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Vol. 3 Issue 62 www.gibraltarolivepress.com January 17th - January 30th 2018
Big increase in Campo drug smuggling blamed on police distracted by Catalunya MARLENE: New motion
Time for change GIBRALTAR must adopt tighter laws to protect the environment. The demand comes in a hardhitting motion proposed by independent MP Marlene Hassan Nahon. Hassan believes a series of new policies need to be implemented, following in-depth discussions with the public, via her Together Gibraltar platform. She wants the government to accept that not only is air quality ‘poor’ on the Rock, but it could be remedied by cutting vehicle emissions. The issue was highlighted in a Gibraltar Olive Press splash (right) last year, when alarming pollution levels in Gibraltar were revealed by the EU. At the next meeting of parliament Hassan wants the house to accept some key issues. These include accepting that poor air quality is not a new phenomenon and that the Rock must try harder to adhere to EU targets on air quality. She also wants better monitoring in key locations and a promise to meet EU targets on recyclable waste. She wants an independent analysis of renewable energy potential and recommends an independent body to oversee these changes.
EXCLUSIVE By Joe Wallen
THEY were woken by a loud bang and then the unmistakeable acrid smell of burning rubber. A classic RHIB speed boat had landed on the beach close to Alcaidesa port, in La Linea, before being set alight by drug smugglers to destroy any evidence. In the same week this January at least half a dozen other drug boats had landed their sinister hauls in the town, the Gibraltar Olive Press can reveal. Indeed, local residents told the paper that drug running across the Straits has increased in regularity over the past couple of months. They claim that the fast boats are arriving ‘on an almost daily basis’ and nothing is being done. Police, both in Spain and Gibraltar, privately admit that drug trafficking in the Campo has exploded. Sources told the paper that the issue was due to a reduction in police presence in the region, thanks to on-going political unrest in Catalunya and the migrant crisis in the Strait of Gibraltar.
Deployed
Some estimates claim 6,000 extra police were deployed to Catalunya in the autumn and the majority still remain there. Many of these are specialist officers from the Unidades de Intervención Policial, a
Fleur Hassan– Nahoum speaks to the press in Gibraltar for the first time since becoming the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem. Read the fascinating interview on Page 6 and 7
‘Out of control’ Photos by the Gibraltar Chronicle
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DRUG BUSTS: Rising
specialist unit of the national police, based in Cadiz. “It is very worrying,” one La Linea resident, who did not wished to be named, told the Gibraltar Olive Press. “Drug gangs are becoming increasingly confident. “We know that arrests are still happening and some are high profile, but it is all those who are getting away with it that worries us the most.
“Everyone who lives here knows someone in the business and they are becoming more confident; more young people see it is a long term career.” Another resident fears that the situation could lead to an increase in gang warfare. “Violence is increasing here, gangs are competing more and it needs to be stopped before it gets worse,” said Marta Gonzalez Borja, 34,
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from Algeciras. “You see all the news from Mexico and I fear the worse. “More young people are getting into the drug game because they don’t fear the police anymore.” A number of big seizures don’t seem to be making a difference. They include 5.8 tonnes of cocaine seized in Algeciras hidden in bananas and the round up of 11 members in big drug gangs in La Linea caught smuggling 960kg of cocaine inside pineapples. The family, which has been drug smuggling for an estimated 40 years, had more than €2 million stashed in several bank accounts and owned an incredible 57 buildings, worth €7 million. Another La Linea family were rounded up, with police seizing various guns from a bogus day-care centre, where drugs were sold. Meanwhile police announced that on January 9 and 10, some 11.5kg of hashish was seized in four separate raids in La Linea. On January 8, a further 3kg was found, along with two
guns and three stolen vehicles. Cases have become so frequent that the Junta has recently created a new unit of 12 agents to deal with the problem. Called the ‘Response Task Force’, it is however covering the whole of Andalucia and nowhere near big enough fear locals. Residents insist that the most important change to combat the problem would be a long-awaited second anti-drugs prosecutor for the Campo region.
Worsening
A Gibraltarian police source confirmed that the situation was ‘worsening’ and that the force was ‘increasingly concerned’. Last year alone, the Royal Gibraltar Police were involved in 88 high speed chases at sea involving suspected drug gangs. These actions led to cannabis of an estimated street value in excess of €20 million from reaching the Rock or nearby Campo. “The RGP remains committed to its fights against illegal drugs whether on land or at sea,” a spokesman from the police told the Gibraltar Olive Press. Opinion Page 6
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CRIME
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NEWS IN BRIEF
La Linea drug bust bonanza
Falklands friends
POLICE in La Linea have seized 12 tonnes of hash in the space of 48 hours following four separate operations. The alarm was raised in the first incident after police officers spotted a suspicious van and pursued it. Inside officers discovered 11 bales of cannabis resin weighing 375kg and arrested the driver. Hours later, police pursued a 4x4 vehicle suspected of drug trafficking in a high-speed chase, eventually the driver pulled into a garage and escaped over the rooftops. Police seized 4.9 tonnes of cannabis, eight sto-
THE Falkland Islands government has sent a message congratulating former Chief Minister Joe Bossano on being awarded a knighthood. They described him as a ‘long-standing friend of the Falkland Islands’.
Park life
HASH STASH: On the Campo
THE Gibraltarian government has announced plans to launch a new residential parking scheme in the town centre, which will be called Zone 2.
Rock jamboree GIBRALTAR Cultural Services has announced plans for a Youth Arts Jamboree in February which will see a new cultural development programme launched for young people.
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Stories and features in this edition of Gibraltar’s original community newspaper
January 17th - January 30th 2018
TWO Gibraltarian sisters have been jailed in the UK after attempting to smuggle seven Albanians, including a minor, into the country. Alison Alman, 43, was jailed for six years and her older sister, Fabiola Alman, 47, was imprisoned for five years. UK Border Force officers became suspicious after they searched the women’s camper van when they arrived in Portsmouth on a Brittany Ferries vessel from Bilbao.
Caught
They encountered an ‘unbearable’ smell of excrement and urine coming from the back of the vehicle. A simple scan revealed that seven individuals had been crammed in the rear sleeping area. “Alison put the smell down to some cheese kept in the fridge, which had been switched off for 24 hours,” the prosecutor said. “Fabiola stated that the toilet
len 4×4 vehicles with false number plates, a handgun with 13 rounds of ammunition and radio transmitters. In another incident police reprimanded drug smugglers on the beach and 117 bales of cannabis weighing 3.5 tonnes. Finally a high-speed chase led to 52 bales weighing 1.7 tonnes were seized from within the warehouse. The spike in activity coincides with the harvesting season in Morocco, with a further 5kg of hashish and eight SUVs seized in yet another raid.
Sister act Alison and Fabiola Alman will now face six and five years in jail respectively
was full, and put this down to her sister being a big eater. “She said she herself suffered from constipation and did not use the toilet.” The six men were returned to Bilbao while the minor was passed into the care of social services. Despite first protesting their innocence, it became evident that
the sisters were involved in serious crime. Alison had agreed to smuggle the men into the UK as a way of writing off debts to her drug dealer in London, who she owed £4,000. However, Alison was unable to drive the camper van herself due to a previous conviction for drink driving. Her sister Fabiola instead agreed to do the driving for an £800 fee.
Justice
“People smugglers like Fabiola and Alison Alman exploit the vulnerable and put lives at risk while lining their own pockets in the process,” said Chief Immigration Officer Jo Howorth. “Their attempt was stopped by Border Force officers who identified the people they had hidden in the motor home in squalid and dangerous conditions. “I hope this case serves as a clear warning that those who try to break the UK’s immigration laws will be brought to justice.”
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A GIBRALTARIAN drug dealer has been sentenced to a further 16 weeks in jail after also being found guilty of money laundering. Gerard Asquez, of Laguna Estate, is already serving a jail sentence of five years and nine months for possessing cocaine and intending to supply the drug. The further charge comes after Asquez attempted to deposit £17,000 of cash in a bank account between January and February 2015. The court heard that this money had been made illegally through Asquez’s drug dealing. The further 16 weeks will be served consecutively to the previous five years and nine months, despite Asquez’s requests for a concurrent sentence.
Neill: Revolutionary
Appeal to history HE is credited as the man who revolutionised Gibraltar’s Court of Appeal. He also oversaw a tribunal that was the focus of what was described as Gibraltar’s ‘constitutional crisis’. Sir Brian Neill PC, a High Court judge from London, was drafted in to chair the important hearing, having spent years as president of the Court of Appeal from 1998 to 2003. The tribunal was investigating top judge Chief Justice Derek Schofield who was accused of failing to pay MOT for his car and for paying his housekeeper below minimum wage. Schofield’s wife was also accused of using her position to implement changes to law. Neill, who assisted the Chief Minister in sacking Schofield for ‘repeatedly falling far short of what befitted the dignity of his office’, has now passed away, aged 94. Schofield’s dismissal in 2009 was an embarrassing episode for the territory, which is something his successor Chief Justice Anthony Dudley rectified through his performance as his replacement.
Folly of youth TWO juvenile criminals have been arrested and charged in Gibraltar on suspicion of two separate burglary offences. The 13 and 14-year-olds were spotted by a member of the Karate-do-Shotokai Club at Town Range stealing items from the changing rooms. After the police arrested the pair it also emerged the young duo were behind another burglary at Drummonds Accountants. In addition to the burglary charges, the 13-year-old has been charged with assaulting a member of staff at Drummonds and possessing a controlled drug.
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Holiday romance?
ROMANCE could be back on the cards for TOWIE stars Gemma Collins and James ‘Arg’ Argent after they were spotted kissing in Marbella. The on-off lovers were spotted out on the town
Showing off her styles IT was perhaps only a matter of time. Malaga-born expat singer Mabel McVey, 21, is about to see her career go into overdrive after being invited to support Harry Styles on his world tour. The daughter of Neneh Cherry and producer dad Cameron McVey is set to perform in 21 European cities as part of Styles’s Live On Tour spectacle. “It’ll be a great exercise - Harry’s lovely and what he’s doing is cool, so it’s all really exciting,” said the singer, who grew up in Malaga. The Andalucian singer achieved a top ten hit in 2017 with catchy hit Finders Keepers. She is set to release her debut album in 2018. Her Brit-award winning Mum Neneh Cherry had a series of hits in the 1980s and 1990s, while her dad Cameron McVey produced bands including Massive Attack, All Saints and the Sugababes.
with pals, including Mijas restaurateur Elliott Wright and his new wife Sadie Stuart. However, despite the kiss it is unlikely that
Rocking out
TOWIE fans will see a lot of the pair together over the coming months. Arg is thought to be looking to move to Mar-
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bella permanently while Gemma is moving to New York for her first American TV role. She has landed a spot on Netflix smash series Orange is the New Black.
This year’s winner of the Singer Songwriter competition talks to the Gibraltar Olive Press about his plans for the future
EXCLUSIVE By Joe Wallen
RETURNING home to Gibraltar for Christmas, Evan Torrente realised that his visit coincided with the annual Singer Songwriter competition at The Rock On The Rock Club. The 21-year-old decided to enter, singing a song called ‘Save Me’ that his band Motherhood had released in the summer. Despite having not performed in Gibraltar for several years, Torrente dazzled the judges and was announced as the contest’s winner. “I spotted it when scrolling
Going red in Tenerife RED-haired beauty, Angela Scanlon, 34, has been spotted enjoying a winter break in Tenerife. The Robot Wars presenter, who is pregnant with her first child, has been sharing her sunny snaps on social media. ‘Early bird catches the (sunbrella emoji)’ she wrote of a pic lying on a sunbed. Irish-born Scanlon previously hosted The One Show. BURNT: Scanlon
It has been the talk of the Rock with over 12,000 views in just two weeks! The popular column returns this issue, speaking to Gibraltarians Brandon Gibbins, 19, Model about their one day to broadplans for the Ienhope my horizons through New Year. my modelling career and to get as much exLook out for perience as I can out of friendly faces, life. This is something I’ve you never been wanting to do I was little, it’s know who will since where I find my passion really. feature!
ON THE RISE: Torrente and his band mates
through my news feed and thought ‘I’ve got songs and I always need stuff to do when I’m back for Christmas’, so I thought why not,” Torrente told the Gibraltar Olive Press. “It’s also been a good two or three years since the last time I performed in Gibraltar, so it seemed apt.” The Gibraltarian is currently studying at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and he believes his band are destined for chart success. “Soon after arriving in the UK I formed a pop band with some university pals,” he continued. “We’ve been together for two
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BLOWING UP: Mabel
January 17th - January 30th 2018
years and are starting to get there with mentions in music publications and playing on national and local radio. “We’ve even been on Radio 1. “We’ve also achieved over 60,000 plays on Spotify - and this is only the beginning.” Torrente has now returned to the UK to finish his degree but has promised that his studies will not get in the way of Motherhood releasing new music over the next few months. He also intends to play a gig on the Rock in the near future, so keep your eyes out pop music fans - Torrente is one to watch!
Life’s a beach
REALITY TV star Georgia Harrison has been spotted enjoying the winter sun while on a recent holiday to Tenerife. The 23-year-old, who found fame this summer after appearing on Love Island, was spotted relaxing on the beach in a pink cactus bikini. She famously dated Sam Gowland on the ITV show but their romance was short lived and they broke up after they left the villa in Mallorca.
Voices of Gibraltar
Jordan Davis, 37, Works at the Gibraltar Tourist Board “I remember when I was a toddler that there was always a sense of excitement whenever the Cavalcade was imminent. “Nowadays I don’t feel that this is the case. There is no support from the community
or big companies to make it an enjoyable and unforgetable event. “More than 20 floats would parade down Main Street in my years as a child. It is sad and pathetic to see just 10 or less floats parading down
Jade Taylor, 27, Insurance Adviser The Rock is a birdwatcher’s paradise, it is also famous for being home to a population of Barbary macaques. Gibraltar is a very unique, multicultural place. It is not often you travel to a country where so many different religions live together so peaceful and happy!!
Main Street, and don’t get me wrong, I applaud all involved in making this event possible, but please Gibraltar try and support this event or it will be one that will be forgotten if we Gibraltarian’s don’t play a big part in it.”
Emma Rodgers, 32, Human Resources During the past four years I have had the privilege to meet some very inspiring people who not only are now my friends but family, they have helped me grow and believe in myself. This has made me the person I am today and helped me achieve great goals in life,which I shall always be grateful for. Recently I have had the opportunity to be a part of an amazing team where together we give many the opportunity to further their studies and reach their goals in life. We strive to offer training from health and safety to basic administrative roles. I am so very proud to be a part of Phoenix Solutions a new ompany in Gibraltar with a great future.
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January 17th - January 30th 2018
MTV calls again
LATE START: For MTV
IT’S back and it’s bound to be better… but this year the Gibraltar Calling MTV festival will be a little later than normal. The festival, which normally takes place at the beginning of September has been pushed back to September 21/22. The popular weekend - whose headliners have included Steve Aoki, Kings of León and Fatboy Slim - has been pushed back to allow a number of key football matches to take place. Early bird tickets are now on sale with two-day general admission tickets priced at £89.
The line-up will be announced over the next few months, with a string of chart-topping artists set to play on the main stage, alongside heritage acts on the classic stage. “I am delighted that Gibraltar will continue its partnership with MTV as its main media partner, benefiting from the strength of MTV’s marketing and media support whilst still allowing us to announce artists that appeal to all ages and tastes,” said Chief Minister Fabian Picardo.
A lesson for all
GLOBAL: Garcia
G’day mate
Llamas hopes the information gathered will allow him to hold the government to account A PUBLIC survey into plans to build eight new schools in Gibraltar has been launched by independent MP Lawrence Llamas. The survey of 51 questions aims to consult the public on issues including coeducation, the school year re-alignment and hot school lunches.
Individual questions will also be tailored to reflect the concerns of parents about specific schools. Llamas hopes the results will allow him to better understand the needs of Gibraltarians and hold the government to account. “I’m keen to harvest and collate the data gathered and present it to the government,” he said. “I am hopeful that this initiative will give us, in particular teachers, parents and students a voice which I can amplify by highlighting what we
INDEPENDENT: Llamas think is great, what we think needs re-thinking and how we would like to see things improved.” The ex-GSD politician hopes that his initiative will become part of a new style of inclusive campaigning. “I’d like to invite as many people as possible to join me in creating a new and dynamic way of doing politics in Gibraltar – in a respectful, reasonable, sensible and safe manner,” he added.
GIBRALTAR is aiming to maximise its relationships with other Commonwealth nations in the lead up to Brexit. It comes after the Rock welcomed a second Australian politician in a month. New South Wales politician Walt Secord met with the Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia, who briefed him on Gibraltarian parliamentary practices. His visit follows that of Alexander Downer last month.
Checking in! New Gib flights
THE UK will be even easier to get to with a new route between Gatwick and Gibraltar starting on May 28. In time for the summer season, British Airways will operate the flight daily, except Tuesdays. It is set to run to September 29, with 2,000plus seats offered weekly. There will also be an additional 11 weekly flights from Heathrow during the summer.
“This is fantastic news for Gibraltar, with much needed capacity left behind by Monarch Airlines being filled up by British Airways,” said Minister for Tourism, Gilbert Licudi. “Gatwick is Gibraltar’s busiest route and these additional weekly services highlight the demand on this route.” He added: “This shows British Airways confidence in the Gibraltar market.”
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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 Moving on up The success story of Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, the new Deputy Mayor if Israel, is one which all Gibraltarians can get behind. Liberal Fleur attributes her inclusive politics to growing up on the Rock and despite obtaining Israeli citizenship, she is immensely proud of where she grew up. We would like to wish Fleur the best of luck in her new role in Israel and we are confident that she can continue to be a powerful force for inclusivitity in a country gripped by scandal. Fleur is next back in Gibraltar in February to visit her mother and sister Marlene. She can expect a hero’s welcome.
“I’M really trying to bring a little bit of Gibraltar to the Middle East,” the astute Fleur Hassan-Nahoum confides in me, chuckling lightly. While the comment is a light-hearted one, the eldest daughter of Sir Joshua Hassan’s second wife is deadly serious that her adopted home of Israel could learn a lot from life on the Rock. “I had a very healthy childhood in Gibraltar,” she continues. “We lived a life of co-existence which is something that I have tried to bring into my work here in Israel. “The fact that my father was a Jewish man and could be elected by a Catholic country was fantastic, and something you won’t find in many places across the globe. “The fact that everybody respects everyone’s religion and heritage and even appreciates it, is so idyllic. “To come to the Middle East where it is totally the opposite, that was a bit of a shock,” she adds, in something of an understatement. It has certainly been a dramatic start of the year for Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, 44, the third oldest daughter of the longest-serving
Campo chaos The increase in drug trafficking across the Campo has not come as a shock to those living in its towns and cities. Despite alleged police crackdowns gangs are operating with increased freedom as Spanish police resources are allocated instead to Catalunya and the migrant crisis. While the beleaguered Spanish police are doing their best to combat organised crime, they can only do as much as they can with limited resources available. The police should therefore not be entirely blamed for the increase in drug smuggling. Here at the Gibraltar Olive Press we urge residents of the Campo, and also Gibraltar, to be as vigilant as possible regarding criminal activity. Just one small tip-off or piece of information can lead to the bust of a major international criminal organisation whose product causes violence, social unrest and environmental damage. It is in all of our interests. Publisher/ Editor
Jon Clarke jon@theolivepress.es
Newsdesk newsdesk@theolivepress.es Tel: (+34) 665 798 618 News editor
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CHILDHOOD: With Dad, Sir Joshua
Gibraltarian leader. She has just been elected as the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem on behalf of the Yerushalmin party. This is no mean feat. Hassan-Nahoum - who grew up on the Rock - only made aliyah (citizenship) to Israel in 2001 and she is the first Gibraltarian (or, indeed Brit) to hold a senior political position in the embattled state. Hassan-Nahoum ran on what the Israeli media described as an ‘Orthodox feminist’ mandate. The term sees Hassan-Nahoum let out another gentle laugh. “Yes, that is what they called me,” she says warmly. The Gibraltarian prefers to refer to her policies as being both traditional ( ‘yes, it is true that I am a religious woman’) but also pluralistic and somewhat liberal in nature. She believes growing up as Sir Joshua’s daughter taught her to respect every member of her electorate, above all else. “I can’t imagine it’s a coincidence that both my sister (Independent MP Marlene Hassan Nahon) and I are in politics. “My father was already Chief Minister when I was born so I grew up seeing the good and ugly side of politics – I knew what I was letting myself in for! “I saw a lot of his achievements and I also saw a dedication to public service. It defi-
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PORTRAIT: Fleur with her mum and dad
January 17th - January 30th 2018
Why Jerusalem’s new deputy mayor is using Gibraltar as a blueprint for integration in Israel, discovers Joe Wallen
Dame of the Rock
MY CV Her rise and rise
Fleur Hassan-Nahoum got into politics after first training as a barrister at King’s College in London. She then got a job working at the World Jewish Relief organisation (partly dealing with refugees around the globe) in London, which made her realise that her future lay in politics. On moving to Israel in 2001, the Gibraltarian then initially worked for the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, a further non-for-profit. Seeing the difference she could make to Jewish people both in Israel and outside its borders, she finally decided to enter politics. “I got into politics as you can have a lot of impact when you change things on a policy level on a macro level. “It effects many, many more people and can hopefully improve their lives.”
nitely affected me. “One thing my dad always taught me and my sisters is that you are no more special than anybody else and everybody deserves equal rights and opportunities,” she says. “I think the world is divided into two kinds of people – those who believe in sharing their society and those who don’t. “I’m fighting on the side of a shared society in Israel, like people do in Gibraltar.” Much of her campaigning sought to woo those on the fringes of Israeli society, from Ethiopian Jews to ultraOrthodox Charedi women and provide greater employment opportunities for these minority groups. She also believes a two-state solution is the answer to the Palestinian question – but that the situation is one for Israel and Palestine to resolve, without outside interference.
She is particularly dismissive of Boris Johnson’s recent suggestion that Israel must make the two-state solution an immediate reality and face up to the actuality of its ‘apartheid system’. “I don’t think it is up to Boris to tell us how any peace deal should look,” she rebukes. “We should have the say on what our borders will look like, not a British Foreign Secretary.” Conversely, she embraced the recent recognition given by Donald Trump when affirming Jerusalem as the rightful capital of the Israeli state. “Absolutely, we welcomed it, even if it does nothing more than confirm a reality which already exists on the ground,” she enthuses. “Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, always has been, every independent country should have the right to choose its own
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Fe at u re WAILING WALL: In Jerusalem and (left) Temple Mount, one of the world’s holiest sites
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Statistics for: January 5th to January 15th Gibraltar schoolgirl reaches semi -final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views
A TALE OF TWO SISTERS: Fleur and Marlene in North London and (inset) today
capital. “It is not just the capital of the state of Israel but also the capital of the Jewish people and it has been for thousands of years. “Yes, I’m very happy that they gave us that recognition. “Did we need it? No. “Is it significant geopolitically? Yes.” As of the 128 nations who voted to condemn the Trump’s decision, she is unmoved. “The UN is a morally-warped organisation which sanitises world dictatorships,” she retorts. “When you have Venezuela and Libya on a human rights committee then you know you are doing something wrong. “The fact that member states didn’t vote for us will not keep me up at night – we know who we are.” The Israeli state has also been recently criticised by the UNHCR over its plans to put African refugees in indefinite detention if they haven’t left the country by April. She believes her country falls way short in its treatment of those already arrived and that some immigration is beneficial. “We don’t treat refugees how they should be treated properly here, legally and also on a humanitarian level,” she said. “A lot of my friends are involved with this fight and I support them 100%. “It is too small a country to have a flood of refugees, we just wouldn’t be able to cope. “But the ones who are already here should be given their rights as refugees and human beings and integrated into our society.
“We need foreign labour – Israelis don’t do the building jobs or the cleaning jobs that they are prepared to do.” While it has been a whirlwind year for Fleur, she has no intention to rest on her
laurels. She is targeting a future representing Israel internationally, such as in an ambassadorial position at the UN. “Israel’s public relations are atrocious and the reason for that is because the campaigns all come from a political background,” she states. “We are seen as war criminals in the foreign media and I don’t blame them completely - it comes from our crappy PR. “My first motive for getting into politics was to help people and now I intend to become an important figure for Israel in terms of how we are represented internationally.” While Fleur’s home is very much Jerusalem – she lives there happily with her husband Adam, and her four children - Gibraltar will always be close to her heart. She was on the Rock as recently as November and plans to visit again in February. “Gibraltarians are the most kind and helpful people,” she says smiling earnestly. “People are warm – they will always reach out to you, they have an amazing sense of community. “Whenever you meet someone from Gibraltar you can always tell because they are nice, friendly, kind and they want to help. “That is the character of Gibraltar. “It truly has made me who I am.”
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-final of Spanish TV talent show 3065 views
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ibraltar and the Sixth Extinction, January 18
RENOWNED Gibraltarian academic and author Stuart Finlayson will discuss what we can do to help save our wildlife’s future. Entrace is free for the lecture which will take place at John Mackintosh Hall.
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raft and Collectors Fair, January 27
A COLLECTION of stalls will be selling unique vintage and antique items, bric-a-brac and collectables. Entrace to the fair at St Andrews Church is just £1 and refreshments are available. MarineA4.pdf 1 02/10/2012 08:58:04
January 17th - January 30th 2018
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Talk of the town
ars Tharp: The Gate Of Heroes: On The China Trail, January 17
ANTIQUES Roadshow presenter Lars Thorp will deliver a fascinating lecture on the signs and meanings in Chinese art. The talk will take place at the Garrison Library and will be £12 on the door.
la cultura c ampo
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GOLDEN YEAR: Sir Joe
A Star Wars and Harry Potter actor is set to visit Gibraltar for this year’s International Comic Convention. Michael Henbury Ballan, famous for playing the role of the Ewok in Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, will speak about his experience in the film industry. Henbury Ballan has also played a Gringotts Goblin in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, a goblin corpse in Labyrinth and a hedgehog in the Chronicles of Narnia. Timothy Russ, who is best known for his portrayal of Lieutenant Commander Tuvok
IT is already turning out to be quite the year for former Chief Minister Sir Joe Bossano. After being knighted in the Queen’s 2018 New Year Honours, it has been announced that Bossano will be one of the headliners for this year’s GibTalks in February. He will be joined by the Leader of the opposition in parliament, Elliott Phillips, and the Mayor of Gibraltar Kaiane Aldorino Lopez
in heading up the eminent list of speakers. THE history and development The talks are based on the sucof fashion design in Gibraltar cessful TED – Technology, Enteris set to be celebrated in an uptainment, Design – series of talks coming exhibition. which aim to bring industry ex‘Rock Fashion Rocks!’ will experts together to share their ideas plore the evolution of trends on on how the world can be made the Rock from the 1980s until into a better place. Download app now andthrough phothe our present day GibTalks aims to bring local figand videos. enjoying thesketches best Spanish ures together, from across the po- begin tographs, the designs on show litical spectrum, for a day of fasci- news Among on the go. will be work by the late Johnny nating insight and debate. Pearce and Eduardo Viotto. The exhibition will be held at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery from January 31 to February 17.
Star quality in Star Trek: Voyager, will also be appearing at the convention. Further to the actors’
highly anticipated appearances there will be interactive seminars, workshops, exhibits, CosPlay, e-Gaming and live action role playing. “We are very much looking forward to seeing the community come together and enjoy themselves in an environment free from judgment, where we can all be ourselves or someone else for a change, for a day, two or three,” said Joanna Jadczak of the International Comic Convention.
Welcoming
“The people of Gibraltar are some of the most welcoming and kind people and this can be felt every step of the way. “This combined with a large number of fantastic guests and our unique geographic loction, influenced by various cultures and historic events, makes it a truly fantastic convention.” Genres will include
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Artiversary GIBRALTARIAN artists have been invited to submit their artwork to a special anniversary exhibition organised by the Royal Academy of Art in London. This year’s Royal Academy Summer Exhibition is the 250th since its conception and its theme will be ‘Art Made Now’, exploring the diversity of modern art. Artists have been invited to submit digital images of their artwork by February 14 for a first round of assessment.
FORCE: Henbury Ballan
horror, animation, manga, toys, collectable card games, video games, webcomics and fantasy novels. An ‘Artist Alley’ will also be held at the convention, where comic artists, creators, writers and illustrators are invited to showcase their work and share ideas. There are a limited number of early bird tickets available for £27 online on http:// gibraltarinternationalcomiccon.com/ shop/
WANTED
Regulated and authorised by the Gibraltar Financial Services Comission, to conduct insurance mediation. 10/2012
ON TREND: Viotto
Qualify
Any local artists who qualify for the second round of assessment will have to send the original copy of their work to the UK. The Gibraltar Cultural Services has agreed to fund the cost of transporting art work. The Summer Exhibition will be chaired by Grayson Perry and will run from June 12 to August 19.
WORLD CLASS: Perry
HOUSEKEEPER who enjoys cooking and likes to take care of the household as if it where her/his own. Availability of a house on the domain that is fully equipped and maintained which guarantees privacy. DEVOTION and MOTIVATION is a MUST. Driving license required or willing to obtain one. Good contract. Marbella area. E-mail: pierre.bettens@telenet.be or call: 0032 477 284 460
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BEACH READY Five easy exercises to get your body in shape for the summer SEE PAGE 12
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OR many expats, the thought of not whetting the whistle for a whole month is too much to bear. But many don’t know just how big an impact taking part in Dry January can have on their health. Not only will it leave you with a fuller wallet and a few less hungover mornings, but it will improve your overall health tremendously in a very short period of time. In a recent study by New Scientist, 10 people had no alcohol for 31 days while doctors monitored their vitals. Every test subject lost weight and, incredibly, liver fat - which is behind many disaeaes dropped by an average 15%. The study reads: “Then came another surprise. “The blood glucose levels of the abstainers dropped by 16% on average, from 5.1 to 4.3 millimoles per litre. “The normal range for blood glucose is between 3.9 and 5.6 mmol/l. ‘I was staggered,’ says Kevin Moore, consultant in liver health services at UCLMS. ‘I don't think anyone has ever Alcohol can observed that before.’” suppres your Meanwhile, immune system total blood a which can make cholesterol, risk factor for illness more likely heart disease, dropped by almost 5%, while ratings of sleep quality rose by just over 10%. Nick Sheron at the University of Southampton said: "These results show that even a relatively short period of abstinence impacts on the liver." Given the cold weather, it’s important to add how giving up the drink can help you fight off colds. Alcohol can suppress your immune system, which might hinder your ability to fight off an illness. Even one night of too much drinking— in this case, drinking until you’re drunk—can interfere with your body’s ability to produce cytokines, or chemicals that help fight off infections, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol can also act as a diuretic, which can increase fluid loss and lead to dehydration, possibly damaging the skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Plus, adds Dr. Wakim-Fleming, when people stop drinking, they get more calories from foods; this tends to improve their vitamin intake, which can also make their skin appear healthier. So, if you look younger, fight off colds better, improve your liver and have a bit more cash in your wallet, maybe giving up alcohol for a month isn’t so bad.
fit 2018 January 17th - January 30th 2018
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January 17th- January 30th 2018
TEA TIME What you should be drinking instead of PG Tips this year SEE PAGE 15
Give it a dry!
Laying off the booze has immediate health benefits and can save money in the process
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January 17th - January 30th 2018
January 17th- January 30th 2018
tion treatment in a very private, uvenating environment.
Rehab Goes digital A
help you because we adapt all our expertise to your personal situation r – with the pure and simple aim of LEADING Malaga rehab clinic is one ofresults. the Marbella addiction clinic to achieving effective first in Spain to go digital. Villa Paradiso, based in Marbella, has paired offer pioneering online support f Another core element with tech firm Karify to provide online round- of our addiction the-clock support to its patients. The Netherlands has seen so much success with other features, theis newabsolute software will allow privacy, incorporating E-mental health into their rehab centreatment luxury and pain Among patients and prospective patients to identify their tres that 40% of therapy sessions now contain an and access online support modules. of digital care. res triggers discretion, which is whyelement Villa Paradiso Geraldine Darby, Clinic Manager This has resulted in a higher intake at Villa Paradiso said: "We believe of addicts, less relapses and lower aftercare and continuouscentre in Spain is drop-out rates. rehabilitation preferred hat inworkstrong The new software on each client's recovery. Villa Paradiso has many years of “With Karify from the minute we will allow patients experience in the field of addiction. by high profile anonymity discussed our working relation- people who seek Their professional treatment takes to identify their place in a marvellous villa in the ship between our two companies, it was soon apparent we had the beautiful Marbella. and a place in which to and be at ease andPrivacy and distriggers same attitude and belief in how cretion, together with personalised important ongoing support for our care, are, after all, the central eleaccess support focus on taking back control of their lives. clients is. ments of their treatment. “We were very pleased to be in"We will use Karify at the beginning formed Karify has implementof the assessment process, letting Wethatoffer this without compromise within ed a system to allow us to input our own personal clients use it and identify some of the issues or trigonline support modules and work with us to plat- gers that have brought them to want to engage in aourbeautiful, setting in added Marbella. form recovery model and sunny onward support." treatment,” Darby, “letting them feel comfortThe E-mental approach allows for therapy sessions to be combined with online contact, exercises and education.
able and understand the work we do. This helps to add extra vital support and build up a connection ready for them to feel comfortable to enter treatment."
ould like professional advice or more la Paradiso does to help its clients, Are elephone, Whatsapp or email.
Assessment Detoxification Psychotherapy Treatment Planning One to One Therapy Group Therapy 12 Steps Nutrition Physical Exercise Holistic Therapies
We offer effective addiction treatment in a very private, discreet and rejuvenating environment. At the heart of what we offer is understanding – an appreciation of your needs, problems and how to help you overcome addiction, whether that be from drugs, alcohol or any other type of addiction. Villa Paradiso in Marbella, Spain is not a clinic with set medical procedures but a place of peace and rejuvenation that is run by a highly experienced, skilled and dedicated team of experts. Each and every person is different, so each addiction is too. We are able to
help you because we adapt all our expertise to your personal situation – with the pure and simple aim of achieving effective results. Another core element of our addiction treatment is absolute privacy, luxury and discretion, which is why Villa Paradiso rehabilitation centre in Spain is preferred by high profile people who seek anonymity and a place in which to be at ease and focus on taking back control of their lives. We offer this without compromise within a beautiful, sunny setting in Marbella.
Relaxation
If you have questions, would like professional advice or more DIGITAL DETOX: Stunning rehab centre will any now offer online support Aftercare Plan
information about what Villa Paradiso does to help its clients, contact us now by telephone, Whatsapp or email.
24/7 Manned Support Line: (+34) 689 806 769
24h Admission Line: (+34) 689 806 769 UK Freephone number: (+44) 808 1646848 info@villaparadisospain.com www.villaparadisospain.com
you or someone you love struggling with addiction?
Line: (+34) 689 806 769 mber: (+44) 808 1646848 Assessment aradisospain.com Detoxification aradisospain.com Psychotherapy
STOP DRUGS
Treatment Planning One to One Therapy Group Therapy 12 Steps Nutrition
If you think drugs or alcohol abuse will go away by itself...
IT WON’T
Physical Exercise Holistic Therapies Relaxation Aftercare Plan
24/7 Manned Support Line: (+34) 689 806 769
Recovery Help Line 24hr Help for Substance & Alcohol Abuse, Problem Gambling and Mental Health
Telephone: (+34) 689 806 769 Confidential Support info@villaparadisospain.com www.villaparadisospain.com
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The crown prince
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INDING the right dentist can be difficult. With so many operations from fillers to crowns to caps, you need something that will last and not cost a small fortune. That’s where Dr Jean Casado’s Smile & More Dental Clinic comes in. A man who has travelled the world in pursuit of perfecting his craft.
iBad S ocial media addiction and substance abuse have more in common than you think. Scrolling affects our brains in a similar way to taking cocaine, according to startling new research. Looking at your social media feeds activates the amygdala, an almond-shaped part of the brain involved with emotions, decision-making and compulsive behaviour. The brain patterns produced are similar to those seen in the brains of people addicted to cocaine. In a study by California State University, participants were also found to respond to Facebook stimuli faster than they did road signs. “This is scary since it means that users might respond to a Facebook message on their mobile device before reacting to traffic conditions if they are using technology while on the road,” said Professor Ofir Turel. “The good news, is that the behaviour can be corrected with treatment. We speculate that addictive behaviour in this case stems from low motivation to control the behaviour, which is due partly to the relatively benign societal and personal consequences of technology overuse, compared to, say, substance abuse,” continued Turel. But are consequences truly benign or is there a darker side to social media? Only this month it was reported that a 14-year-old girl in Australia committed suicide after being bullied online. Dolly Everett had previously starred in
How buying your child a smartphone is like offering them a line of cocaine
the adverts of hat firm Akubra, aged eight. Meanwhile a 2016 Spanish study of more than 21,000 12 to 16-year-olds conducted by Save the Children suggested that 82,000 children have been victims of cyberbullying. The anonymity and distance the internet offers make it harder for people to feel empathy, experts say. But while committing suicide is an extreme reaction, as with any type of bullying feelings of anxiety, fear, depression and low esteem can all build up. Statistics from a 2015 report show that children who spend three hours or more on social media are more than twice as likely to suffer mental health issues. Child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr Hayley Van Zwanberg said: “Children are totally immersed in a virtual world which is damaging both to the way they see themselves and the way they perceive the real world; some young children are finding it hard to unpick reality from fantasy.” “Children’s social skills and abilities to make small talk and actively listen, and develop empathy, are affected,” she said. And with these life skills being eroded, a catch-22 situation starts to occur. The less a child can physically communicate with peers, the more they rely upon online contact. So with the new year chimes still ringing our ears, perhaps mental wellness should be at the top of this year’s resolution list.
ALL SMILES: Dr Casado at Sotogrande clinic
Born in Saudi Arabia, Casado chose Sotogrande as the place to put down roots, bringing the best in the business for modern dental treatments. “Our industry has changed immensely over the last 10 years and with my own X-ray machine everything can be done in-house,” he told the Olive Press. Fluent in English, Spanish, Italian and French, the University of Lyon graduate is a dentist for the modern age.
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Get your abs in shape with these five simple exercises
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January 17th - January 30th 2018
Beach
he new year is the perfect time to kickstart a new regime after overindulging over the festive period. And with five months until
summer, there’s no reason you can’t have that washboard stomach in time for the beach.
Here are some easy-to-do cises that will help you figh bulge, all from the comfo your own home, terrace o beach!
1. Arms-High Partial Situp
Lie on your back, knees bent at 90 degrees, an arms straight overhead, keeping them pointing out the exercise. Sit up halfway, then steadily r floor. That’s one rep.
1. Downward Dog to Knee Hold This full-body move is a great way to increase your range of motion as well as give some extra love to your oblique muscles. A. Start in a straight-arm plank position. Press hips up and back into downward dog. Lift right leg in air behind body. B. Exhale and move into plank position and bring right knee to right elbow. Then press back into downward dog position. Do 3 sets of 10 reps on each side.
3. Woodchopper This is a strength and cardio move — double win. A. Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and hold one medium-weight dumbbell to the outside of right hip. B. Drive hips back and lower into a squat. This is the starting position. C. Begin to stand tall, come on to ball of right foot and twist at torso to bring weight across chest and above left shoulders. Return to start. Do 3 sets of 15 reps on each side
2. Flutter Kick
Lie on your back with legs straight and arms ex your sides. Lift your heels about 6 inches off th rapidly kick your feet up and down in a quick, motion
5. Hollow Body Hold Think about pulling your belly button down toward your spine instead of pushing your stomach out. A. Start lying on back with arms and legs extended. Zip legs together and slowly lift arms, shoulders, and legs off floor while keeping the lower back pressing against the ground.
2. Side Forearm Plank With Twist Adding a little rotational work forces you to engage more muscles than by simply holding a plank, it’s a little sneaky extra credit for your abs. A. Start in side forearm plank on left side with right hand behind head. B. Keep hips lifted and rotate torso toward floor to bring right elbow to ground. Do 3 sets of 10 reps on each side.
B. Hold for 10-20 seconds, then lower back to ground. Repeat 5 times.
4. Bird Dog This move focuses on lower back strength and balance. The first few reps may leave you feeling a little awkward and off balance, but the more you do them, the more control you'll have. A. Start on all fours with wrists below shoulders and knees below hips. B. Extend left leg behind body without arching back. Hold for 10 seconds then return to start. Do 3 sets of 10 reps on each side.
3. Spiderman Plan Crunch
- Start in a traditional plank position wi arms on the ground and your body perfec - Bring your right knee forward toward y bow, then return to the plank position. - Repeat by bringing your left knee towa elbow. - That’s one rep. Alternate sides for a tota plete reps
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4. Cross Crunch - Lie on your back with arms and legs diagonally out so that your body forms an “X.” - Keeping arms and legs straight, bring your right hand toward your left foot, then your left hand toward your right foot, lifting your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground. - That’s one rep. Aim for one complete set of 10 reps.
New Can’t year,sleep? new me! January 17th - January 30th 2018
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Lose weight and make 2018 your
How you may have ayear common disorder andPlan. not with Cambridge Weight even know MOST of us need six to eight hours of sleep per night to feel refreshed however some people feel continually tired, no matter how many hours they spend in bed. You may be surprised to hear that these symptoms may not necessarily be the result of an enthusiastic lifestyle. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a common under-diagnosed condition which results in insufficient quality deep sleep whilst you are apparently ‘asleep’ in bed. The disorder is characterized by daytime sleepiness, fatigue, a frequent desire for naps, morning headaches, irritability, insomnia, poor memory and concentration and arises from obstruction and collapse of the air passages during ‘sleep’. In turn this leads to complete cessation of breathing for periods of 10 seconds or more (Apnoea) during which time no air can pass to the lungs. Low blood oxygen levels result in the sufferer coming out of deep (restful) sleep and into a more shallow (un-restful) level of sleep. The cycle of events can repeat itself many times during the night, completely destroying normal sleep patterns and in some severe cases, sufferers can wake up completely. In less severe cases airways are only partially obstructed and whilst airflow may only fall to 50% of normal (hypopnoea) this also significantly disrupts the level of sleep. Most sufferers experience a mixture of both apnoea and hypopnoea whilst they are “asleep”. It is estimated that OSA affects up to 4% of the general population with men suffering more commonly than women in the under 50 yr age group. Obesity is a major risk factor for OSA with 70% of obese people experiencing the condition which worsens in severity as the BMI increases. More shockingly, only 10% of people with OSA are currently receiving treatment. Whilst Benjamin Franklin may have been right when he said ‘fatigue is the best pillow’, no matter how good the mattress and pillow are
other factors than these should be considered for a poor night’s sleep. Disruption of sleep is extremely detrimental to our daily lives and results in poor concentration, slow thinking and poor memory. Studies have shown that this can result in more accidents in the work place and OSA sufferers have a three-fold increased risk of having a car accident. Untreated OSA is also associated with an increased risk of a number of other medical conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke, heart failure and cardiac rhythm abnormalities which may lead to premature death. Diagnosis of the condition involves a simple subjective medical assessment which allows potential sufferers to be graded against the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Combined with overnight non-invasive measurement of blood oxygen levels this is a simple reliable way of identifying the condition, all within the comfort of your own bedroom. The mainstay of treatment involves the nocturnal use of a small portable machine which blows humidified air into the lungs during sleep (CPAP) which prevents the airways from collapsing thus maintaining a clear passage for air to enter the lungs. This ensures that sufferers remain in deep sleep for much longer periods during the night and wake refreshed in the morning ready to face the challenges of the day. Most people who suffer from OSA do not realise they have the condition and can blame their symptoms on the pressures of work and their social lives. Indeed the952 fatigue of untreated T: +34 586 324 OSA can lead to problems at work and within the fame: info@cwpespana.es ily. Ironically bed partners of individuals with OSA may also experience similar fatigue and irritation w: www.cwpespana.es symptoms because of sleep interruption despite being well! Treatment not only Callecompletely Joan Baptista Baset i Ramos 10,reduces the risk of complications arising from the condition El Campello, Alicante 03560 but also ensures a much happier, fully awake and enjoyable working and family life.
New year, new me! Lose weight and make 2018 your year with Cambridge Weight Plan.
5. Bicycle Crunch - Lie on your back with your hands behind your head, and your legs raised and bent at 90°. - Alternate sides by bringing your right elbow toward your left knee, then your left elbow toward your right knee, building up to 60 seconds. - Try and hold the crunch for a two-count on each side to force a slower, concentrated movement.
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T: +350 200 49999 e: Cambridge.800@smg.gi w: www.cwpespana.es
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January 17th - January 30th 2018
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ONE year on and New Styles Hair and Beauty continues to dominate, offering the best beauty treatments on the coast. The salon is the brainchild of Lynn Montgomery, who, having learnt the tricks-ofthe-trade in Ireland, hopes to turn it into a recognised brand. ‘Five star service at normal prices’ is their motto and with over 11 different treatments there really is something for everyone. Located in Benalmadena, the salon specialises in eyebrow shaping, exten-
sions, and pedicures and if you need a deep-tissue massage they’ve got that covered to. “Having set up shop a year ago the response has been fantastic,” Lynn told the Olive Press. Dubliner Montgomery says the Costa del Sol has it all. “Everything from the weather, the people and lifestyle is a dream. “I absolutely love it and you couldn’t pay me to go back to Ireland,” she admits proudly.
World leaders
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PAIN is officially the world leader in organ transplants. There were 5,259 transplants carried out in the country last year, breaking the 2016 record of 4,818, according to figures from the National Transplant Organisation (ONT). Some 3,269 were kidney, 1,247 were liver, 363 were lungs, 304 were hearts,70 were pancreas and eight were intestines. Spain saw 46.9 individual donors per million people (pmp) in 2017, an increase from 43.9
pmp in 2016 and 39.7 pmp in 2015. The figure is ‘much higher’ than the EU average (19.6) and the US average (26.6). The American Journal of Transplantation cited Spain as a model from which other countries have a lot to learn. Spain’s health minister Dolors Montserrat said it was the 26th consecutive year that Spain had been top of global rankings for transplants. “These are the very best results in the history of the ONT, both
in organ donation and in transplants,” she said. “In the last three years the donation rate per million population has increased by 30 percent, something extraordinary when starting from a situation of excellence and if you take into account how difficult it is to be a successful donor in the current epidemiological circumstances.” Rafael Matesanz, founder of
the ONT, discussing Spain’s success, said ‘good organisation in the process of deceased donation and continuous adaptations of the system to changes are always the basis of successful results in organ donation’. Spain operates an ‘opt-out’ system in which all citizens are automatically registered for organ donation unless they choose to state otherwise.
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Down T to a tea
January 17th- January 30th 2018
The seven healthy teas you should be drinking this year
1. Oolong Oolong tea activates enzymes that cut down triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood. One study showed that women who consumed oolong tea burned a slightly larger amount of fat than those who drank only water. Oolong tea is more than just a fat burner, though. It also contains niacin, which helps detoxify the body, and antioxidants that can prevent tooth decay.
2. Black Black tea is one of the most highly caffeinated varieties of tea, with about 40 milligrams of caffeine per cup. Black tea also contains thearubigins and theaflavins, two types of antioxidants that have
HE Brits love their cups of tea, but when they’re full of sugar and fattening dairy milk, the health benefits don’t exatly spill over. Below we have rounded up the best teas that will help your heart, liver and bodily functions and most importantly stop you from dunking calorific biccies.
been linked to lower cholesterol levels. Plus, drinking three or more cups of black tea a day can cut your risk of stroke by 21 percent.
3. Green Green tea is an excellent source of catechins, another type of antioxidant. A subgroup of this compound known as EGCG has been studied for its potential role in preventing cancer and heart disease. One study showed that drinking one cup of green tea per day could decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease by 10 percent.
according to the American Cancer Society.
4. White White tea, with its many proven health benefits, is the ultimate multi-tasker of teas. Much like green tea, white tea contains catechins, which may help fight cancer and cardiovascular disease. Drinking white tea might also reduce the risk of cancer recurrence for breast cancer survivors,
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5. Chamomile Chamomile tea is an ancient natural remedy with many health benefits. Research shows that the antioxidants in chamomile tea may help stunt the growth of cancer cells and prevent diabetes side effects such as loss of vi-
sion, nerve damage and kidney damage. Unlike the teas mentioned above, chamomile tea is made from the flowers of the chamomile plant.
6. Echinacea Echinacea purpurea is a commonly used natural compound that fights illnesses such as the common cold and other respiratory infections. One study showed that consuming Echinacea in tea or lozenge form over a four-month period helped to prevent infections.
7. Lemon ginger tea Ginger has an active ingredient called zingiber, and lemon contains the immuneboosting compounds pectin and limonene. This epic duo makes lemon ginger tea an effective weapon against bacterial infections. One study shows that drinking lemon ginger tea can even kill the bacteria linked to salmonella!
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THE number of unemployed people in the Campo has fallen by several thousand in just one year. The region registered a total of 32,091 people as being out of work in December 2017, which was 2,000 fewer than the same month in 2016.
RBS bank will no longer process transfers made by the Gibraltar International Bank (GIB) if the company involved does any business in cryptocurrency. Download our app now and The move is a blow for the begin enjoying GIB, which previously an- the best Spanish nounced it would newsaccept on the go. accounts from companies using distributed ledger technology (DLT).
Back to work The drop has been attributed to the continued recovery of the Spanish economy and local infrastructural investment, such as in the Bay of Algeciras. All towns in the region report-
ed drops in unemployment except Jimena and Castellar de la Frontera. There remain 14,000 people unemployed in Algeciras and just under 8,500 in La Linea, according to the Spanish state public employment service SEPE.
Miami nice Paul Astengo
It comes as Gibraltar aims to attract businesses using will lead the DLT to the Rock following party who Olive Press the introductionThe of new industry regulations on are looking to TOP for news in Spain!business January 1. attract The GIB will now be forced to look for another to Gibraltar bank in the UK prepared from to process its transactions REPRESENTATIVES Gibraltar will attend the from companies involved World Blockchain Forum in in DLT. Miami next week in an at-
GIB: On the lookout
tempt to raise awareness of the Rock as a leading fintech hub. The party will be led by Paul Astengo, the Senior Executive at Gibraltar Finance and he will be joined by individuals working with distributed ledger technology (DLT) on the Rock. The visit to Miami is expected to
lockhead
ASTENGO: Looking to appeal to businesses be the first of many similar trips this year, with the Gibraltarian government looking to take advantage of its recent DLT regulation to attract business. “Gibraltar has rightly received significant international recognition for the trailblazing
By Christopher Cousins of Igniteratings.com
‘History repeats itself...’ The first edition of Christopher’s new series is titled ‘East India Share’ and explains how the East India Company is really to thank for the modern IPO
M
any of us might think IPOs were started on Wall Street by JP Morgan and his crew, but the reality is that these guys are relative newcomers to the show. The first IPO was issued in Amsterdam in the 1600s by the East India Company. This issue was direct to market, they owned the exchange and it was purpose built for that listing. The East India ICO was actually more of an index then a stock, as it encompassed a variety of companies or, in this case, ships. The story goes like this: in the 1600s imports from Asia were all the rage...tea, spices, silk, gold, you name it, Europe could not have enough of them. If you were a switched-on investor in those days and wanted "in" on this business you simply helped finance the voyage. When the ship you backed returned to Europe — the goods were sold and everyone made money, at least in theory. The reality was somewhat different. In the 1600s shipping had some issues and many ships never made it to port. The ocean was not such a friendly place back then — pirates, bad navigation, wars, drunk sailors, mutiny all took their toll on investors' profits. Win some, lose some...so they say. Luckily, the market came up with a clever solution. Simply pool all the ships together, get the government to recognise your monopoly
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January 17th - January 30th 2018
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Attract
January 17th - January 30th 2018
and pay out a dividend to all shareholders. BOOM, now you have instant diversification. Obviously the fund raise was pretty significant, so it was not as easy as ringing up a few friends, so a new method was devised: a "public stock offering". The issuance of the East India Company share certificates not only created a quasi governmental agency that ruled trade for the better part of a century, it started a new financial movement. The East India offering was not so different to any ICO or IPO today as issuers still favour the wealthy. Think I'm wrong? Try to open an account at Goldman and try to get an allocation on the next hot IPO. You won't. The reality is that it is simply easier to sell your shares to 1,000 investors then 1,000,000 and today it is a nice way for bankers to reward customers that generate a lot of revenue in commissions. So, like today, the big investors got the lion's share of the East India Company. On the IPO the East India company issued about $100,000,000 worth of stock (in today's dollars), to the grand total of...1,143 investors! Then, it did not take long for those Barons to flip their shares to many smaller traders, creating a secondary market frenzy to "get in" on the action!
work undertaken in developing the world’s first DLT regulatory framework,” the Minister for Commerce, Albert Isola, told the Gibraltar Olive Press. “The commencement of legalisation in early January 2018
was a very important milestone and effectively marked the start point of further targeted work promoting our jurisdiction. “Pleasingly the interest seen in 2017 has already begun to translate into new license applications.” Over 3,000 industry delegates are expected to attend the conference at the James L Knight Centre. Speakers will include Brock Pierce, the Chairman of the Bitcoin Foundation and Patrick M. Byrne the CEO of Overstock.com, the first major online retailer to accept bitcoin as a form of payment. The conference is expected to cover a wide range of topics from blockchain technology, to regulation, start-ups and Bitcoin and Ethereum.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Selling out MARKERSTUDY has agreed a deal to sell its Gibraltar-based insurance companies, including Zenith Insurance and Ultimate Insurance Company, to Qatar Reinsurance.
Good stock THE Gibraltar Stock Exchange has announced it has joined the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance, which will connect Fortune 500 companies and startups on the Rock with fintech experts.
Cashing in THE Gibraltar Stock Exchange has announced it will issue $6 million worth of digital ‘Rock Tokens’ via blockchain technology at an online sale event between February 7 to 14.
Helping hand GIBRALTAR based writer, Tina Andlaw has launched a new website, Compelling Copy, to help small businesses with tailored content for a small price.
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One-stop shop A NEW app linking residents and tourists to the best local businesses in Gibraltar is set to launch this month. CityGuide will allow members of the public to search for businesses, see their contact details and leave feedback. In return, firms will be able to publish offers and advertise discounts to consumers.
Tourists
The app will also list the locations of ATMs, petrol stations, tourist sites, taxis and public toilets for those visiting Gibraltar. “This offers lots of information to locals and tourists - it’s a onestop shop for anyone looking for a local tradesman or a tourist looking for lunch, for example,” said founder Jake Julian. “We encourage small businesses, especially businesses that might be hard to find beyond the main routes in town, to contact us.”
Buffet has confirmed he will not deal in the cryptocurrency due to uncertainty over its future AMERICAN billionaire Warren Buffet has said he isn’t investing in bitcoin because a ‘bad ending’ is inevitable. Buffet is considered to be the second richest man in the US with an estimated fortune of $86 billion, having built his fortune up through long-term investments. “In terms of cryptocurrencies, generally, I can say with almost certainty that they will come to a bad ending,” he told CNBC. “When it happens or how or anything else, I don’t
BUSINESS
Bitcoin ‘will end badly’ know. “If I could buy a five-year punt on every one of the cryptocurrencies, I’d be glad to do it but I would never short a dime’s
NEW: Business app
L a w y e r s
worth. “Why in the world should I take a long or short position in something I don’t know anything about?” However, Buffet’s comBILLIONAIRE: Buffet
Protection fund ANDALUCIA has called for the EU to create a fund to help European regions that will be affected by Brexit. The fund is part of a drive to protect the tourist industry, the lifeblood of many areas of southern Spain, which Britons are the largest contributor to.
CHARLES GOMEZ & COMPANY
January 17th - January 30th 2018
Alexander Goransson, tourism specialist at Euromonitor said: “Tourism expenditure to Spain stood at €55billion in 2016. “Some €14 billion of that came from the UK - that’s 26 per cent. “So we are actually the biggest contributor to the Spanish tourist economy.”
ments came after the CEO of JP Morgan said that he regretted calling Bitcoin a ‘fraud’. “The blockchain is real,” Jamie Dimon said, after he had previously considered firing employees who he discovered had traded the online currency. The price of one bitcoin is currently £10,702, down from a record high of £14,319 on December 16.
Leading Lady: Penalver
Rolling out ONE of Gibraltar’s leading businesswomen has been appointed a director of the food and drinks company, the Hunter Group. Dominique Penalver, who has been with the company for 13 years, is an active figure in overseeing the busines’s, expansion in recent years.
Launching
Founder Andy Hunter said: “Dominique has been instrumental in launching several new food and beverage outlets, most recently Bistro Point at the University of Gibraltar.” Hunter Group own a range of bars and restaurants including O’Reilly’s, The Bridge Bar & Grill, Jury’s Cafe & Wine Bar, Gibraltar Arms, Star Bar, Lord Nelson, Britannia Bar, Bistro Point & Gourmet Catering.
Dedicated property specialists for a fast, thorough and affordable legal service. Email the property details to property@gomezco.gi for a free quote. T: 200 74998
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The former Ministry of Defence homes have been made available Download our app now to the public toandbuy begin enjoying the best Spanish
news on the go. hoping rently occupied by MoD GIBRALTARIANS to buy one of the Ministry personnel who will be of Defence’s ‘crown jewel’ relocating to new living houses have been given quarters at Four Corners. a first look at the new homes. Potential homeowners Attractive could not hide their ex- Anyone interested must citement as the tender submit an application by processThe got Olive under Press way February 23 but will have with viewings on January to wait until August 2019 10,11,15 andfor 16.news in Spain! to move into the longTOP The 161 houses in the sought after homes. South District are cur- The buildings will first
NEW HOME: MoD to relocate to Four Corners
be used to house athletes competing in the Island Games in July 2019.
Merry SEA masters RESIDENTS of Seamaster Lodge celebrated their first Christmas in their new homes in style with a communal feast. The inhabitants of the residential home at Mons Calpe Mews got together on December 21 for an evening of festive cheer. The Minister of Housing, Samantha Sacramento and officials from the housing department also joined in.
“The committee and tenants of Seamaster Lodge would like to thank the Minister and guests for attending our first Christmas Dinner Party, hopefully this being one of many more to come,” said Jimmy Perez, the Chairman of Seamaster Lodge. “We also want to take this opportunity to wish everyone all the best for 2018.”
“These are the crown jewels of Ministry of Defence property in Gibraltar,” said Chief Minister Fabian Picardo. “They are very attractive properties indeed and I think there will be great expectation about the possibility of finally being able to acquire one of these properties.” The homes are available to buy for Gibraltarians who must have lived on the Rock for at least ten years.
Property January - January 30th 2018 Don’t17th miss www.theolivepress.es
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Anything but a dump
Mogul’s Marbella TV debut
PAGE III
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Tivoli world makeover
PAGE V
A dedicated Spanish architect has spent more than 30 years turning a rundown cement factory into his perfect home and office space
Page XI
BAD PRACTICE I T is a practice that most property professionals had hoped was a thing of the past. But Olive Press Property can reveal that the ethically questionable practice of charging buyers as well as sellers is rearing its head again on the Costa del Sol. According to sources, at least two agents in the Marbella area have recently stung their buyers with bills of up to 5%. The so called ‘finder’s fees’ are in addition from taking commission from the seller. “It’s disgusting,” said Terra Meridiana’s Adam Neale, “I have nothing wrong with finder’s fees if you agree it with the client beforehand, but I have heard from several buyers that certain agents are adding a 5% fee with no prior warning. “It’s bad ethics and gives agents on the Costa del Sol a bad name.” Mike Smith, Chairman of Marbella-based First Choice Spain, agreed that charging potential buyers such fees was ‘ob-
EXCLUSIVE: Agents unite as some ‘bad apples’ are slapping finders fees on buyers without warning
scene’, especially when you consider they already have very high purchase taxes which are often in excess of 10%. “We as agents are paid by the sellers and we never charge a fee to a buyer,” he said, “On the whole our industry works very well as it is, without the need to start charging such high additional fees to buyers. We should be encouraging them to invest here!” Ben Bateman of Holmes in Sotogrande added he was aware of the practice happening ‘in a few cases’. “It is totally unethical and gives our business a bad reputation for sharp practices,” he said.
“I have no objection to agents operating with a finder’s fee, but I do object when these so called buyers bill both sides without declaring from the outset that they will be doing so.” He added: “When unscrupulous agents abuse the system by adding extra amounts, the whole industry suffers. “Beware of this sharp practise.” Legal expert Antonio Flores added that such practises can be deemed illegal. “It is not illegal to have your commission built into the price, with the agreement of the vendor,” he told the Olive Press. The problem is when an agent adds a commission on top but does not tell the buyer or seller. “This happens when the agent is the middle man and the parties are not in touch via their lawyers. This is actually a criminal offence.”
Have you been a victim? Email newsdesk@theolivepress.es
Granada’s new eco-village
PAGE XIV
Andalucia’s highest towns
PAGE XVII
STRUGGLING TO SELL YOUR SPANISH PROPERTY? Behind on your mortgage payments and need assistance? We know how to make your property stand out in the market and can advance funds to cover your mortgage until your property is sold. See page 16 for more details. To find out more, go to www.sellmypropertyinspain.com or call 673
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Spain will make you money SPAIN’S property market has been ranked the fourth most rewarding investment opportunity in the world. In the new 2018 ranking by AFIRE, the holiday hotspot moved from sixth in the ranking last year to fourth, leapfrogging the UK, which moved down BOOM: Spain property from third last year to fifth. With 30% of respondents’ votes, the US remains the country most likely to make you money on your property investment. Brazil took second place with just under 25% of the votes, followed by China with just over 10%. The UK fared better than Spain when it came to ranking countries which provided the most stable environment for investment. With 58% of respondents’ votes, the US remains the country considered the most stable for real estate investment. Germany again took second place with 20% of the votes, and Canada remained in third place with 12%. The UK moved into fourth from fifth, while Australia fell from fourth to fifth. London, meanwhile, shot to the top of the charts when ranking the best global cities for property investment. It was followed by New York, Berlin, Los Angeles and Frankfurt. AFIRE members are among the largest international institutional real estate investors in the world and have an estimated $2 trillion or more in real estate assets under management globally. The 26th annual survey was conducted in the fourth quarter of 2017 by the James A. Graaskamp Center for Real Estate, Wisconsin School of Business.
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LETTERS
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NO FLY zone
Pay for what you get Just back from weekend in Malaga £39.98 return. My case was put in the hold (I never rushed to be one of the first 90 under old rules) and my bag was on the carousel by the time I’d cleared immigration both ways! You don’t have to pay, they just made it easy - if you want a premium then pay for it!!!
Dave Hughes
Fair play I wish more airlines would do this. People bring ridiculous amounts of hand lug-
January 17th - January 30th 2018
Our readers react to the news that Spain has been advised to boycott Ryanair over its new ‘violating’ hand luggage rules… gage on board flights .
Penny Rector, Malta
Unbelievable A scumbag airline! How can we possibly rip off our customers in a new way? Ooh, I’ve got it! Next they will charge to use the toilet, you watch !
Calm down How pathetic! Can people not see that Ryanair do us passengers a favour by giving us cheap travel. They haven’t slapped a blanket charge on every ticket, they are giving us the option of paying a little more if we want to take our hand luggage on board.
Art Lietz, Coin
Mike RhysPonteaux
Stop complaining Get real folks, its budget. If you are not happy you should travel on another airline which will probably cost an arm and a leg !
Kirsteen Crawford, Argyll & Bute
Bring it on! At the end of the day it is a budget airline. It is still good value for money, even with the extras. And, competition on airlines is always good .
Angela Moore
Has anything piqued your interest in this week’s Gibraltar Olive Press? Have your say on the matter by emailing letters@theolivepress.es or alternatively message us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GibraltarOlivePress or Twitter @olivepress
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Food, drink & travel
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with DINING SECRETS of ANDALUCIA.com
Grimaldi: Fighting back
‘Blame Masterchef for tortilla death’ OWNERS of a Cadiz restaurant facing legal action after serving deadly tortillas have blamed TV show Masterchef. The Grimaldi bar infected over 100 people with salmonella at the Carnival of Cadiz in 2016, with one person dying as a result. But defence lawyer Felipe Melendez argued the chefs simply followed instructions from Masterchef on how to handle ingredients and prepare the dish. The lawyer also referenced another TV show in which contestants were told how to cook tortillas de patatas de Betanzos, with the winner praised for his undercooked product. Melendez has argued that his clients are innocent despite the outbreak as they had simply followed instructions from socalled TV experts. The case continues at the Court of First Instance No. 2 of Cádiz.
Fat’s army Spanish soldiers told to shift the pounds or get out
HAVING a larger belly after Christmas is all part of the fun, unless you’re in the Spanish Legion that is. Soldiers in Spain’s elite fighting force have been told to shed weight amid concerns their bellies are tarnishing the Legion’s reputation. Their low-cut shirts and rippling chests, once the envy of the country, have now become an embarrassment.
Deterioration
According to an internal report drawn up by the Legion’s Central Command (BRILEG), up to 3,000 soldiers must undergo Body Mass Index (BMI) testing. This will be followed by a programme of diet and exercise for those found to be overweight. “BRILEG finds itself immersed in a situation which demands a series of measures to reduce excess weight
TOO FAT TO FIGHT: Spanish Legion soldiers on diet among its personnel,” the report says, calling for an end to the so-called ‘difficult scenario’. It adds: “Without a greater strictness, we will be condemned to the loss of prestige as a combat unit.” The report also blames the high average age of brigade members and ‘physical deterioration, boredom with the training methods and a general social acceptance of excess weight’.
Soldiers with a BMI of more than 27 will have to go on a diet and those who fail to trim down will be put on a disciplinary. This includes being banned from military parades and other public commitments as well as the loss of bonuses, and expulsion from overseas operations. If, after a year of dieting and exercise, the soldiers still have not shed the weight, then they could be expelled from the Legion entirely.
January 17th - January 30th 2018
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Columnists
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January 17th - January 30th 2018 January 17th - January 30th 2018
Are these the world’s worst inventions? 1. The Comfort Wipe
Toilet paper had worked fine for more than 100 years when TeleBrands launched the Comfort Wipe, targeted at those spooked by touching soiled paper. The clean tissue attached itself to a wand that added up to 18 inches of reach, and a release button took care of the rest. Trials brought no flush of success and the idea went down the pan.
New Year is a time for fresh starts but some bright ideas turn out to be just plain dim, writes Belinda Beckett 4. The Auto Loo New York City was over the moon with the unveiling of its first automatic pay toilet in 2008. Patrons paid 25 cents for 15 minutes of privacy in the pre-programmed privy but when time was up, the doors slid open regardless, revealing any number of full moons in broad daylight and catching half of NYC with its pants down.
2. Rubber Fingers The Marigolds of the SMS texting world ... or prophylactics for digits? Despite coming in pink or black … in small, medium or large ... Lex’s latex Phone Fingers for people who are picky about fingerprint smears on their phones never really took off.
5. The Parachute Jacket
3. Clippy ‘It looks like you're writing a letter. Would you like help?’ No question wound up Microsoft Office users quite like this annoying animated virtual paper clip that appeared as soon as you typed the word Dear. Complaints from harassed users about Clippy’s refusal to keep a low profile saw him clipped from later versions.
It’s not rocket science to guess where this is going ... Designed in 1912 by Franz Reichelt, the wearable safety garment received a high-profile unveiling by its German inventor who jumped off the Eiffel Tower in one. It didn't deploy. Reichelt died.
6. Hair in a Can The fine powder spray for covering up bald spots was marketed by prolific
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US inventor Ronald Popeil. It enjoyed similar success to his Smokeless Ashtray, which was dead in the water after the almost pan-European public smoking ban.
9. Venetian Blind Sunglasses Trendy in the Eighties, slatted sunglasses enjoyed a brief revival when Kanye West sported them in his 2007 music video, Stronger, introducing a new generation of wannabes to a completely pointless accessory.
7. Smell-o-Vision Mike Todd Jr. (son of the famous film producer) funded the ill-fated Smell-o-Vision which piped scent into cinemas at pivotal moments in the movie. It was used only once, in the 1960 film Scent of Mystery, produced by none other than Mike Todd Jr. Both the idea and the film stunk.
8. The Segway The vehicle of choice for lazy tourists and security guards was hyped by its inventor, Dean Kamen, as ‘a personal transportation revolution’. But many countries and US states banned it from pavements and, despite expensive gyroscopes to prevent it from tipping over, George W. Bush found a way!
10. Plastic Bags They kicked brown paper bags into touch in the late 1970s and saved millions of trees. It’s only in hindsight that we know the consequences of a million single-use bags being handed out every minute across the globe. That’s 150 bags a year for every person on earth, and counting...
New Year resolutions
Finding time to maintain personal promises can be a drag especially if you don’t keep them up New Year, New You! Here we go again. It’s the first month of 2018 and that cracking and dull thudding sound that you hear all around you is the unmistakable noise of people’s New Year resolutions breaking and hitting the ground. I understand that the beginning of another year is always the time when most people decide that something ‘really has to be done’, but to be honest, the majority of my friends have enough trouble readjusting to the fact that the Festive Season is finally over. This means that waking up wondering what day it is and having a large Baileys and handful of Quality Street for breakfast before slumping on the sofa in one’s onesie and watching the Lord of the Rings trilogy in a single sitting is no longer socially acceptable. Unless you are a freelancer, obviously. January is always the month that gym memberships, boot camp classes and Spanish language courses fill up with eager newbies, all intent on finally making that fresh start. The thought just struck me that someone should perhaps try setting up a gym class/Spanish class combination, where you could do Pilates while discovering the correct usage of ‘usted’ and ‘tu’. I expect, however, that the ‘mañana’ effect will soon pervade, leaving lots of unopened exercise books and disregarded exercise plans. I tend to get around the whole exercise thing by my Casita lifestyle that invariably sees me lugging logs around for the fire, pipes for the water and more often than
not myself up the 1.5 kilometre mountain track when the 4x4 is playing up. My other job as a radio presenter sees me burn off several hundred calories of nervous energy when I’m live on air, while delivering this fine publication every two weeks is also something of a cardio workout. Especially in August. I’ve also got the language thing cracked. Living in Andalucia, where the locals ‘eat their words’ and gesture when they speak, I’ve found the perfect solution is to mumble quickly while waving my hands around and finishing each sentence with ‘claro’, ‘tio’ or ‘porfa’. The only problem is understanding what my neighbours are saying in equally mumbled Andaluz, and I once famously misheard when I thought I was being asked if I was tired (estas cansado?), when my neighbour actually meant if I was married (estas casada?) “I am a little, but nothing that a good night in bed won’t fix,” I replied. He hasn’t been back since….
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GAME ON: Nadal
POSING: Ronnie
Injury
Stellar cast MILLIONS of people have decided Real Madrid players make the perfect footballing team. With the announcement of UEFA’s Fans Team of the Year 2017 which saw 8,779,639 people around the world cast their votes, five Real Madrid players feature in the final XI. These include Sergio Ramos (the most voted player), Marcelo, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Barcelona had one player Lionel Messi - in the squad, while Gianluigi Buffon, Dani Alves, Giorgio Chiellini, Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard completed the line-up.
Phil your boots!
Bachelor pad ‘A MAN’S home is his castle’ and for Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, his castle is all dedicated to one thing - himself. Keen to show off his luxury life, the 32-year-old has treated fans to a glimpse of his new €5 million mansion in the exclusive La Finca area of Pozuelo de Alarcón in Madrid. Boasting seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms, the 8,600 ft home is filled to the brim with Ronaldo portraits, number 7 shirts, door handles with the monogram CR and a special trophy room for the five-time Ballon d’Or champ. Outside a mini-football pitch, swimming pool and numerous Buddha statues ensure you can train and chill in one place.
IT has been one of the worst kept secrets in football. But after many months of courting Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho, Barcelona have finally announced his signing for a British record fee. The Catalan club have paid a whopping £142 million (€160m) for the Brazilian attacking midfielder. Coutinho said: “I leave Liverpool because Barcelona is a dream for me… You’ll Never Walk Alone.” NEW PAD: Family times
Going for gold
RAFAEL Nadal has confirmed that he will play at the Australian Open despite The Olive Press losing on his return from injury at the Kooyong Classic. TOP for news in Spain! Nadal, 31, lost 4-6, 5-7 to Frenchman Richard Gasquet in an exhibition match, which was only his second match in almost three months. However, the Spaniard appeared to be moving well on his troublesome knee after it caused him to pull out of the Auckland Classic earlier in January. The news will be a relief for tournament organisers with Andy Murray having already pulled out to have surgery on his hip, while question marks remain over the fitness of Novak Djokovic. World number one Nadal had a stellar 2017 winning both the French Open and the US Open.
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A 22-STRONG team of athletes has been chosen to compete for Gibraltar’s first ever Commonwealth Games medal at this year’s event in Australia. The Rock will send athletes to compete across seven sports – athletics, cycling, rhythmic gymnastics, shooting, squash, swimming and triathlon. Gibraltar, which first competed at the Commonwealth Games in 1958, is yet to win a medal despite 15 attempts. While the presence of world class athletes makes success again unlikely, the games provide a vital opportunity for Gibraltarian athletes to gain competitive experience. Jerai Torres, 23, who will
Gibraltar will send over twenty athletes to compete in seven different sports, by Joe Wallen compete in the 200 and 400m told the Gibraltar Olive Press that he was totally committed to giving his best performance at the Games. “Representing Gibraltar has always been an honour for me, from the first time seven years ago up until now,” Jerai said. “My hopes and aims are the same as every year, to improve my times and break national records. “Last season was my best one yet and so far this season I’ve started on the same line so hopefully I’ll be in peak condition for the Gold Coast.”
Team work
TEAM PRIDE: Striving for glory
Tax bandit Modric
LUKA: Pitch to court
REAL Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has appeared in court as part of a tax fraud case in Madrid. He is accused of defrauding the tax authorities of €870,728 in 2013 and 2014. This comes after it was reported Modric had already paid the authorities €1 million to reach a settlement, despite denying any wrongdoing. Court and tax officials say they cannot confirm or deny the payment and details of his court appearance have not been released. He has been playing for Madrid since signing from Tottenham in 2012.
The games will take place in April on Australia’s Gold Coast and it is the fifth time the nation has hosted the competition. “Congratulations to all 22 athletes selected and I’m delighted that we have seven sports represented at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games,” said Harry Murphy, president of the Gibraltar Commonwealth Games Association. “I would also like to thank all of the athletes, both those who made the team and those who didn’t, for the incredible effort, teamwork and sportsmanlike way that you conducted yourselves throughout the process.”
Star player
Coutinho had agreed personal terms with Barcelona last summer after they made a £115 million (€130m) bid, but that offer was rejected by Liverpool. The Brazilian has been in fine form for Liverpool so far this season, scoring 12 in 20 games and joins a Barcelona side who sit nine points clear at the top of La Liga. He has played over thirty times for Brazil and is likely to be a star player for the Seleção at this summer’s World Cup.
COUTINHO: Record
Stable condition Rangers legend Nacho Novo is in a ‘stable condition’ after suffering a heart attack while playing in a tournament in Germany. The 38-year-old was rushed to a Berlin hospital’s intensive care unit to receive urgent attention after admitting he felt ‘slightly unwell’. The Spaniard’s girlfriend, model Stephanie Heaney, was quick to arrive by his bedside, and she said support from wellwishers has been amazing. Writing on social media she said: “Hi everyone I’m absolutely exhausted and I appreciate all the messages for Nacho, just sad I can’t answer everyone. “Nacho is stable and speaking to me and hopefully will be home soon. Thank you.”
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Malaga shuttle
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A NEW twice-daily shuttle service will run from Gibraltar to Malaga Airport. The bus aims to reduce the demand on the remaining flights out of Gibraltar Airport after Monarch’s collapse.
Mulch off A CHRISTMAS tree recycling programme is available for Gibraltarians at the Civic Amenities Facility. Shredded trees will be converted to mulch which can be used to protect the soil.
Dance, dance CHRIS Hocking has been announced as the international adjudicator for the 2018 Gibraltar International Dance Festival. Hocking has had a successful West End career performing in many shows.
Vol. 3 Issue 62 www.gibraltarolivepress.com January 17th - January 30th 2018
Brexit boon
FABIAN Picardo believes Gibraltar can look forward to a prosperous future despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding Brexit. The Chief Minister made the claim in an optimistic New Year’s message in which he vowed that the Rock would remain in the driving seat as ne-
gotiations continue. He added that the continued guaranteed trading links with the UK, had led to ‘some companies’ also recently relocating here. He reiterated he had received a ‘cast iron commitment’ from Secretary of State David Davis that no trade deal would be
Checkmate! THE biggest names in the world of chess will compete for record levels of prize money at the Tradewise Gibraltar Chess Festival. The 16th edition of the popular tournament will feature prizes totalling £200,000 – with £25,000 alone allocated to the Masters’ competition winners. The competition will run from January 21 until February 1 at the Caleta Hotel. Last year’s winner, American Hikaru Nakamura, heads up the men’s competition while Ju Wenjun of China, who was victorious in 2017, leads the women’s field.
agreed unless it included Gibraltar. He also stressed the close relationship with Theresa May’s Conservatives and how theywould work closely together to achieve the best outcome for both parties. And he further allayed fears over Brexit, saying: “Given that 90% of our financial services trade is with the UK, securing access has been a crucial and decisive success that will deliver potentially huge economic benefits going forward. “This success means that Gibraltar will retain its attraction as a highly regulated and highly desirable place to do business with the UK. “Indeed, some companies are already relocating to Gibraltar based on this guarantee.” He also vowed that it would be strictly business as usual for residents, tourists and crossfrontier workers post Brexit.
THE 61st Three Kings Cavalcade took place in Gibraltar on Friday evening as excitable crowds looked on. A total of 20 spectacular floats took part in this year’s celebration with Alex Marzan, Joe Falero and Michael Rodriguez dressed as the Three Kings. Themes for this year included Lego Christmas, Moana, Toy Story and the Cruising: Sutherland Little Mermaid. Gib Dock won the top prize in the Senior Category while Miss Gibraltar 2017 also made an appearance on a float driven by members of the THE first Royal Navy Gibraltar Classic Vehicles vessel to stop off in GiAssociation. braltar this year docked into port in a show of military might. The HMS Sutherland, a Type 23 anti-submarine warfare frigate, stopped off at the Rock for a short logistic stop prior to travelling to Australia, the Far East and the Middle East. The vessel will now conduct a number of military exercises over the next seven months with British allies around the globe.
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