prawns. In particular punters love the historic your own rump steaks, up to 400gr. ‘cave’ at the back, which counts dozens Newer and really leading the charge of famous guests including the former food-wise is La Mar Sala, where Carlos has created an ambient spot, perfect for king. The photos are there to prove it. Another long term fixture is Bodega tapas and wines by the glass. Casablanca run by Jose Carlos Villan- This prime spot by the Melia hotel is norueva, who grew up on the slopes, with mally filled to the rafters and counts on his father opening one of the first hostals some excellent wines by the glass and the very best seafood from Motril, includin the 1960s.
TASTY: Tapas at Muralla and Bodegas Mazon
ing boquerones, cigalas and conchas finas. A genuine find. Meanwhile, meat-lovers will seriously rate La Muralla, run by brothers Luciano and Gonzalo, which has some of the resort’s best tapas and wines by the glass. Apart from the amazing steaks, a real highlight are the ‘tostas’, which come in various guises and a milhoja of foie gras. And don’t forget the brothers’ other bustling spot Las Gondalas, right in the heart of the town and perfect for some apres ski light bites, a hot drink or a beer. The cool sounds playing to the terrace attract a cool crowd and you will struggle to find a seat on many days. Another excellent place overlooking the
slopes is Tia Maria, which has a good mix of dishes and is a great place for breakfast. Run by Carlos, the brother of Tito Luigi’s Javier, this is an institution and place to while away the day. For coffee, breakfast, and in fact just about everything, Vertical is hard to be beaten and also has a great range of snacks and light bites, including hot dogs for the British clientele. For seafood look no further than La Lonja, which is a great place to eat seafood and the selection of marisco is impressive and there are always fresh lobsters waiting to be cooked. Three decades serving skiers, boss Antonio began life as a waiter in Granada, and counts another restaurant in Sanlucar de Barrameda and unsurprisingly stocks its famous langoustines. Bodegas Mazon is also a real gem, tucked away at the back of Edificio Mont Blanc (see box right) and with an amazing wood oven and the most authentic ski resort ambience. Next door, Bar Ski will not disappoint if you want to have the real mccoy, local Granadino food and banter. This is THE place to hang out and have fun and the owner, Michi, is, as they say in Spanish ‘a crack’. For fast food and hamburgers - and football on a big screen, including Premiership games - look no further than Telesilla Burger, which is a popular place for locals and expats alike. Cleverly designed using ski lifts as tables, you can get everything here at excellent prices, thanks to clever boss Maria Rosales Donaire, who does not miss a trick.
Ci Vediamo
The Sierra Nevada’s Most Elegant Restaurant
Michelin Trained chef esTeban silva, Produces classic iTalian sTyle dishes WiTh a Modern TWisT
oPen 7 days a WeeK Monday To sunday 12.00-16.00/ 20.00-24.00
| Find Us on Google Maps with 360º degree view |
Plaza Andalucía, Edf. Salvia s/n · Pradollano · Tel. 958 480 856 · civediamosn@gmail.com
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Small improvement BE ‘APPY! UNEMPLOYMENT in Andalucia has fallen by 2% over the last 12 months to 28.5%, with 55% of under25s currently without work. Download our app now and Mega resort begin enjoying the best Spanish
GIBRALTAR wants to retain freedom of movement USnews developer on the go. Cordish and single market access Companies is planpost-Brexit, Chief Minisning to build Spain’s ter Fabian Picardo told the biggest resort on the BBC. outskirts of Madrid, But, speaking to Nick Robinvesting €2.2 bn in inson on the Andrew Marr a hotel, restaurants, show, Picardo stated the theatre, gaming area Rock would choose a ‘redand a circus. white-and-blue Brexit’ joint sovereignty with The Olive Press over Spain. The GSLP leader believes Boom time TOP for news in Spain!Gibraltar could secure a different deal from the EU to SPAIN is on track for a rethe rest of the UK to ensure cord year of overseas tourjobs on either side of the ists, with official forecasts border were not harmed. predicting 74 million for“I think it’s going to be a eigners will have visited the differentiated deal for difcountry by the end of 2016. ferent sectors of industry and parts of the United Kingdom,” he said. Wide web “It’s going to be a multi-faceted deal and one of those THE Internet market facets is going to be Gibralin Spain is now worth tar.” €20,000 million per year, He added: “Different parts according to data conof the rules that are today sumer group Media-tics. the European rules apply
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
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December 21st - January 3rd 2017
But Picardo wants to retain freedom of movement and single market access
FACING UP: Picardo’s Brexit wish in a different way to Gibraltar. For example, we are not part of the common customs union. We have a hard border with Spain because we chose in 1972 not
to access the single market in goods. “Already there is a different deal for Gibraltar.” Picardo had travelled to London for a series of high-
profile media interviews and an appearance at a House of Lords committee. And while many in the UK feared the effects of immigration, Gibraltar’s size and makeup meant the issue of movement of people was totally different for the Rock, he said. “When you talk about freedom of movement in the UK post-Maastricht you are talking about immigration and the right of establishment in the UK,” he said. “Freedom of movement in Gibraltar means travelling in and out on the day, because people don’t tend to establish themselves in Gibraltar, but 10,000 people come from Spain every day to work in Gibraltar. “That makes us the second biggest employer in Andalucia.” He added: “It’s a red, white and blue Brexit for us. We are not going to change our views on whether we remain British or not.”
High flying GIBRALTAR International Airport has hit new heights by welcoming over 500,000 travellers in one year for the first time. Between January and the end of November, 508,225 passengers passed through the airport, a 95,141 increase on the same period in 2015. November was another record month, with 39,351 people departing or taking off from the Rock, a 16.2% increase on November 2015. Terence Lopez, Air Terminal Director at Gibraltar International Airport, said: “Breaking the half a million passenger mark was going to be a milestone in the history of the development of commercial development of Gibraltar International Airport and is a clear sign of our progress and capability.” The 500,000 figure was passed on Thursday, November 25 when an easyJet flight departed for Gatwick Airport.
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PRESSURE to live in the city is taking its toll on the country’s rural property market. THE government and opin lieu of Picardo answerSpain is currently experi- posing MPs will meet on ing tabled official Parliaencing a two-speed mar- January 23 to discuss mentary questions on the Download our app now and No.6’s £300 million housket where prices continue subject in September. to rise begin in cities and fall Spanish in ing estate loan. Picardo said: “The financial enjoying the best the countryside. Chief Minister Fabian services community has news on the New research bygo. the Span- Picardo invited GSD MP GSD criticising Picardo for date has now been set to been highly complimentary ish property portal Ide- Roy Clinton and indepen- not meeting earlier to dis- meet the Government’s of the terms agreed in realista reveals that both dent MP Marlene Hassan cuss it. technical advisors and I spect of this money. rural and urban markets Nahon for the talks. Clinton, shadow minister look forward to meeting “I trust that outside of the began a post-crisis recov- The loan, secured against for public finance, said: them and finding out more Parliamentary fray it will ery in 2013. six housing estates, was “Despite the delay in or- about the terms of the be possible for this to be However, since the sec- announced in this sum- ganising the meeting, I £300 million loan.” recognised by the memond half of 2015, they mer’s budget, with the naturally welcome that a The meeting was arranged bers of the Opposition.” have gone in different diThe Press rections, withOlive city prices rising 1.7% year-on-year TOP for news Spain! in November while inthe national average for rural areas has plummeted by A BANK has been ordered to refund count prior to planned construction in 4.3%. €227,000 to a British couple who un- 2003. Fernando Encinar, head wittingly bought an illegal apartment. But three years later when they came to of research at Idealista exA Malaga court judge said Banco Popu- sign the deeds, they were told that their plains: “The study makes lar was responsible for making the pay- home could not be finished as it flouted clear that markets that are ment to the unnamed pair, who found planning regulations. attracting the most interout too late that their dream property in The wrongdoing was uncovered by est and can count on solLos Lagos de Santa María Golf in Mar- Marbella’s caretaker government, vent demand are already bella did not have planning permission. brought in to investigate widespread rising in price, whilst This is because the bank hosted the ac- planning corruption while Jesus Gil, other areas, mostly rural, count of crooked developer Giovanni the town’s mayor, was in power. can’t manage to raise inPiero Montaldo, who was later convict- Lawyers acting for the Brits won the terest from buyers, and ed of bribery in Spain’s wide-reaching case through citing Ley 57, which gives are being forced to conMalaya Case. buyers protection if the developer does tinue dropping prices to The couple put a deposit in Piero’s ac- not complete and deliver the build. HAPPY RETURN: Home deposits close sales.”
Top politicians to weigh up £300 million housing estate deal
Brits bad bank
Water away
Floods and how to plan for them (I know, ‘Stable doors’ and ‘Horses’ come to mind) IT droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven. Upon the place beneath. It is twice blest: It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.’ So wrote Shakespeare in The Merchant of Venice. Well, there has been a little too much blessing in recent days! Even the crofters in the storm-tossed Western Isles of Scotland would acknowledged that we had more than ‘a wee drop of rain’ on the Costa del Sol over the first two weekends of December. The first weekend was a welcome soaking for the parched earth and everyone, especially EcoPepe our organic farmer near Álora, was happy to see it. But on the following weekend, the heavens opened and stayed open for about 36 hours, hitting the western Costa del Sol between Mijas and Manilva particularly hard. With the land saturated from before and the underlying layer still rock hard from drought, the water had nowhere to go except downhill. The fact that houses and roads and pipes and wires and anything manmade was in the way merely meant that it went around, under or through, gathering soil, debris, trees, cars, furniture and anything else in its path. Walls tumbled down, houses were undermined, sewers blocked, internal spaces flooded and possessions destroyed; the list is endless, the costs still being counted. So, how to avoid the flood affecting you? If your house is on flat land or a hollow, then you are dependent upon the drains of the community. All you can do is make sure that they are kept as clear as possible, by reminding the administrator or ayuntamiento that this should be the case year-round. However, with a deluge like we’ve had - supposedly the worst for 27 years - no drainage system can be realistically designed to cope with that amount of water at once. Which means you have to expect problems and plan for possession protection as best you can. If your home is in a ‘dry’
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For peace mindand follow riverbed then firstly, it’s unlikely to beoflegal buying secondly, there is no suchthese placeproperty unless the riverrules has been diverted elsewhere. Fortunately, with the mountains so close, most Find Your Property houses are on slopes of various gradients. Many years ago, these hillsides will have been forested. The roots of trees and other plants bound the soil together and provided channels for the waInstruct ter to quickly penetrate to Building the Instruct caves and natural Surveyor Lawyer aquifers below. Once the trees were gone for shipbuilding and charcoal, the goats and other aggressive herbivores made sure that the trees Buy with Knowledge didn’t grow again. So the water now pours down & Confidence the hillsides largely unhindered by nature. Your aim must be to direct that water around your property and let any that does come onto it be +34 952 923 520no harm.Connect with us! guided through on routes that cause admin@surveyspain.com Lay field drains at foundation level, uphill from surveyspain.com retaining walls and house foundations, with the outlets into pipes that flow down each side of the property and discharge below. Do ensure that your diverted water does not flood your downhill neighbours or create eroded gullies. Backfill above the drains with loose pebbles and stones so that the rainwater can easily trickle down through it to the drain. Over time, these drains will become less effective so they must be cleaned or even replaced. Also, you must also have regular ‘weep holes’ through the wall at low or even multiple levels, to allows any build-up of water to pass through the wall and remove its weight. Otherwise the soil behind it will act like a sponge, keeping the wall constantly wet, hastening natural chemical breakdown and eventually leading to cracking and total collapse. More seriously, undiverted water can gradually undermine the foundations of a house, perhaps leading to expensive underpinning to avoid collapse, and certainly causing rising damp. ‘Rain, rain, go away. Come again another day’… preferably later rather than sooner, and NOT in one gigantic bucketload!
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Booming July predicted following to ‘pause’ in run-up EU referendum Special report
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Remain
Gibraltar are in Spain and ESTATE agents up for the busiest July on lining themselves put purrecord. British buyers EU It comes as some due to the forthcoming chases on holdJune 23. referendum on Olive Press spoke to conMost agents the various sales currently firmed they had the result, despite the ‘paused’ awaiting remaining strong. British market that the exThe majority believe to stay in Europe pected result - pound strength- will lead to the hot summer of ening with a red sales to follow. at Holmes Sotois Ben Bateman, the referendumfor property fund A HUGE US million on three grande, described ‘pause for thought splashing €45Sol developments. lead up as a due to concerns over new Costa del bosses behind British buyers’ The American Solutions have the weak pound.vote however, we expect to a sudReal Capital sizeable plots in “After a remain the year - and to up finish he snapped see a strong and Benahavis from British buyers,” Estepona, Mijas den wave of bids to look at further and continue gone one step told the Olive Press. the coast. Gibraltar has extra staff for opportunities along One agent in based in Marbella employing The company, further actually has five othSammy Cruz-Armstrong since 2013, alreadyincluding The July. Savills directoris on hold due to Brexit, er developments, stay in Europe said: “Everything will we Elviria. Retreat, in in July to deal but I am convinced on extra staff and am taking deluge of business.” with the expected Scott Marshall of ProperBenahavis agent
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pause as described the tieSpain, meanwhile, of the uncertainty ‘very psychological’. combination of He said: “It’s a exchange rate right now.” curof sales the vote and the have a couple more. While many agents unsome have seen rently on hold, ten sales currently on hold “We have up to said Victor Witkowski, til after the referendum,” in Manilva. but boss of Castles, necessarily pulling out, hap“Buyers are not their time to see what they are biding Hamilton, also pens.” agent, Shani are Fellow Manilva but added: “We as as soon confirmed a slowdown, influx of business predicting a huge a decision is made.”
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this month statistics out and Either way, official market remains strong their confirm the British continue to look for tens of thousands that fordream home. Mark Stucklin insists 16% Respected analystSpanish property was up eign demand for with Brits the biggest group in the first quarterat 22% of the market share.for of foreign buyersdominate the foreign market of a notice“The British still is no evidence said. he property and there demand as yet,” able decline in everyone is suffering. And certainly not Govier of Inland Andalucia the One agent, Graham impact’ at all during has seen ‘no negative are extremely referendum lead-up. opposite. Prices as “In fact it is the and we are selling two times cheap right now as we were last year,” he said.of many propertiessalesman Paul - already a bit sevHe added: “My - has just completed his a local celebrity sale and people are buying enth consecutive see that the incredible deals because they can for them forever,” he added. last won’t wait around in the Olive Press propernine Paul made headlines sold an impressive year when he
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Last post? THE Gibraltar Heritage Trust has slammed MOD proposals for the demolition of a building. The MOD has submitted an application for the demolition of the Police Post at the dockyard. The Trust claims the MOD wants to demolish the late Victorian structure to make way for additional car parking. The building is what remains of the Dockyard North Gate and is believed to date from 1901. “We believe that this iconic building is not past the point of repair or renovation,” a heritage spokesman said. “Every effort should be made by the MOD to ensure that the building is not lost forever. “It would be a great shame if this significant structure was demolished just for the sake of allocating parking spaces.” According to the Trust, it has suggested alternative uses for the building, which the MOD has dismissed as ‘inappropriate’. The organisation has called on the public to express concern through the government website (www.egov.gi).
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BREXIT Bulletin
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
Banking blues THE Bank of Spain has named Britain’s plan to exit the EU as the greatest potential threat to the country’s economic progress. Uncertainties over economic policies worldwide, especially in the United States, combined with Brexit could have a negative effect on the Spanish economy, according to the Bank of Spain’s latest forecasts. In fact, economists at the Bank are forecasting two years of negative deficit reduction. As well as Brexit, the bank is concerned about upcomming European elections, in particular in France and Germany.
No favours THE BREXIT secretary is ‘loath’ to negotiate a special deal for Gibraltar. David Davis made the shock announcement during a House of Commons Exiting the EU Committee, when responding to a question by Scottish National Party MP Joanna Cherry. She had asked him about the possibility of a tailor-made deal for Gibraltar and Northern Ireland. “I would be loath to go down that
UK Brexit minister offers blow to Gibraltar route,” said Davis. “I don’t see an option that meets what you describe”, he added. Davis did however indicate in the meeting that he was still “looking at all options” and had not yet ruled out separate deals.
Brief By Charles Gomez Six months on since Brexit referendum and Charles Gomez looks at the psychological impact of the decision of a generation
T
HIS Christmas Eve, it will be six months to the day since the Brexit Referendum result and I am reminded of the German names of two of Santa Claus' reindeer 'Donner' and 'Blitzen'. In English, 'Thunder' and 'Lightening'. More about Germany below but first, a confession. When I started writing these articles for the Olive Press I thought that Brexit was a matter to be considered within the ambit of law and politics. So, I have written at some length and sometimes presciently on issues such as the Royal Prerogative and European Citizenship. Separately I have had occasion to give talks on British secession from the EU in Morocco and Spain and I have been interviewed on the BBC, Cadena COPE and elsewhere. I have come to realise, however that this is not just about law and politics served neat but maybe, the editors of OP should've asked a psychiatrist to write about Brexit and the effect that a Referendum result seems to have had on people who still define themselves as democrats. For months now there has been wailing, gnashing of teeth and whimpering more suited to the aftermath of a tragedy and therefore surprising because we are dealing with a decision by the British people to withdraw not from Europe (that would be physically impossible), but from a bureaucratic entity created by some, not all, European countries i.e. something not dissimilar in principle to Ricky Gervais' dystopia "The Office". The latest offering has thrown me sideways. A reputable Labour MP, Ben Bradshaw has claimed in Parliament that the Referendum result was tilted by "Russian cyber warfare". Tragically, I do not think that he was joking. It is extraordinary, to my mind that an experienced socialist politician should have apparently not realised that the result was a judgement on years of weakness, indecision and arrogance at the top of the European Institutions. The voters, particularly those three million people who don't make it a habit of voting but did so on this occasion had had enough and wanted change. To say they were influenced by Russian secret agents makes the toes curl. At this time of the year we are called upon to try to predict what will happen in the New Year. In the context of Brexit I think that the focus will move away from Britain to Germany. The economic data suggests that Germany literally can-
Donner Und Blitzen!
not stop trading openly and uninhibitedly with the UK which accounts for 20.5% of Germany's entire trade surplus. That is £51 billion per year. Brexit has caught Germany in a vulnerable position. Its bailouts of Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece has lost it £125 billion in interest which was due to it from the European Central Bank. There is a funny clip on YouTube of a German reporter outside a Madrid public building remarking on the large number of civil servants arriving very late indeed for work. One lady candidly explained that she had overslept and all agreed that there would be no sanctions for their lack of punctuality. The RTL newsman ends by saying that with this attitude Germany has little hope of recovering what it is owed by countries in Southern Europe. The Germans are losing patience with the Latin belt and ironically, all the indications are that Germany's best bet is to have an optimum relationship with the UK. At this point it is well to remark that when we talk of £51 billion here and £125 billion there and €400 billion, calculated to be the cost of the immigration crisis over the next 20 years, we are talking of the German taxpayer whose money is being diverted from hospitals, schools and infrastructure. My prediction is that next year we should look out for thunder and lightning coming from Berlin and the Länder and that Germany will look to cement its trading relationship with the UK. One thing that does unite most Europeans from the Arctic Circle to the Greek Islands is Christmas. I wish all my readers a very happy Christmas and a prosperous 2017.
Readers of the Olive Press are invited to discuss this or any other legal matter with Charles Gomez by emailing charles@gomezco.gi
CHARLES GOMEZ & COMPANY BARRISTERS AT LAW
It is the first time that Davis has made an indication of his intentions regarding Gibraltar and Brexit. His remarks fly in the face of Fabian Picardo, who only last week visited London to take part in the first official round of Brexit talks. Talking on the Andrew Marr show on BBC One, Picardo said wants a ‘differentiated deal.’ This would guarantee Gibraltarians free access of movement and access to the single market.
Brexit burden A RESTAURANT in Madrid has launched an ingenious way to stick the boot in to Brexiteers. Serving up an ‘antibrexit’ menu, the selection is made up from products from nine EU countries to show the Brits what they are leaving behind. Popular with British tourists and expats, Metro Bistro’s owner Matias Smith said he hopes to show British people what they are leaving behind. Dishes and drinks from France, Italy, Norway, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Portugal and Sweden are accompanied by an English dessert to show the Brits that they are still wanted.
Fast-track out of there MEASURES have been unveiled to make it easier for businesses to move from England to Spain. The government’s plans include an ability to submit paperwork in English, gain fast-track authorisation for financial companies looking to relocate and not imposing any more rules than already exist within the EU. An english speaking post would also be created to help firms navigate Spanish law and the relocation process. The news was revealed by the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores (CNMV), the government’s financial watchdog. Sebastian Abella, its president, said the measures were created in part due to the possibility that London’s City may lose its financial passport as a result of Brexit, which gives companies based in England to do business within the EU.
Be civil A LEADING politician has reaffirmed his desire for a ‘civilised’ Brexit. Government economy minister Luis de Guindos tried to allay fears about Spain’s attitude to Britain’s EU exit in a recent visit to Brussels.
Process
He made his remarks to Michael Barnier, European Commission representative for Brexit, who is currently canvassing opinions of the different states on the process. “We want to contribute as much as we can to a civilized negotiation”, said Guindos. “From the point of view of economic re-
lations, the UK is one of the most, if not the most, important countries for Spain.
Health scare PENSIONERS have revealed their fears about losing their access to free Spanish healthcare. Some of those who have retired to Andalucia now think they may be forced to return to Britain if Brexit negotiations do not go well. This is so they can ensure continued access to essential medication and services. Their worries were highlighted at a recent meeting in Mijas, where they talked to Reuters about their concerns over the UK’s EU divorce process. Currently, pensioners can get free access to the Spanish health system thanks to the UK, who ultimately picks up their bills. But nothing has yet been decided about the future of the agreement.
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THE glory days of €1 canas could be well and truly behind spain. With new EU tax regulations coming into force, the price of alcohol is set to soar. While consumer tax would remain unchanged at 25 percent, companies will benefit from fewer rebates. The same regulations are also being applied to cigarettes and soft drinks.
Artichoker ARTICHOKE farmers are reporting mass delays in this year’s production following the recent downpours. Unrelenting rain in Murcia over the past month is the main reason for the delay. The overall yield is not expected to be impacted however supermarkets may run short until the inclement weather passes. Murcia grows around 70% of Spain’s artichokes.
December 21st - January 3rd 2017
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Takes guts!
British Science Museum gives talk on digestion THE British Science Museum has been conducting a series of food experiments and shows at Ince’s Hall. Called It Takes Guts, the performance-led seminar focused on food and digestion and were not for the faint-hearted. Featuring real video footage of people’s insides, the 45-minute spectacle took the Rock’s kids on journey, following the food from the mouth to the ‘acid bath’ in the stomach and along the intestines before coming out the other end.
The show ends with a squirm-inducing demonstration of why your faeces are brown. The sessions, including pupils from various schools on the Rock, have been designed as a fun way to learn about science. It is the sixth time that the museum has visited Gibraltar, led by presenter Heather Patrick. Lasting two weeks, presenter Sarah Jane Law also joined the bill for her maiden visit.
Threads of golden saffron
SAFFRON farmers have made a comeback in Spain thanks in part to the country’s Michelin star chefs. The likes of Daniel Lasa from San Sebastian’s Mugaritz restaurant are said to have made the spice cool again, while changes in the market have favoured the once threatened farmers who in 2007 were only producing 100kg a year collectively. “Consumers and the trade are now preferring to
pay a little more for saffron which has a better aroma and taste than just something that colours the foods,” said Pat Heslop-Harrison, professor of agricultural genetics at the University of Leicester. Lasa agrees, and only buys the world’s most expensive spice from its perceived capital of Castilla-La Mancha. “In Spain we treat it as if it were threads of gold,” he says.
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IF Theresa May hadn’t shown such arrogance in appealing a High Court decision, she could simply have asked Parliament to decide the method and got on with the job (Day in the dock, issue 33). All she is doing DELUGE! is causing a delay. But then, what can you expect from a Let your company woman so vain, that she pays a grand for a pair of trousers to pose in. Good job they are shiny brown leather. The camouflage might come in handy if her appeal fails.
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Day in the dock!
Two dead and thousands of homes flooded as storms lash Gibraltar and southern Spain
GIBRALTAR and southern “Luckily enough there were no Spain have been clearing up major issues in terms of injuafter torrential rains killed two ries,” Deputy Chief Fire Officer people and left thousands of Colin Ramirez told the Olive homes flooded. Press. An electrician drowned in A GIBRALTAR campaigner is On Monday all schools rehis van in La Linea less than determined to show Theresa mained open for a full day 24 hours after a 26-year-old May ‘she is wrong’ after travelother than St. Mary’s. woman perished in an underling to London for a historic Flooding was reported on parts ground car park in the baseBrexit showdown with the UK of Main Street with a rock fall ment of a strip club in Cancegovernment. near Beach View Terraces as lada, Estepona. Paul Cartwright has joined felChief Minister Fabian Picardo Much of the Costa del low members of The People’s issued a statement urging resiSol was deChallenge as they prepare to dents to clared a ‘difight the Tories Supreme Court ‘stay safe’. saster zone’ battle to overturn a High Court Several with milruling, that insisted only parliaflights lions of eument could trigger Article 50. into Giros of damDespite having his luggage acbraltar age and cidentally diverted to BirmingInternathousands ham, he told the Olive Press he tional Airof homes was ‘more than ready’ for the port were flooded. historic showdown. diverted The worst “For Gibraltar, it is so importo Malaga affected artant we stay in the European on Sunday eas were Mijas, Estepona, CarUnion,” Cartwright said from evening and Monday morntama, Manilva and Casares. the Supreme Court steps, wearing, but normal service had Some 235.2mm of rain fell on ing jeans, with his suit 100 resumed by the afternoon. Gibraltar between Friday evemiles away. No crimes or arrests were ning and Monday morning, reported by the Royal Giapproaching double the total braltar Police between 7am Challenge average December rainfall, acon December 4 and 7am on cording to MeteoGib. “Even being in the EU, we have December 5 as people stayed The Gibraltar Fire and Rescue had so many issues with Spain. indoors. service was called out around We are here to make sure that 40 times due to flooding with parliament’s sovereignty is reextra staff called in to help with spected. See When the heavens the increased number of calls. “We have already won in the opened - Page 6 High Court so we have proved to the rest of the world that we are right and she [May] is wrong.” The People’s Challenge has raised over £150,000 to fight the case. It is the first time all 11 Supreme Court justices will sit for a ruling, with London School of Economics law professor Michael Zander predicting a huge loss for the government. The case is due to end on ThursUNDER WATER: Sabinillas underpass, day. in Los Barrios and (right) shopworker crushed car in Gib
and really be seen
SAVED: Dawson with son
Up to his neck! EXCLUSIVE By Rob Horgan
GLOOMY: Gibraltar and (below)
metro in Malaga
A BRITISH expat was pulled from a flooded lift in a dramatic two-hour rescue effort. Bet365 worker Dan Dawson told the Olive Press he feels ‘lucky to be alive’ after he found himself up to his neck in flood water while stuck in a lift during Sunday’s storms. The nightmare happened when Dawson, 46, attempted to save his five-year-old son Kaled’s Christmas presents from their basement in Duquesa. “It was absolutely horrific,” Dawson said. “I honestly thought that was going to be it for me.”
Rescue
He added: “I stupidly didn’t check how bad the weather was outside before going down in the lift. “As I got closer to the basement water started flowing from everywhere and I couldn’t stop it. “Within a minute it was up to my chest and I really began panicking.” Luckily, neighbours came to his rescue when Dawson’s partner Sylina heard his screams. However they were unable to lift the roof of the lift and it was only when he managed to get the lift to rise by half a storey by continually hitting the up button that he had a bit of breathing space. Police were soon on the scene and prized open the lift with a crowbar, pulling Dawson, from Derby, to safety. His car was also left ruined after the building’s basement garage flooded.
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LETTERS
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THOSE Remainers at the top will do anything to not lose their particular gravy train (Careful What EU Wish For, Issue 33). They are the ones who will lose if we decouple from the corrupt business organisation – the EU. Sadly, there are serfs who neither gain or lose who will support them – camp followers, who will follow anyone who promises not to make them take responsibility for their own lives. Check out the 20th century for examples – brownshirts, blackshirts and redshirts by the million.
Stefano Lewinski, Marbella
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IN my opinion the article is missing the point that the issue here is not about political right or left, or nationalism (Careful What EU Wish For, Issue 33). The core issue here is the fail of the aberrant neoliberal ideology. An ideology that promised prosperity for all by the mean of reducing the legal bounds and the promotion of globalism, has impoverished 80% of the population of industrial countries and is frightening them because they see that the massive immigration is provoking huge social and ethics problems.
THE truth is, since Brexit, the EU is stronger and more united than ever (Careful What EU Wish For, Issue 33). Nobody wants to be out of the single market, and nobody wants to be isolated when you have to negotiate with China, Russia, NAFTA, etc. In brief, nobody wants to be in Britain’s shoes.
moreDec rain26 - 4616MAGELLAN views Mon more rain - 461609:00/ views 13:00
Stuart Crawford, Marbella
Anonymous
Floody nightmare THE floods were horrendous. Saturday night and Sunday morning will live long in the memories of thousands of people (Deluge, issue 33). But the reaction of the authorities to clean everything up has been nothing short of amazing. I find it absolutely incredible at just how quick the clear up operation got going. In the days after I drove up one of the very worst affected roads in Mijas and you really wouldn’t know that just a few days
Pablo Cedron, La Linea
back it was a disaster zone. Walkways and roads have been cleaned, damage removed and most of the area now looks virtually as it did before the floods. Many people will have lingering problems with water-damaged buildings and belongings, but if this had happened in the UK it would have been weeks (if not months) until this level of recovery were reached. Ray Farmer, Mijas
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December 21st - January 3rd 2017 December 21st - January 3rd
Ass good as it gets Forget the jolly ho-ho – give it some yuletide hee-haw
T
HIS festive season, spare a thought for the humble donkey and anyone who’s ever had to dress up as one for a school nativity play, like me. (And not even a whole donkey. I had a bit part as its back end). But for the donkey, Jesus would never have been born in Bethlehem and we might all have become Buddhists. He is, in fact, the real star of the Christmas story. He carried a heavily-pregnant woman on a 90-mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, on unlit C-roads, laden with supplies and camping equipment for the week-long trip. And after all that, he didn’t even get his Xmas dinner because the baby Jesus was occupying his manger. If you believe in The Nativity (there are a few holes in the virgin birth theory and
STARRING MULE: Humble donkey
none of the gospels specify any animal being present at the birth), the donkey deserves top billing (or second lead, if you’re the back end). Alas, in the real world, no parent would claim bragging rights to their child scoring the donkey role, with its dumb ass connotations. Every mother and father aspires to see their little angel in a plum role – preferably one with a halo. Competition is fierce, the buttering up of drama teachers rife and, as I type, parents all over the world are experiencing nagging self-doubt a.k.a. Whyisn’t-our-child-Mary/Joseph Syndrome. Anything less than the innkeeper, or a shepherd with a speaking part, is a mark of failure. The donkey is a no-no. Lampooned by everyone from Shakespeare (Bottom in Midsummer Night’s Dream) to Shrek (Eddy Murphy’s Donkey), if there’s a joke, the ass is generally the butt of it. But not always… Take US presidential candidate Andrew ‘Jackass’ Jackson, as the Opposition rudely called him, who turned the insult on its head and made the donkey the symbol of the Democratic Party of America for its characteristic determination, work ethic and balls. He won the1828 election by a landslide. Catalunya’s Nationlist Party also appreciates the finer points of equus africanus asinus, adopting the silhouette of a Catalan donkey on a Spanish flag as its logo in a two-fingered salute to the Castilian bull.
BOOM!! KAPPOOW!! ‘What did you do during the Great Flood of 2016 Daddy?’
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’M not usually up and about at 5am on a Sunday morning – I normally have a much more pressing engagement with my duvet. You could send a herd of rampaging rhino in hobnail boots bashing out Ace of Spades on guitars set to 11 through my bedroom on the Day of Rest and I wouldn’t so much as stir. On this particular Sunday, however, I was not in my own bed. Before you leap to your own conclusions, raise your collective eyebrows or indulge in a group Frankie Howerdesque “Ooh-errrrr Misses”, it wasn’t what you think. My best friends had gone back to the UK to see the very great Dr John Cooper Clarke and Hugh Cornwell in concert in Manchester and had asked me to housesit for their menagerie (five cats and a cartoon-style terrier called Jasper) and I needed a weekend break from the Casita. Don’t get me wrong. I adore my house but as I’m off grid, sometimes it’s great to be able to flick a switch and the lights come on without having to clump off down the path and kick-start the generator first. The sudden crack of thunder followed by a bright flash of lightning sent me scurrying out of bed. Jasper had taken refuge under the double bed and the cats were no doubt hiding in cupboards and under chairs, sofas and tables. Taking a tour of the house, I walked into the photographic studio – my friends are both talented photographers – and put my foot straight into something wet. For a second I grimaced and silently cursed Jasper – thinking that the sudden
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storm had caused the hound to have a slight ‘accident’. I quickly realised (thankfully at first) that I was standing in water that was stealthily seeping into the studio. Surrounded by several thousand euros of computer and photographic equipment, I quickly unplugged everything I could and moved it to higher and drier locations. I was also doing a live radio show that morning. I may complain about my large 4x4 and its tendency to gas guzzle, but ‘The Tank’ thrived in the abject conditions, getting me safely to the studio. On the way, I passed a few stranded cars that had tried to make it through flooded underpasses but best of all was the fire engine marooned under a bridge while a stand up padel boarder floated serenely by. They may have been the worst floods in 25 years but the Spanish 4x4 drivers that were on the road seemed unaware of this. I clocked one that passed me doing at least 100 – obviously under the impression that he was driving an offshore powerboat. After the show I drove gingerly back up to the Casita to see the damage. Amazingly, apart from a few rock falls on the road, the cottage was untouched. The boats, however, were another story. I found them the following morning in the middle of the lake, almost full to the brim with water and in danger of sinking. An hour and a half of careful and gentle bailing from my one-man kayak later, I had rescued both boats. And if you are looking for a set of exercises to really work those core muscles – one-handed boat bailing from a kayak is definitely my pick for the next fitness trend!
Furthermore, Spanish burros helped to make America great long before Donald Trump ever thought of it. The conquistadors shipped them over from Spain as beasts of burden to help build the New World. Most people have a sneaking respect for Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh – unrepentantly antisocial but always his own donkey. So if your child is playing one this Christmas, rejoice, be proud and make your little one ‘Glad to be Bray’. Oh, and if you do one other thing this month, visit a belen viviente when entire villages dress up as Nativity characters, with real animals, in productions that put Hollywood to shame. The most popular member of the cast is always the one with the long furry ears, you can bet your sweet ass on it. Donkeys are seriously cute, with their chocolate liqueur eyes and gentle ways and I know what will put the ho-ho into my own festive season – a happy little heehaw when I take my neighbourhood burro her Christmas carrot.
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+TheolivepressEs U-21s’ Euro BE ‘APPY! bow GIBRALTAR will play in the UEFA Under-21 Euro qualifiers for the first time next year. Download our app nowqualiand The draw for the nine fying begin groups willthe take enjoying bestplace Spanish in Switzerland on January news on the go. 26 and will be streamed live by UEFA.com. The tournament will take place in Italy in 2019. Gibraltar are ranked 54th out of 55 UEFA member countries, and will be drawn from Pot F, featuring teams rankedThe 46 to Olive 55 in Europe. Press
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A CHARITY tug of war has raised £793 for GBC Open Day. Staff from Bland Group International (BGI) and MH Bland (MHB) locked horns, with the Piazza showdown filmed by GBC. MNB secured a hard-fought win to reclaim the trophy from BGI. Both teams have now got one victory under their belt so it is all to play for in 2017.
Bag for life BARCELONA star Lionel Messi has made a six-yearold Afghan boy’s dreams come true. The young lad joined Messi and the Barcelona team on the pitch as the team’s mascot before an exhibition game between the Catalan giants and Qatar. So keen to join in, budding footballer Murtaza Ahmadi followed Messi on to the pitch for kick off, crashed the team photo and coin toss and had to be carried off the pitch by the referee so that the game could get underway. A picture of Murtaza wearing a blue and white plastic bag with ‘Messi 10’ written on the back went viral in January.
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THE cream of the world’s pool players are heading to Gibraltar for a prestigious tournament. The 24th annual World Pool masters will take place from Friday 17-19 February. Pool’s longest running invitational event comes to the Rock for the first time. Sixteen of the world’s best players will do battle to claim a top prize of £16,000.
The masters tournament will be shown live on Sky Sports for the first time. Efren Reyes, the world’s greatest pool player, is thought to be among those invited. In October, Gibraltarian youngster Jonathan Bear and his Irish partner Anthony Mcaleer beat England 3-0 to become under-15 World Pool Doubles World Champions.
Up for the cup GIBTELECOM is the new sponsor of the Rock Cup. The partnership between the GFA and Gibtelecom will see the knockout tournament rechristened The Gibtelecom Rock Cup. The four-year deal will start this season. “This is a positive step in the association’s continued growth and development and an excellent opportunity to collaborate with a brand that shares many of our core values,” said General Secretary of the Gibraltar Football Association, Dennis Beiso. “We are keen to progress
PARTNERS: Rock Cup deal
commercial Initiatives such as these going forward, putting fans at the heart of football.”
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Wake up call CELTIC boss Brendan Rodgers has pointed to the Hoops historic defeat to the Lincoln Red Imps as the most important moment in the Scottish champions’ season. On a run of five straight wins in the SPL, Celtic have since recorded two draws with English giants Manchester City as well as taking a point off Borussia Mönchengladbach in Germany in the Champions League. However, things did not get off to such a good start, losing 1-0 to a Lee Casciaro goal at Victoria Stadium in July. Rodgers said: “It’s fair to say we’ve come a long way from the first game we played on the astro in Gibraltar. “The game was a nice little wake-up for the players. “Defeats like that can happen, with the pitch and everything
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THUMBS UP: Brendan Rodgers else, but it sharpened the teeth in many aspects of what we wanted to do. He added: “That defeat was supposedly embarrassing,
but I knew when we got home we would win the tie. It also told me a couple of wee things early on about the fragility of the side.”
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A LEADING firefighter, Shane Brown, has completed an intensive UK training course before he moves on to become an instructor next year.
Top rank THE Royal Gibraltar Regiment has welcomed its newest officer after Second Lieutenant Martin GarciaMcGrath ‘passed out’ from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in Surrey.
Paris plea ENVIRONMENT minister Dr John Cortes has written to the UK government to ask Gibraltar is included in the UK’s acceptance of the Paris Climate Change Agreement.
Vol. 2 Issue 34
LIUETENANT Mark Randall has returned to a hero’s welcome on the Rock after completing his 8,000km hike to Jerusalem. Randall left Gibraltar in April and set out for the Holy Land for the gruelling nine-month walk. Wearing his trademark sandals and shorts - despite the wet weather - Randall spoke in front of family and friends inside the airport. “I remember last year when I walked from Cardiff the Chief Minister said something to me,” he said. “Coincidentally, when I started on April 1 from the shrine of Our Lady Of Europe, the Governor said the same thing to me. It was very significant. It was: ‘Be true to yourself’. “You need to understand your limitations, and where those limitations exist, you need to change course and take it a different direction.” The ex-Royal Gibraltar Regiment commanding officer was greeted by Chief Minister and Governor at Gibraltar Airport. Governor Davis hailed Randall’s efforts as ‘momentous’. “What a great manifestation of the spirit, the ambition, the
Upsizing
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AN important community group has opened the doors to its new home. The Moroccan Community Association will now host its social events in the much bigger premises on top of Crutchett’s Ramp. The new home came about thanks to the Government which declared their former premises
I’ve been true to myself
Mark Randall arrives back in Gibraltar after 8,000km to Jerusalem
indomitable nature of being a Gibraltarian, walking all the way from here to Jerusalem,” he said. “We could not be more proud.” Picardo hailed Randall’s efforts as he presented a cheque to his charity, the The Royal Gibraltar Regiment Benevolent Fund.
HOLY HIKER: Randall
not fit for purpose. Spokesperson Ali Douissi spoke of his members’ pride at being part of the wider Gibraltar community and thanked the GSLP for helping to improve their lives.
Battling for bilinguists A NEW children’s language school is set to open in Gibraltar. The Gibraltar College Language School will teach Spanish, French and Italian to pupils aged 6 to 16 years old Enrolment will take place from 9am to 3pm between January 9 and 17. Minister for Education, Dr John Cortes, said: “Studies have shown that language skills help learning abilities across all areas and, in adults, bilingualism has been shown to delay the onset of dementia by around five years. “Gibraltarians gain many economic and social advantages from their bilingualism and we should do everything possible to foster our community’s linguistic skills.” It comes after the Spanish government closed the Gibraltar branch of Instituto Cervantes in 2015. Application forms at www.gibraltarcollege.org
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