Euro Weekly News - Costa de Almeria 20 - 26 February 2014 Issue 1494 by Euro Weekly News Media S.A.

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ISSUE NO. 1494

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Maiden flight THE first flight between Almeria and Madrid operated by Air Europa took off on Monday.

Church funds THE provincial government has awarded €64,300 to Albanchez to help towards restoring the town’s church.

Czech mates THE Costa de Almeria tourist board is in Prague this weekend to take part in the 23rd edition of the Holiday World fair.

Sports day MORE than 150 athletes took part in the second Marathon Mountain Bike Race and First Trail run in Arboleas at the weekend.

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‘Flying’ football dog becomes world star GOOFY, the dog that was allegedly thrown from the stands during a football match in Olula del Rio has turned into a world star. Media in countries all round the world from the UK to Honduras have picked up on the surreal event, reported in last week’s Euro Weekly News, when a fan allegedly tried to throw the pooch, who was the pet of another spectator, at the referee. Goofy was reported to be hurt during the incident in which he fell between two and three metres, but has now been given a clean bill of health. Clemente Domene is the fan alleged to be responsible. He faces charges of alleged animal abuse and violent behaviour at a sporting event. Upset by the impact that this incident has had at national and international level, the fan of the Comarca del

Marmol Club said the dog’s ‘flight’ was the result of an accident and that under no circumstances was it intentional. “We were in the stands all the time playing with the dog,” he said. When the referee went to the visitors bench to ask several players to leave the field, Clemente approached the railings to see what was happening.

“People started screaming and the dog got scared and jumped out of my arms,” claimed the 48-year-old from Macael. Nevertheless, Clemente

wanted to apologise to the club, the referee, the fans and everyone who had been offended by what happened during the Regional Preferente League match.

Alboran Sea drugs haul TWELVE tonnes of hashish have been seized aboard a Turkish ship in the Alboran Sea. An operation codenamed ‘Bosporus’, carried out by Spanish customs officers and their French counterparts discovered the drugs on board the ship, Berk Kaptan. The operation has resulted in the arrest of four Turkish nationals aboard the vessel. It was the sixth interception of ships carrying large quantities of hashish on the trade route between Spain, Italy and France. Other drugs’ hauls have been between 15 and 30 tonnes.

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THIS WEEK IN

EWN News 1 - 18

Finance 21 - 26

Letters 27 POTENTIAL VENUE: The RENFE building in Zurgena.

Fair for the valley THE Almanzora Valley is set to have its own tourism fair this year. It will take place in March with full details of the event yet to be put into place. The fair will be held in the town of Zurgena and will provide an opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their work and promote tourism in the valley. Zurgena Town Hall is organising the event in collaboration with the Mancomunidad of Almanzora and employment workshops being conducted in the valley.

Although the programme is still to be confirmed, it appears the old restored RENFE railway building will host the fair. “With this ‘Feria del Almanzora’ the tourism industry will be able to show all the potential of the region to be a leader in domestic tourism,” said Councillor of Tourism in Zurgena, Sampo Kullervo, who confirmed that the event will be open to all the municipalities in Almanzora, as well as businesses in the Levante area of Almeria.

Leapy Lee 28

Daily TV 34

Time out 44 - 45

Classifieds 65 - 66

Sport 71 - 72

NEWS Cowboys and Indians TABERNAS is to hold a Cowboys and Indians themed Carnival over the weekend of February 28 to March 2. Better walks THE Junta de Andalucia is to spend €117,600 on improving five rural walkways in Alhabia. Safety lessons LOCAL POLICE in Gador have given classes on road safety to schoolchildren in the town. The children were taught about traffic signals and how to travel safely when riding a bike. Gymnastics show A TOTAL of 226 gymnasts from 10 towns in the province took part in a rhythm gymnastics display in the La Legua Sports Hall in Pulpi. Home help TWENTY families from Nijar and Chirivel have received grants from the Junta de Andalucia regional government to a total value of €156.150 to help them improve their homes. Beach clean up THE teachers, parents and pupils of the El Alquian Institute are due to spend today (Thursday) cleaning up the Perdigal beach in Almeria. Fair play AFTER 23 Liga games UD Almeria lie ninth in the fair play league, Barcelona are top, followed by Real Sociedad and Valencia. Real Madrid are seventh while Sevilla are bottom of the league. Busy bodies THE Institute of Legal Medicine (IML) in Almería issued 10,828 reports, performed 257 post mortem examination and 7,786 forensic evaluations during 2013, according to the annual report made by the Ministry of Justice and the Interior.

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Team rescues three dogs LOCAL POLICE in La Mojonera came to the rescue of three dogs trapped in a pond. The animals were stuck in the pond located in the Rambla Carcauz and had been there since the previous day. When the local police arrived at the scene, the officers could see that the dogs, although on dry land, could not get out because the sides of the steep sloping pond were covered with plastic making their escape difficult. The fire brigade were called along with the Animal

Protection group in La Mojonera to help in the rescue. With the use of ladders and ropes and with a great deal of patience, the three dogs were eventually hauled to safety. The Local Police acknowledged the professionalism and sensitivity of members of the fire brigade who acted in this rescue, and the members of the Animal Protection group who assisted, among which was the president herself, Marina Rodriguez Perez. The group did not hesitate to help out, providing food and shelter for the animals.

Hollywood star in Spain for filming

OLLYWOOD star Alec Baldwin is in Spain for the filming of the fifth instalment of Spain’s best-known and most profitable film saga,

‘Torrente’. This film has a budget of €8.5 million and filming is due to continue until March, also in Madrid and the Dominican Republic. Although little more is known, Baldwin is playing the villain of the piece, and is accompanied in Spain by his wife, Hilaria Thomas, whose parents are Spanish and allegedly convinced him to take part in the film. Also with them is their daughter, Carmen Gabriela, born in August last year. The Torrente films are dark comedies written, directed and starring Santiago Segura, who plays a lazy, rude, drunk, rightwing cop in Madrid. The first film was released in 1998 and made more than €3 million at the box office; the most recent was released in 2011 and made more than €19.5 million. Each of the films has included numerous Spanish actors and celebrities. The fifth instalment began filming late last year and is due to be released this October. One of the famous faces appearing in the film will be bullfighter Jesulin de Ubrique. It had been rumoured that Santiago Segura was also trying to

Quote of the Week It’s impossible to defend the actions of the Guardia Civil in Ceuta.’ Socialist Party leader, Alfredo Perez-Rubalcaba, regarding an incident in which 15 illegal immigrants died when attempting to swim to the coast of the Spanish enclave in North Africa.

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ews watch

Compo pay out ALMERIA City Hall has been ordered to pay €24,633.16 in compensation to a motorcyclist who fell off his motorbike after hitting a large pothole. The incident occurred in August 2002 and caused serious injuries to the motorcyclist’s left arm.

Cleaner Mojacar MOJACAR is to receive 70 new rubbish containers for the beaches, 40 will be for organic matter, 15 for plastic and 15 for paper and cardboard.

Top show CANTORIA based company Cosentino were at the Feria Habitat in Valencia last week with an exhibition stand to highlight its new work surface Dekton.

Pitch perfect TABERNAS is to have a new football pitch with artificial turf. The total cost of the project is €430,200.

Clothes recycled

Alec Baldwin, above, with his wife. Left: Director, Santiago Segura.

convince Mel Gibson to take a cameo role in the film, but this has not been confirmed. There is talk, however, that Italian motorcycle racer, Valentino Rossi, will appear. Following his arrival and the presentation in Madrid, Baldwin has been seen on set in Ciudad Real, where the whole team is currently staying.

Number of the week

cent of Spaniards who go on a diet fail, 81 per according to a study by XLS Medical. This is despite the fact that 76 per cent of those asked admit that they are not happy with their current weight. Fifty-eight per cent want to lose weight to improve their sex life.

THE people of La Mojonera have donated 6,000 kilos of clothing in the first year after the installation of containers in the town.

Rambla clean THE town hall of Benahadux has started work on cleaning up two gulleys in the town.

Efficient police NATIONAL POLICE in El Ejido have been ranked in 18th place for efficiency in Spain, with 62 per cent of crime cases solved.

And finally... A MAN, 20, who is facing 19 years in prison for killing his nephew in Madrid in December 2012, admitted in court that he shook the baby because he “wouldn’t stop crying” and that the 18-monthold boy fell off the sofa, where he had “propped him up” after he had fainted.

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NEWS EXTRA

Away day UD ALMERIA’S away game at Barcelona has been set for Sunday, March 2, with a 9pm kick off.

Sixth star ITALIAN actress Claudia Cardinale will be the sixth person to receive a star on the Almeria Walk of Fame at the end of the month.

Pest control ADRA Town Hall has launched a campaign to treat palm trees in the area in a bid to control the dreaded palm weevil.

Zurgena works ZURGENA Council is carrying out road improvements in a number of streets in the town.

Daily bread THE superSol supermarket chain will be providing clients with their daily bread. Anyone who spends more than €15 on their shopping in superSol is entitled to two loaves (barras) of bread the following day as long as they bring the receipt as proof of purchase.

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Countdown to opening of new Marble Centre MACAEL Town Hall has announced that the new Marble Interpretation Centre will open on March 8. The centre is destined to become the cornerstone of the tourism plan in the town

With less than a month until the opening of this facility, workers continue to work flat out in preparation for visitors who will be able to learn about the past and present life of the quarries.

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The centre, which covers an area of 300 square metres, will take the visitor on a journey through the history of Macael linked to the exploitation of marble. It will feature a scale model of the Sierra de los Filabres sculpted from a block of marble and will highlight buildings such as the Roman Theatre of Merida, the Patio de los Leones in the Alhambra, the Monastery of the Escorial and the Royal Palace of Madrid, showing the signs of expertise and the value of this raw material extracted for centuries from the bowels of the mountain. Mayor Raul Martinez said: “It will be closer to a museum rather than an interpretation centre space. The differentiating factor with respect to other similar tourist attractions will certainly be the possibility that the visitor will be able to visit a quarry. “Macael mining is very much alive and the visitor is going to be able to see a stonemason at work. We’re talking about a live sector and the visitor can get inside,” said the enthusiastic mayor.

English film in Huercal-Overa PEOPLE in the Huercal-Overa area who are at a loss with what to do with themselves after losing UK TV have the chance to enjoy a night at the cinema with an English film tonight (Thursday). The cinema in Huercal-Overa is showing the second of three films in its original version. Tonight’s film is ‘Silver Linings Playbook’ with tickets just €4. Doors open at 7.30pm and the film starts at 8pm.

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Tales of Los Velez TWELVE authors from the Los Velez area of the province have had their stories published in a new book entitled ‘Relatos Velezanos II’.

Town upgrade THE El Tostadero district in Cuevas del Almanzora is to receive €700,000 to improve the sewage system as well as pavements and lighting. The work will take six months.

Safe pupils ONE HUNDRED schoolchildren in Vicar received diplomas after taking part in a road safety course.

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Famous architect unveils sculpture WORLD-RENOWNED architect and designer Daniel Libeskind was in Cantoria last week to unveil his new sculpture, ‘Beyond The Wall’. It has been installed in the heart of the facilities of the multinational Cosentino in Cantoria, showing the many possibilities of the new material, Dekton, from which it has been built. Libeskind is an internationally-recognised figure in the practice of architecture and design. He is the author and designer of the restoration of Ground Zero in New York, and the architect responsible for the construction of the One World Trade Center. “It was amazing to work with such an innovative material, it is a product of the 21st century that offers many possibilities for architecture,” said Libeskind. After the

unveiling of the Beyond The Wall sculpture, Libeskind and Cosentino Group President, Francisco MartinezCosentino, visited the €128-million new factory where Dekton is manufactured.

Francisco Martinez-Cosentino remarked: “I feel very honoured that Daniel Libeskind has chosen Dekton for his creation, and want to thank him for his visit to Cosentino Headquarters. Our aim with the ultracompact surface Dekton is to suit any design request, guaranteeing extreme performance. I am proud this has been achieved for the remarkable installation Beyond The Wall.”

CANTORIA SCULPTURE: Beyond The Wall.

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Dames events THE next meeting for Dames in Turre will be held on Monday, February 24, at 11am in the multiple use centre in Turre. Dave Sharps, an ex Royal Marine Bandsman, will be the speaker and he will be talking about his life in the Marines and playing some music. Bring your friends along; everybody is welcome for what organisers promise will be a very enjoyable meeting. This year the Dames will be celebrating International Women’s Day on Saturday, March 8, at the Hostel Rural, Turre, with a three-course lunch and entertainment by some of their own members.

For more information, please contact Secretary Pam Smith on 950 475 418 or President Lesley Barlow on 950 478 633.

Time to ‘PAWS’ for thought EURO WEEKLY NEWS columnist Tony Matthews is holding his latest charity quiz night in aid of animal charity PAWS. Starting at 8pm on March 6, it is being held at the Hole in One Venues Bar, Centro Comercial, Valle del Este Golf Resort, Vera. Entry is €2 per person, with a maximum of six in a team. More information is available on 950 461 068.

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NEWS EXTRA

We’re jammin EXPORTS of marmalade and jam from the province rose from just 15 kilos between January and November 2012, to 4,600 kilos in the same period of 2013.

Oil recycling THE town of Vicar recycled 1,570 litres of oil in 2013, a figure similar to that seen in 2012.

Test track TABERNAS race track was put to the test after hosting racing teams with more than 200 riders.

Trees chopped THE PSOE in Gergal has complained to the mayor after several trees were cut down ‘without reason’ in Avenida Antonio Sanchez Garcia.

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Decision to close park averts major incident THE strong winds that hit the province last week caused significant damage to the municipal park in HuercalOvera with large trees blown over. The town hall’s decision to close the park following a weather alert was said to be key in preventing any serious incidents. Councillor Alonso Mena said: “Some of the trees had fallen very close to the children’s swings, so we made the right decision in closing our park, a decision we didn’t doubt for a minute.”

HAZARD AVERTED: Trees fell close to the children’s swings.

Carnival story on show in Mojacar THE new Arts Centre ‘Fuente del Mojacar’ in Calle Cuesta de la Fuente, Mojacar, currently has on display until March 15

items and pictures depicting the history of the carnival in the Levante Area of Almeria. The exhibition is

open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm, and on Sundays from 10am to 2pm. The town halls of

Antas, Cuevas del Almanzora, Garrucha, Pulpi, Turre and Vera have all helped out in bringing the exhibition together.

NEWS

More want to learn music THE Municipal School of Music in Mojacar has gained 20 more students than last year. It is an indication of the considerable interest in learning music shown by the youngsters of the town, together with the work of both the school itself and the Department of Culture, which has promoted the study of music. Four teachers instruct different classes and groups of instruments. From three years of age up to five, initiation classes to music and movement are programmed. Between six and seven years, pupils reach the preparatory stage and start to play an instrument, including piano, guitar, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, horn, tuba, clarinet, flute, saxophone and percussion. Soon to be added to the list are the oboe and lyre, two instruments which the town hall has recently acquired. The music school also has classes in preparing for exams to gain access to undergraduate courses.

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Rising stars MORE than 270 footballing youngsters in Huercal-Overa will take part in the Liga de Estrellas football league.

Smashing

Better park THE town hall of Velez Rubio have started work on improving the drainage at the children’s playpark in Calle Gloria Fuentes. More than 300 metres of channelling is being built to prevent flooding.

Man accused of oil fraud

NEWS EXTRA

AROUND 150 youngsters from all over the Almanzora Valley enjoyed a full day of tennis at Albox Tennis Club. The event was organised by Winner Tennis.

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PROJECT: Mojacar promenade is to be extended.

Works to extend existing promenade for Mojacar THE president of the Government of Almeria, Gabriel Amat, has signed a contract to start work on the project ‘Paving in Mojacar.’ The project includes the expansion of the parking area next to the AL5107 road and is being funded through the provincial plans at a cost of €128,000. The expansion of the existing

parking area will create 51 new parking spaces covering an area of 1,458 square metres. The works will also include an extension of 431 metres to the existing promenade and the installation of a drainage network which will collect surface rainwater as well as signage for the parking area.

THE Guardia Civil have arrested a 42-year-old man from HuercalOvera accused of defrauding two oil mills in the province. The man allegedly acquired a total of 360 litres of oil to the value of €1,080 then paid for the oil with cheques which bounced. Following the complaint, police were able to identify the

person who had issued the cheques finding that one of the cheques was issued with insufficient funds to meet the payment, and the account associated with the second cheque had been stopped. Police caught up with him in the town of Huercal-Overa where he was charged with fraud.

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So what is all this ‘hashing’ about, running, drinking or... MANY people have heard about Hash House Harriers, but know nothing about them or are unsure of what the group and its members do. A lot of people have the wrong idea about Hash House Harriers, some think it’s a running club, some think it’s a ‘booze up’ or ‘pub crawl’ and some think it’s just for younger fit people, well they would be

wrong on all three counts. Hashing is a noncompetitive social event, where members have fun, can have a drink and maybe get a bit of exercise. Indalo Hash House Harriers (IH3) is just one of almost 2,000 hash groups throughout the world. It is a family group and has members from teenagers to people in their 70s.

NEWS NEWS EXTRA

Fairy tales PULPI Library has created a number of initiatives to encourage three and four-year-old children to use the Public Library, with storytelling proving to be very popular.

Vicar tour

HAVE A GO: Everybody is welcome at IH3. The area they cover is from the coast, to the mountains, and anywhere between. The group normally have two routes, a main route, for the more energetic, and a mini route for the walkers, which are usually between five to eight kilometres. There may be a midway refreshment stop, but there certainly is

one at the end, alcoholic or not, there’s always a choice. After the run, and ‘rehydration,’ they have the ‘circle’ where the fun moves into high gear, announcements are made and ‘down downs’ awarded. Being noncompetitive, people can run, jog or stroll whether they are a teenager or getting on a bit, everyone can join in.

The basic aim of the hash is to have fun, and at the same time, encourage a bit of exercise, without overdoing it. The Harriers welcome all shapes and sizes.

All are welcome to join. More information: www.indaloh3.com or e-mail indaloh3@gmail.com for more info.

Mojacar Carnival weekend THE Mojacar Carnival weekend gets under way tomorrow (Friday) with pupils from C.P Bartolomé Flores school taking part in a parade

at 10am leaving from the school up to the town hall square, which will then be followed by a children’s show.

On Friday night there will be a Carnival Dance at 10.30pm with ‘Orquesta Melodías’ at the Multiple Use Centre. Upon the arrival of the carnival groups there will be a contest to find the best local singing group who usually sing a comedy song. On Saturday night there is another Carnival Dance at 10.30pm with ‘Orquesta Melodías’ at the Multiple Use Centre, this time there is a competition for the best Carnival outfits. On Sunday there is a big Carnival parade leaving from the Rio Agua roundabout up to the Parque Comercial Centre. The parade starts at 5pm. All children that want to ride in one of the floats must come dressed in a disguise and arrive at 4pm.

YOUNGSTERS in Vicar are to have free guided bus tours to learn about the history and buildings of their home town.

Pottering about FIFTY school children from Roquetas de Mar took part in a pottery workshop hosted by artist F Castilla.

Street open THE town hall of Huercal-Overa has opened up Calle Doctor Miguel Servet to traffic. This comes after requests from shop owners in the area.

Rambla works WORK has begun this week in the Rambla Las Vicentas-Alqueria of Velez Rubio. The work will eliminate the risk of the road being cut off by floods.

Green grass THE company Royalverd, which maintains the grass at Almeria’s Estadio Mediterraneo, has taken possession of the latest technology to enable it to paint the pitch green.

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Huercal-Overa castle a main attraction THE department of Tourism in Huercal-Overa continues its campaign to ‘bring the castle to its neighbours.’ The town hall has planned several activities for children, in particular the Practical Workshop Castillo Huercal-Overa, a restoration workshop in

ceramics for parents and children to be held on March 15 and 16 at the castle. The children will not only learn techniques in ceramic crafts, but will share experiences with their parents. “The new initiative has

Fire destroys six cars THE Guardia Civil in Roquetas de Mar are investigating the cause of a fire that burnt out six vehicles in Aguadulce during the early hours of Monday. The incident occurred at 6.10am on Calle Almoravides in Aguadulce. For reasons still under investigation, one vehicle caught fire after suffering a fuel leak. The flames quickly spread to other vehicles on the steep road. The fire was controlled in just under an hour by members of the Poniente Fire Department of El Ejido.

proved popular with all places filled in just one day,” said the councillor for Tourism, Monica Navarro. A group of students from Virgen del Rio School will take a walking tour of the Castle on February 27. A total of 100 children will walk from the school to the castle. Once there, they will have breakfast in the picnic area and in small groups will take a guided tour inside the castle. The initiative between the school and the town hall gives the pupils the opportunity to take a nice tour of the town, get to learn about the castle and be in direct contact with nature. “Since schools have started visiting the castle, we have offered a guide to explain all the little secrets of our watchtower and what the town was like years ago,” Navarro said.

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20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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HAVE A GO: Electric bikes are ideal in mountainous regions.

A chance to try out an electric bicycle MOJACAR Town Hall is offering people the opportunity to try out tourist friendly transport tomorrow (Friday). Electric bicycles are a vehicle of great value in Europe and are now part of a growing trend amongst tourists. Many cyclists, regardless of physical condition or age, can continue to pursue their cycling activities using e-bikes (electric bikes). Mojacar, thanks to its climate, mountainous scenery and cultural attractions, has begun

working in this sector. The town hall will have 40 e-bikes of different brands at its disposal along with a tour guide. People who want to take part in the tour must send an e-mail to info@mojacar.es specifying ‘tour con e-bike’ along with name and profession. Spaces are limited to 40 people only. People confirmed on the tour are asked to meet between 11am and noon at Marina de la Torre for a ride out up to Mojacar Pueblo returning at 2pm.

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NEWS NEWS EXTRA

Market success MORE than 2,000 people visited the first Eco Market held in Lucainena de las Torres. The next market is on Sunday March 2.

New cars PAINTING COURSE: To be held in the Museum of Olula del Rio.

Cultural workshop THE head of Culture for Almeria, Maria Vazquez,

has presented at the Provincial Palace the third Painting Course of Realism and Figuration to be taught by painters Antonio Lopez and Andres Garcia Ibañez in Olula del Rio. The workshop is organised by the Council of Almeria and the Museo Casa Ibañez Foundation and will be held in the museum from May 12 to16. Maria Vazquez said that “this is a course that is already established in the cultural calendar of the province of Almeria for which we have received over 300 applications from around the world over the last two years. “This is an initiative that has become a national and international reference in which students and teachers go beyond the technical work to convert the course

into an experience of sharing and coexistence.” Juan Manuel Martin Robles director of the museum recalled that in the previous two years a total of 60 students from around the world have passed through the workshop with a strong presence of Andalucian painters with 29 students, including seven from the province of Almería. The director said “the final decision is made by the two protagonists primarily aimed at serving the career of artists, so it is very important they present a dossier of good work.” The course has a registration fee of €180, a modest price given the students have the opportunity to study and work with artists of the stature of Antonio Lopez and Andres Garcia Ibañez.

Fashion fun TWO fashion shows are planned for March by a local shop. The Dressing Room, based in Turre will be showing off some of its new ranges at the events. The first is being held at Huercal-Overa Tennis Club on March 21, organised by the Dames of Huercal Overa. The second is planned for March 29 at Greg & Co in Turre. More details are available from The Dames Committee Members, Greg Edwards and Lois HamiltonJones. Ranges stocked by the Dressing Room include Curves, for ladies of a fuller figure, Only and Vero Moda.

THE town of Gador strengthened service of the Protection handing over new cars to them with duties.

hall has the Civil by two help their

Women’s day THE seven women’s associations in HuercalOvera have got together to plan the activities for 2014. The first event will be a solidarity market on Saturday March 8.

Bright idea THE mayor of Pulpi, Juan Garcia has visited the pilot installation of lamp posts powered by a solar system. The street lights have been installed in areas that do not have an electrical supply.

Dublin trip THE Costa de Almeria tourist board attended the 24th Edition of Holiday World Dublin at the end of January. The Spanish Ambassador in Dublin, D. Javier Garrigues Florez was present on the stand.

Goya prizes THE movie ‘Living is easy with eyes closed’ filmed in the province won six awards at the Goya’s. El Ejido director Martin Cuenca won one award for his film ‘Cannibal.’

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S CANDINAVIAN P RESS

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Stories making headlines in Europe

BRITISH PRESS Giraffe killed

Unfit officers

Cooking attraction

DENMARK - DESPITE protests and rescue offers, workers at Copenhagen Zoo killed a healthy giraffe then fed chunks of its corpse to the zoo’s lions, while visitors looked on.

HUNDREDS of police officers have failed compulsory fitness tests figures show. Two-thirds of those who did not pass were women.

A COOKERY club run by top chefs will be a feature on a new 141,000-tonne British P&O cruise liner which will sail on its maiden voyage from Southampton in March next year.

No Olympics NORWAY - Almost 82 per cent of Norwegians do not want Oslo to host the Winter Olympics in 2022, a poll by market research group InFact has revealed.

Bone note SWEDEN - A researcher at the University of Oslo has discovered a coded rune message written on a piece of bone in Sweden by Vikings 900 years ago says ‘kiss me.’

Corruption view TWO fifths of the public believe corruption is a problem within the police, according to a survey of 2,000 people, conducted by OnePoll.

Commuter woes PEOPLE who have to travel to get to work are less happy and have higher anxiety than noncommuters, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Mural found SWEDEN - Construction workers discovered an 18th century mural on the wall of what is to be a new toilet for disabled people at a vicarage in east Sweden.

Joy ride NORWAY - A 10-yearold Norwegian boy took his 18-month-old sister for a ride in the family car, ending up in a ditch where they were found by a snowplough driver.

Special 100th DENMARK - Midsomer Murders celebrated its 100th episode in Copenhagen with an episode starring Birgitte Hjort Sørensen and Ann Eleonora Jorgensen.

THE Foreign Office accused Argentina of ‘unacceptable harassment’ after a Cunard cruise liner was ordered to take down its British flag when docked in Buenos Aires.

Poor workers UNIVERSITIES are producing social workers who are ‘inadequately prepared,’ the government’s advisor on children’s social care has said in a highly critical report.

Legal highs THERE has been a rise in the number of deaths in the UK linked to so-called ‘legal highs,’ with psychoactive substances, amounting to 68 in 2012.

Explosive fish NORWAY - A herring expert was called to help ‘disarm’ a 25-year-old can of the Swedish delicacy that managed to literally raise the roof of a cabin in northern Norway.

Argentine bullies

TIRING TRAVEL: People who travel to work are less happy and more anxious.

RUSSIAN PRESS Photo controversy

Members disowned

TWO skiers from Mexico and Lebanon taking part in the Sochi Olympics are embroiled in a controversy over topless photos that one took of the other.

MEMBERS of punk rock group Pussy Riot have insisted that the two members jailed for singing a protest song in a Moscow cathedral and later released not be billed as members.

Less homework

Citrus export

PRESIDENT Vladimir Putin’s party urged school teachers to cut back on homework so children could spend more time watching the Winter Olympics.

ACCORDING to the Association of Citrus Exporters (ASPAM), Morocco plans to triple exports to Russia between now and 2018.

Stronger ties RUSSIA and Egypt agreed to bolster their defence ties as Egypt’s military chief visited Moscow on his first trip abroad since ousting the country’s Islamist president.

Photo show PHOTOS of early 20th-century London will be shown in Moscow for the first time, including some from the Cold War years when visiting London was banned for most Russians.

Missing squirrels EXTRA police will patrol parks in Moscow and hand out fines as large numbers of squirrels have gone missing to become household pets. GONE AWOL: To live as pets.

EUROPEAN PRESS

GERMAN PRESS Unsuitable food A POLAR bear at Stuttgart Zoo died after eating a visitor’s coat and bag. Anton the bear is the latest in a string of animals to die after eating things thrown into their enclosures.

Elderly care GERMANS are liable for their parents’ care in old age even if they have not been in contact for decades, one of the country’s top courts has ruled.

Taxman’s prize A PUNK rocker who won tens of thousands of euros on a German television quiz show says most of the money will have to go to the tax man.

Spray mistake A GERMAN woman who mistook her pepper spray for deodorant and used it in a nightclub toilet, injuring two women and forcing the club to evacuate, could face charges.

All gone THIEVES stole all four wheels off Borussia Dortmund’s star striker Robert Lewandowski’s Porsche, which was also damaged.

Cocaine party A 76-YEAR-OLD woman who decided to celebrate her birthday with a freefor-all cocaine bash in her Berlin bar was arrested.

Low-cost flying FREQUENT fliers will be happy to see plane ticket prices plummet this year and more options open up, as the budget airline industry gathers pace in Germany with new routes.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

MALLORCA

Driver trapped A MAN was trapped in his car after he was in a collision with another vehicle on the Manacor-Porto Cristo road. Mallorca firefighters helped rescue the victim, who sustained minor injuries to his body.

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News from our editions With six editions and read by more than half a million people, EWN is Spain’s largest free local English-language newspaper

Manly problems MORE than 60,000 Balearic men aged between 25 and 70 have some sort of erection problems, the Spanish Association of Sexual Medicine (ASESA) has revealed.

Cruises up CRUISE visits to Palma will increase by 3 per cent in 2014 and by 6 per cent in 2015, according to the Balearic Ports Authority (APB).

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Roof fall A MAN in his 40’s was knocked unconscious after falling from a roof during an accident at work in the industrial area of Fortuna, Murcia.

Drink driving A DRUNK driver was arrested for driving whilst under the influence of alcohol and reckless driving after travelling for six kilometres the wrong way along the RM19 in San Javier.

Drugs raid

Coordinator resigns THE coordinator of the Nerja Citizen Attention office, Charo Garcia, presented her resignation after she was allegedly put under pressure to quit by Mayor Jose Alberto Armijo.

RINCON de la Victoria Local Police imposed 2,281 traffic-related fines in 2013, according to Mayor Francisco Salado. Most of them were for parking incorrectly and speeding.

A MAN has been charged with a crime against public health for reportedly selling drugs in techno parties in Palma. He threw 23 doses of MDMA (ecstasy) out of his car window when he was arrested by National Police.

MALLORCA firefighters closed off a restaurant in Andratx after a fire destroyed its storage room. Firefighters believe the blaze could have affected the building’s structure.

AXARQUIA

Traffic fines

Techno dealer

Restaurant closed

NEWS DESK

Town promotion TOURISM: Oil prospecting would damage this sector.

Opposition grows to oil exploration plans THERE is growing opposition in Javea towards oil prospecting in the Mediterranean Sea. Spokespersons from all political parties - the PSPV socialists, Xabia Democratica, Partido Popular, Ciudadanos por Javea and Compromis attended a meeting called by the mayor, Jose Chulvi. They are presenting a united front to convey their worries to the central government.

A draft statement has now been prepared and is expected to be approved at an extraordinary council meeting being held today (Thursday). It will set out the worries of the local tourist and fishing industries which are anxious to learn what the oil prospecting company Cairn Energy has in store for them. Oil prospecting would adversely affect fish catches, potentially

damaging a sector important to the area’s economy as well as the catering industry. This in turn would put even more people out of work. Members of the Marina Alta’s hotel and tourism association Aehtma are also uneasy and want the regional government’s Cabinet to reject “this threat to our way of life and our legacy to coming generations.”

ALMUÑECAR Town Hall has reached an agreement to advertise Almuñecar and La Herradura as holiday destinations on holiday website Muchoviaje.

Lucky winner A LUCKY Motril resident won a monthly salary of €2,000 for 10 years in the ONCE lottery draw held last weekend.

Hawker denounced NERJA Local Police have lodged a complaint against a hawker for reportedly selling potatoes in Calle Pintada. The man was using a megaphone to announce the sale.

COSTA DEL SOL

Good friends A FRIENDSHIP agreement was signed by the President of the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, Juan Jesus Vivas, and Ronda mayor, Maripaz Fernandez, as a step towards becoming twin cities.

Back to nature

Burn-out

Chipped pets

SIXTY volunteers took part in an environmental project which involved planting 250 shrubs and aquatic plants along the banks of the Vinalopo river in Elche.

RESIDENTS of the Los Chopos urbanisation in San Vicente complained that their electricity meters catch fire and household appliances break down. The area’s Iberdrola transformer is unable to cope with demand, they said.

FUENGIROLA Town Hall has launched a campaign to encourage residents to microchip their pets, especially dogs walked in public areas.

COSTA BLANCA NORTH

AP-7 rescue

A MAN, 43, was shot in Las Albarizas area of Marbella in unknown circumstances and taken to the Costa del Sol Hospital.

Nasty surprise

TWO men and a woman have been arrested for selling cocaine from a bar in Molina de Segura, Murcia. Police seized 55 grammes of cocaine, 30 grammes of marihuana and nine LSD tablets.

EL RODAT hotel in Javea was fined for closing without advising employees. Originally on open-ended contracts, they found the hotel closed and learnt they had been switched to permanent seasonal contracts.

Market revival

No return

A REFRIGERATION company is to take over the old fish market at Alicante harbour, seven years after it closed down. The facility only operated between late 2005 and spring 2006.

ORANGE growers in Gandia and La Safor are not covering outgoings, they said. Navels are paid at 30 cents a kilo, which is 40 per cent below cost price.

TWO off-duty National Police officers investigating a parked car on the AP-7 motorway found the driver had suffered a heart attack. They contacted an ambulance which transferred him to San Juan hospital.

Unfit parents A LATIN American couple, both drunk, were arrested in Alcoy after their threeyear-old daughter was found wandering the street barefoot and in pyjamas. The child was placed with a relative pending a social services’ investigation.

Man shot Cycle plans A GROUP has been created to get Marbella included in the Andalucian Cycling Plan which aims to create cycle lanes throughout the region.

French golfers THE Malaga-Costa del Sol Tourism Board has organised a tour for French travel operator Tee Off Travel, to attract French golfers to the coast.

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20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

inance F A EURO WEEKLY NEWS 6 PAGE SPECIAL SECTION // WWW.EWNBUSINESS.COM

business & legal

BY 2015 Spain’s food additives sector will have grown by 5 per cent. Despite the economic crisis, exports will help to boost turnover to €470 million, market consultants have predicted.

Train is gaining passengers

per cent. The economic crisis is partly responsible and higher taxes at some Spanish airports, but the AVE has taken the heaviest toll on domestic flights. After the high-speed train lost 485,000 passengers in 2012, the Ministry of Public Works lowered fares. That decision paid off and the AVE moved 25.4 million people in 2013, an increase of 13.5 per cent.

Wage freeze for millions SPAIN’S biggest companies froze salaries for 4.35 million employees last year. Spain’s Minister of Labour Fatima Bañez read these figures without pessimism. “After a long period of intense salary increases, the Spanish economy is carrying out vital adjustments to correct significant imbalances,” Bañez said. She refuted suggestions that this was deliberate on the government’s part. “Nobody could claim that Spain has a model of low salaries,” the minister added. “That strategy is doomed to failure.” Official statistics relating to salaries are not particularly revealing and the government does little to clarify them, analysts claim.

The Hacienda (tax office) figures are reliable but there are 12 million wage-earners and they reveal only the earnings of the 4.35 million workers employed by companies whose turnover exceeds €6 million a year. These also slashed 163,000 jobs last year. Hacienda pointed out that there was a general strike in 2012 on November 15 and civil servants lost their Christmas bonus that year. These factors combined to make 2013 look better than it was with a 0.6 salary increase in the last quarter. Otherwise last year’s freeze would instead have meant a fall in earnings for those 4.35 million workers.

usiness extra

Gates buys again MICROSOFT founder Bill Gates has acquired between 2 and 3 per cent of the Spanish security company Prosegur. This is Gates’s second Spanish acquisition, following his 6 per cent stake in FCC bought last October.

Day off STATE employees will receive an extra day’s holiday in 2014. This will compensate for the two national holidays – November 1 and December 6 – which both fall on a Saturday.

Broadband competition LAST year Jazztel gained more broadband clients than Telefonica, the first operator ever to achieve this. But it remained way behind the Spanish giants in total numbers of customers. In 2013 Telefonica (Movistar) acquired 237,326 more broadband clients, reaching 5.61 million homes. Jazztel added a further

263,114 new lines and now provides 855,109 broadband connections. Vodafone’s pursuit of the Spanish operator Ono was prompted by Telefonica’s dominance. The UK group commands only 7.6 per cent of the ADSL market and sees the cable operator as an opportunity to enter the market with a firm tread.

STAT OF WEEK

AVE flies high SPAIN’s AVE high-speed train is making inroads into domestic air travel. Last year was the worst for internal flights since late 2001 when the 9-11 terrorist attack on New York’s Twin Towers temporarily deterred all air travel. Fewer than 28.7 million passengers flew national routes last year, 4.7 million below 2012’s figures and a year-on-year fall of 14

EWN

FULL SPEED AHEAD: AVE having an effect on domestic air travel.

VIVIRELTREN

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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C O M PA N Y PRICE(P) Aberdeen Asset Mngmnt 401.20 Admiral Group PLC 1445.00 Aggreko PLC 1601.50 AMEC PLC 1107.00 Anglo American PLC 1529.50 Antofagasta PLC 940.50 ARM Holdings PLC 934.00 Ashtead Group PLC 838.50 Associated British Foods 2827.50 AstraZeneca PLC 4042.00 Aviva PLC 460.80 Babcock International 1420.00 BAE Systems PLC 436.15 Barclays PLC 254.22 BG Group PLC 1078.50 BHP Billiton PLC 1905.75 BP PLC 488.00 British Amrcn Tobacco 3082.50

C H A N G E ( P ) % C H G. -0.44 -0.11 2.00 0.14 12.00 0.75 14.00 1.28 10.00 0.66 2.50 0.27 3.50 0.38 6.50 0.78 16.00 0.57 -13.50 -0.33 1.12 0.24 4.15 0.29 4.30 1.00 1.25 0.49 6.88 0.64 17.00 0.90 1.60 0.33 35.00 1.15

NET VOLUME 295.11 8.62 16.98 160.00 634.15 61.99 244.68 20.97 19.36 174.61 286.03 12.66 435.63 4,195.75 172.73 957.97 1,113.83 106.04

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C O M PA N Y MMM 3M Co AXP American Express Co T AT&T Inc BA Boeing Co CAT Caterpillar Inc CVX Chevron Corp CSCO Cisco Systems Inc DD E I du Pont de Nemours and Co XOM Exxon Mobil Corp GE General Electric Co GS Goldman Sachs Group Inc HD Home Depot Inc INTC Intel Corp IBM International Business Machine... JNJ Johnson & Johnson JPM JPMorgan Chase and Co MCD McDonald's Corp MRK Merck & Co Inc MSFT Microsoft Corp NKE Nike Inc PFE Pfizer Inc PG Procter & Gamble Co KO The Coca-Cola Co TRV Travelers Companies Inc UTX United Technologies Corp UNH UnitedHealth Group Inc VZ Verizon Communications Inc V Visa Inc WMT Wal-Mart Stores Inc DIS Walt Disney Co

PRICE CHANGE %CHANGE VOLUME 132.12 89.00 33.15 130.16 96.55 113.48 22.56 64.50 94.11 25.74 163.72 77.93 24.76 183.69 92.76 58.15 95.78 55.44 37.62 75.07 31.94 79.40 38.93 84.02 113.87 73.52 46.51 226.00 75.79 79.23

+1.98 +0.10 -0.34 +0.66 +0.44 +0.97 +0.29 +0.52 +2.68 +0.30 -0.34 +0.34 +0.055 +1.85 +0.20 +0.12 +0.32 +0.34 +0.01 +0.20 +0.24 +1.60 +0.28 +1.14 +0.57 +2.31 -0.80 +1.95 +0.43 +1.33

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3.0M 2.7M 18.3M 4.8M 4.2M 6.8M 64.6M 3.6M 18.3M 25.1M 4.2M 4.8M 20.6M 4.7M 5.5M 13.2M 3.5M 8.7M 43.0M 3.1M 18.9M 10.8M 16.0M 2.1M 3.5M 6.9M 26.4M 3.2M 4.9M 7.0M

6.00 3.71 0.97 5.00 10.00 6.00 13.00

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NET VOLUME 70.13 154.56 1,123.56 14.40 36.73 56.50 16.88

CHANGE NET / %

Most Advanced Cray Inc LCA-Vision Inc. LogMein, Inc. Northern Technologies Intrntional Corp Mannatech, Incorporated Credit Suisse AG Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. US Ecology, Inc. Extreme Networks, Inc. China Recycling Energy Corporation Emmis Communications Corporation

$ 41.66 11.69 / +39.01% $ 5.44 1.19 / +28.00% $ 40.48 7.21 / +21.67% $ 22.69 3.46 / +17.99% $ 18.51 2.51 / +15.69% $ 59.46 7.1199 / +13.60% $ 14 1.46 / +11.64% $ 37.08 3.83 / +11.52% $ 5.925 0.535 / +9.93% $ 3.18 0.27 / +9.28% $ 3.45 0.29 / +9.18%

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1.38 / -20.78% 6 / -13.57% 9.04 / -10.04% 3.16 / -9.36% 2.04 / -9.31% 0.23 / -9.16% 3.63 / -8.73% 3.29 / -8.24% 2.04 / -7.63% 1.18 / -7.38% 1.69 / -6.94%

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

C O M PA N Y PRICE(P) CHANGE Centrica PLC 318.10 -0.10 Coca-Cola HBC AG 1542.00 -10.00 Compass Group PLC 919.50 6.00 CRH PLC 1631.00 7.00 Diageo PLC 1852.50 14.00 easyJet PLC 1722.50 8.00 Experian PLC 1071.50 3.00 Fresnillo PLC 978.50 7.60 G4S PLC 232.30 0.70 GKN PLC 414.45 2.48 GlaxoSmithKline PLC 1672.50 8.00 Glencore Xstrata PLC 340.47 2.38 Hammerson PLC 547.50 3.50 Hargreaves Lansdown 1344.00 4.50 HSBC Holdings PLC 639.10 1.20 IMI PLC 1515.00 7.00 Imperial Tobacco Group 2322.00 22.00 InterContinental Hotels 2014.00 12.00 International Conslidtd ... 448.20 2.00 Intertek Group PLC 2943.50 14.00 ITV PLC 207.35 1.10 Johnson Matthey PLC 3305.00 0.00 Kingfisher PLC 382.90 1.35 Land Securities Group 1050.00 6.00 Legal & General Group 240.10 1.12 Lloyds Banking Group 80.78 0.35 London Stock Exchange 1957.00 17.00 Marks & Spencer Group 493.25 3.20 Meggitt PLC 522.50 4.00 Melrose Industries PLC 314.90 3.64 Mondi PLC 1033.50 5.00 National Grid PLC 814.50 1.58 Next PLC 6432.50 40.00 Old Mutual PLC 182.90 1.00 Pearson PLC 1118.00 0.00 Persimmon PLC 1395.00 10.00 Petrofac Ltd 1323.00 6.84 Prudential PLC 1324.50 11.95 Randgold Resources Ltd 4853.50 79.00 Reckitt Benckiser Group 5002.50 83.00 Reed Elsevier PLC 910.25 1.00 Resolution Ltd 369.80 0.00 REXAM PLC 523.00 4.00 Rio Tinto PLC 3509.50 -7.00 Rolls-Royce Holdings 1025.50 0.00 Royal Bank of Scotland 345.15 2.60 Royal Dutch Shell PLC 2285.25 5.00 Royal Mail PLC 596.50 1.75 RSA Insurance Group 97.98 2.20 SABMiller PLC 2777.50 10.50 Sage Group (The) PLC 416.50 0.20 Sainsbury (J) PLC 344.80 -0.37 Schroders PLC 2583.00 12.00 Severn Trent PLC 1777.50 4.00 Shire PLC 3229.00 10.35 Smith & Nephew PLC 944.75 4.00 Smiths Group PLC 1380.50 2.00 Sports Direct Intrntnl 719.75 1.00 SSE PLC 1381.50 -8.00 Standard Chartered PLC 1288.75 -2.50 Standard Life PLC 386.55 -0.04 Tate & Lyle PLC 659.75 2.32 Tesco PLC 325.30 0.57 Travis Perkins PLC 1889.50 7.00 TUI Travel PLC 441.40 1.80 Tullow Oil PLC 776.75 8.50 Unilever PLC 2369.00 21.00 United Utilities Group 756.00 3.31 Vodafone Group PLC 220.03 1.60 Weir Group PLC 2280.00 46.00 Whitbread PLC 4107.00 30.00 William Hill PLC 346.20 -0.81 Wm Morrison Sprmrkts 235.20 1.40 Wolseley PLC 3336.50 14.10 WPP PLC 1352.50 6.00

% C H G. -0.03 -0.64 0.66 0.43 0.76 0.47 0.28 0.78 0.30 0.60 0.48 0.70 0.64 0.34 0.19 0.46 0.96 0.60 0.45 0.48 0.53 0.00 0.35 0.57 0.47 0.44 0.88 0.65 0.77 1.17 0.49 0.19 0.63 0.55 0.00 0.72 0.52 0.91 1.65 1.69 0.11 0.00 0.77 -0.20 0.00 0.76 0.22 0.29 2.30 0.38 0.05 -0.11 0.47 0.23 0.32 0.43 0.15 0.14 -0.58 -0.19 -0.01 0.35 0.18 0.37 0.41 1.11 0.89 0.44 0.73 2.06 0.74 -0.23 0.60 0.42 0.45

VOLUME 350.50 4.41 298.95 16.12 152.23 37.35 125.37 196.85 131.15 71.60 316.11 2,989.14 48.05 31.32 2,818.84 26.17 79.33 41.55 403.34 23.04 293.36 25.43 334.70 149.32 657.79 13,337.34 23.86 169.40 28.04 44.82 80.77 132.49 7.16 171.51 69.03 23.37 52.41 127.95 69.80 189.36 93.84 63.79 35.28 517.97 550.00 247.18 259.55 119.17 3,710.02 251.90 30.07 693.26 6.14 35.86 175.71 110.21 18.75 26.98 146.86 489.54 184.40 97.75 670.51 17.55 26.27 231.29 129.50 83.25 6,020.33 81.49 18.93 247.94 668.94 7.92 48.00

FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

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20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

EWN

Loans alliance for Santander/Citroen BANCO SANTANDER was yesterday (Wednesday) due to officially announce a loans alliance with PSA Peugeot Citroen. The Madrid-based bank is expected to enter 50-50 joint ventures with Banque PSA Finance, Peugeot’s financing

branch, sources told news agency Reuters. It would also acquire a portfolio of loans from the carmaker’s financing arm. Consecutive rating downgrades driven by a drop in car sales in Europe forced the French Government to

intervene, guaranteeing €7 billion of Banque PSA Finance borrowing. This was part of a rescue totalling €18.5 billion. The operation would solve Peugeot’s capital and cash flow problems, and would eventually replace the French state

PEUGEOT: Santander is to finance the car-maker’s financing branch.

guarantees. The new agreement is set to be announced alongside a

Spanish university graduates facing problems in the labour market SPANISH university graduates are having problems finding their place in the labour market. Almost 40 per cent of them hold a post for which they are overqualified, a report by the Ministry of Education has revealed. Of the students graduated in 2012, 22.8 per cent of them have a job that requires a lesser qualification, whereas the job of 16.8 per cent of them requires no qualification. This situation is more seen with graduates in Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities.

The report on the Spanish university system also reveals that graduates don’t have the type of contract expected for their qualification; 26.1 per cent of them have a full-time temporary contract, while 9.6 per cent have a part-time temporary contract. Just 8.4 per cent of Spanish university graduates have an indefinite contract, but only part-time. Unemployment rates among graduate students in Spain also show discouraging results. In 2011, 9.7 per cent of unemployed men

in Spain aged between 25 and 64 held a university degree. Among women this figure went up to 11 per cent. This clearly contrasts with the average unemployment rate of graduates within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which was of 4.2 and 5 per cent respectively. But figures are even worse for younger people, with 16.2 per cent of graduates aged between 25 and 32 being unemployed, more than double in the OECD (6.8 per cent).

recapitalisation deal with Chinese car-maker Dongfeng. Chinese press reported that the state-owned manufacturer is about to close an operation to buy 14 per cent of Peugeot’s capital. This would make Dongfeng one of the three main shareholders of the French group. Later in January, Dongfeng and Peugeot reached an outline deal to increase its capital by €3 billion. PSA Peugeot has a loan portfolio of €22 billion in 23 markets, of which €11.64 billion come from Western Europe and €8.38 billion from France. In the first quarter of 2013, it loaned nearly 376,000 vehicles, yielding €151 million in profits, 25 per cent less than in the same period the previous year.

Spain 49th in 2014 Index of Economic Freedom SPAIN is the 49th freest economy in the world, the 2014 Index of Economic Freedom published by The Wall Street Journal and The Heritage Foundation says. This concept, defined by the report as the fundamental right of every human to control his or her own labour and property, is measured based on 10 quantitative and qualitative factors. Spain’s economic freedom score is of 67.2 points, 0.8 points lower than last year when it ranked 46th. This is mainly due to declines in the management of government spending, business freedom, and labour freedom. These elements, the annual index points out, have outweighed small improvements in trade freedom and freedom from corruption. Within the European Union, Spain ranks 22nd, behind Switzerland (first), Ireland (second) and the United Kingdom (fifth).

WORLD ECONOMY: Spain’s economic freedom scored 67.2 points. It is, however, placed in a better position than bigger economic powers like France (33rd), or Italy (35th). Europe’s score is still above world averages, but the index editors point out that it “has been undergoing tumultuous and uncertain times,” such as the sovereign debt crisis affecting the Eurozone. “Europe’s overall economic freedom rating remains undermined by weak scores in the management of public

spending, reflecting the cost of expanding government services and transfer payments that plainly hinder both productivity growth and dynamic job creation,” the editors wrote. In the 20 years this index has been published, the economic freedom score of Spain has improved by 4.4 points. The greatest achievements have been accomplished in the areas of market openness

and freedom from corruption, the report indicates. On a more negative note, the index points out that Spain continues to score below the world average in fiscal freedom, government spending and labour freedom. According to James Roberts, the index shows “that when economic freedom increases, global economy grows and poverty decreases.” Roberts, a researcher at The Heritage Foundation, made this claim during the launch of the index in Spain organised by think-tank FAES. “Countries with higher levels of economic freedom substantially outperform others in aspects such as economic growth, per-capita incomes, health care, education, protection of the environment, reduction of poverty and general welfare,” he explained. Roberts was joined by the Secretary of State for Trade, Jaime Garcia-Legaz, who

recognised Spain’s economy has relatively worsened. In that sense, Garcia-Legaz pointed out that the Spanish regions should take additional measures to control the public expenditure. “Spain needs to make an additional effort in budgetary consolidation and public expenditure reduction but, mainly because of the current distribution and the level of expenditure, it is the Autonomous Communities which have a longer way ahead than the State Administration or local administrative bodies,” he stated. Finally, Garcia-Legaz mentioned the two-year time lag that comes together with the methodology of the index. This means the 2014 edition analyses data up to June 2012, and that further measures taken by the Spanish Government to improve the economy will be shown in the index from next year.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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FINANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL

Saving for a sunny day

BUSINESS EXTRA

Debt down

SPANISH professional footdangerous to our ball clubs reduced their finances. They instil in us debt with the Tax Agency a carefree attitude to life by 20.8 per cent between A look at finance (and spending). “Another January 1, 2012 and May for females glass of wine?” - “Sure 31, 2013. This is €156.8 Jane why not, it’s such a million in 17 months. beautiful day after all!” Plunkett Compared to being jane.plunkett@euroweeklynews.com rained on, walking around the shops is a joy too INCOME by fines, sanctions when the sun is shining and late fees has increased N light of the and people are chirpy and by 20 per cent since 2011, torrential snow, rain happy. The temptation to according and storms across to figures leave the house, get released by the Spanish Spain the past few weeks, outside and ultimately go Finance Ministry. the common saying ‘save shopping is much for a rainy day’ came to stronger on a nice day, mind and I couldn’t help than when the wind is but think that in this blowing sideways. And, CRUZCAMPO will be the country it should be the as opposed to a wet day new official beer in Restalia opposite. ‘Save for a when it’s necessary Group restaurants (100 sunny day.’ to look down at Montaditos, La Sureña and Having experienced It’s on the ground as TGB) in a move that has gale force winds, lashing we walk, on a been linked to the rain and bitter cold over CHEERS: Another glass of wine on a beautiful sunny day. sunny sunny day it’s international expansion of the past weekend it was days that much easier the at home, relaxing, this country, slightly disappointing at the entire weekend. company. The to get Heineken-owned brand has first to have to cancel The fact that I was reading, eating and most where the we spend distracted by 23.3 per cent of the plans, but by Sunday trapped indoors for fear importantly not streets come more all the pretty draught beer market share. evening I was delighted of being swept away by spending money. to life and shop windows It’s the sunny days we beckon us to go sit to notice that I had spent my umbrella resulted in a grand total of €12 over enjoying a cosy weekend have to watch out for in outdoors sipping coffee or selling the latest fashions. So I beg to change the drinking wine. A sunny Saturday and Sunday age-old expression and CUTBACKS have allowed Spanish the 17 Spanish regions to afternoon is not complete encourage around where I live residents to ‘save for a save an estimated €4.04 billion between 2011 and unless it is spent with sunny day.’ And considering there is 2013, sources of the friends and family having Q. In a recent copy of the Euro Weekly Ministry a long lunch out on a a heck-load of sunny days Finance News I found your article about the announced. This is 15.9 in this country, it’d be sunny terrace. You and the municipal vehicle tax being charged It’s the warm rays of best to get saving straight per cent more than Law in Spain on a car that was sold years ago but predicted last year. sunshine that are away! By David Searl never had the registration changed. We have a similar problem. We still pay tax to the Ayuntamiento in Salobreña on a car we sold years ago. The car was registered in Spain but was sold in Belgium and is now registered in Belgium. The new owner of the car (who is resident in Belgium) sent me the documents as proof. From that previous article, I understand that there is a document available somewhere which can solve the problem with the Ayuntamiento THE Ministry for Industry, Tourism and Sources at the ministry led by Jose and with the Trafico. Do you know where I can Trade has presented a new system for Manuel Soria said the overall savings with find that document? Can it be downloaded from calculating the price of electricity in the new system would be of more than the Internet? Spanish households from April. €200 million. I am now in Belgium. I will not go to Spain The new mechanism will set the This means an average 3 per cent until May and even then I will not be able to go variable part of the electricity bill, which reduction in consumer’s bills, and would to ‘the Trafico’ in Granada. accounts for 45 per cent of the total, in have an effect on some 16 million users. E.A. (Belgium) accordance with the average price on the The ministry will also give electricity wholesale market. suppliers the possibility to offer an annual A. Yes, there is a form on which have been sent out The remaining 55 per cent will remain electricity fee. This pricing system, especially aimed which you can declare the to owners of older a fixed rate. vehicle is no longer in your vehicles. However, it will Users with counters that calculate at small and medium sized companies, possession. As of a week not ‘solve your problems’ presentation of docuelectricity usage per hour, also known as will offer a stable but higher price. The new proposals put an end to the ago, this form can be by itself. I recommend you ments for you while you ‘intelligent’ counters, will pay depending auctions that set the price of electricity, downloaded from Trafico find a good gestoria near are in Belgium. on the market price every hour. website, www.dgt.es, at Salobreña or in Granada They should not charge These counters, which are available for and will reduce by 10 per cent the cost of ‘Cartas’ referring to letters which can handle the a very high fee. an average €43 plus €10 installation, can energy. The older system generated an be found in seven million Spanish extra cost in energy of €1.16 billion Send your questions for David Searl through lawyers Ubeda-Retana & Associates in Fuengirola at between 2010 and 2013. households. Ask@lawtaxspain.com, or call 952 667 090.

Loose change

More income

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Big save

More on de-registration of cars sold

New electricity pricing system to come in April

OPINION & COMMENT

Radiotherapy needs to be nearer home I HAVE recently finished radiotherapy at the Hospital Clinic Benidorm, referred there by the Denia Hospital. Firstly I found everyone at both hospitals very friendly and caring and wish to thank them. My only problem was I found the travelling from Javea to Benidorm every day quite tiring, also quite expensive even using my own car, but finding someone to drive me. I talked to another patient who travelled from Pego every day. I wondered why Denia Hospital did not have this facility considering the number of people being treated for various cancer problems. I realise it is probably a question of funding such a machine and wondered if it were possible for some of the charities and associations to channel some of the money raised to fund such a project. I was lucky that my treatment did not run into many weeks but some of the people I spoke to were having to go for up to 27 weeks. Please could this be considered bearing in mind the number of people of all nationalities who require treatment. Patricia, Javea (Alicante)

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Letters

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aware that they are in the area again. Jill Tayler, Salares, (Malaga)

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Thanks Ric! I WOULD like to say a big thank you to your columnist in Almeria, Ric Polansky, for his article in edition 1492 regarding the almond blossom trail. We did the trip today (from our base at Cabo de Gata) and thoroughly enjoyed it. We will go back in a couple of weeks’ time to see if there is more blossom at the higher levels. We wouldn’t have known about this route had it not been for you. Rowan and Bernard Lee, Cabo de Gata, (Almeria) TAKEN FROM MY WINDOW IN LOS ALMACHARES, NERJA.

I have complained to the council about the constant sobbing, howling and screeching that is ubiquitous and uncivilised. I haven’t even had the courtesy of a reply and the girl I spoke to said ‘they are just dogs!’ Beverley Saunders, Alhaurin el Grande (Malaga)

Total sympathy Party town I AM in total sympathy with Dave from Turre’s remarks regarding cruel dog owners. (Issue 1492). We own two rescue dogs, and in the three-and-a-half years we have lived here I have also rescued eight puppies that were left out in the sun to die and were involved in the rescue of an adult dog. I have tried talking with Spanish dog owners. “It doesn’t matter” was the man’s reply when I asked why a dog in very poor condition was always on a leash, in all weather. Another looked at me blankly when I suggested that it was unacceptable for her dog to have been barking all night.

20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

I WAS angered by the letter from Ms Morrison regarding noise levels (Issue 1492). Benidorm is a holiday resort, people spend hard-earned money to holiday here and have not come here to behave as if they were sat at home in the UK. In 1950 Benidorm was a fishing village, and has grown into a business which generates a lot of wealth. Brits who decide to move to Spain, I’m presuming Jane Morrison is one, and make a home in the epicentre of a holiday resort should have more sense. All the Spanish that I have met who make a living

WHEN YOU WRITE All letters, whether by email or post, should carry the writer’s postal address, NIE and contact number though only the name and town will be published. Letters may also be edited. Readers who have missed earlier correspondence can see all letters posted on:

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with their businesses in the resort live out in the hills. I would suggest Jane Morrison move to a more suitable location. Failing that, she should speak with the owner of her apartment block and suggest that he not be so greedy as to rent out an apartment in a residential block to holidaymakers to make a fast buck. Benidorm has gained a particular kind of market which locals and expats should be a bit more grateful for. With flights, apartments and newer trends beginning to grow in other European resorts, groups

Tommi Tinkerboy (By e-mail) may well start to holiday elsewhere. Enjoy the partying while it lasts, the quietness can be so much worse. Mark (by e-mail)

Be careful WE live just outside Salares (not far from Competa) and we think we might have been visited by bogus gas men. We had three phone calls from ‘a gas company’ saying they were coming to inspect our installation. We were suspicious but let them in and when they started to tell us what was wrong we pointed out that we had a legal revision and if there was a problem we would use our own plumber, who had been in the house only a few days earlier and replaced one of the pipes they said was illegal. They left but not before I had taken a photo of their very old van which was painted in orange and white but had no lettering. People need to be

Barbaric practice IT was good to see your article on the subject of Female Genital Mutilation. It is a practice which has always horrified me and it is good to see that the Spanish authorities are making an effort to try to rule it out amongst families from countries where it is common practice. It may be traditional, but it is also barbaric, and women need to know the threats to which they are exposing their daughters. A good education for both boys and girls, in most cases, would be much more effective in making sure young women remain ‘pure’ until marriage, if this is what their culture ordains. Most importantly, teach men to control their sexual urges and respect the women and girls. I have ordered one of the bracelets you mentioned from www.mundocooperante.org and if the money is just one step closer to preventing a girl from being mutilated, it will have been worth it. I will look into doing more in this cause. Amanda Yates, Benalmadena (Malaga)

The views expressed and opinions given in Letters are not necessarily those of the EWN publishers. They accept no responsibility for accuracy of information, errors, omissions or statements, and reject claims arising out of any action that a company or individual may take on the basis of information contained therein.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

Expat problem with the Scottish question...

NE part of the whole LEAPY LEE Scottish independence question that doesn’t SAYS IT seem to have been OTHERS THINK IT covered is the effect it will have on expatriates. In fact, we are, I believe, taking What on earth is going to happen the first faltering steps into what will to all the thousands of Scots who, be the norm in a thousand years or should the vote be aye, suddenly so; that is, to be merely Earth find themselves - among all the dwellers. (Particularly after our other aggravations - no longer contact with other life-forms.) If we members of the EU? last long enough, I truly believe we This will surely remove a whole will all be coffee-coloured, tall and host of entitlements straight away. rather attractive people, peacefully No automatic residency, no access living side by side on this beautiful to free health-care. Pension planet of ours. (Dream on, Leapy!) problems and presumably, as non Meanwhile, back to Bannockburn. EU members, a positive deluge of I truly will be sorry if Scotland tries forms to fill in. If it’s anything like to go it alone and seriously question my American friends have whether the majority of Scots truly experienced, this is in itself a believe it will be of benefit, or nightmare. Contrary to popular merely want to lift their kilts to the belief I am not totally anti EC; I’m Sassenachs? only against certain aspects of it, I do know that large numbers of like open borders and Brussels Scots truly hate the Brits, as do attempting to control all we say, many from Ireland, and frankly it’s breathe or think. difficult to blame them; but really, as I do feel in many ways there are adults and hopefully intelligent, lots of perks to be enjoyed by being forward-thinking people, can’t we members of one community. just put all the differences behind us

and move forward united, setting an example to a world that is already splitting apart, basically because neighbours hate each other? Hopefully we’ve come a long way from the Hatfields and McCoys, and frankly I would hate to have to show my passport to visit a country I have always proudly regarded as a part of my own. Bear in mind, the old clichés are often the best: United we stand, divided we fall. Let’s hope, common sense prevails, that the nos have it and the whole sorry debacle is put to rest for good. Now, what was that you said about beating us in the Six Nations!? Up yer kilts, the lotta ye! Well, 40 years ago I wrote a musical. In a couple of weeks’ time it is being played to one of the

GOING IT ALONE: Independence for Scotland will create problems for Scots in Spain. biggest impresarios in the UK. Will I be zimmering up that red carpet at last? Wish me luck. I will keep ya posted.

Keep the faith Love Leapy Leapylee2002@ gmail.com

‘Señor Jose Ignacio Wert regrets...’ Flickr_La Moncloa Gobierno de Espa#F015

Cassandra Nash

A weekly look and not entirely impartial reaction - to the Spanish political scene

JOSE IGNACIO WERT, hapless Minister of Education, Culture and Sport, missed the recent Goyas. His diary was too full to attend Spain’s ‘Oscars’, he announced beforehand but he would have stayed away if it had been as empty as Mother Hubbard’s cupboard. Disliked by all but his own party – and even there he has critics – he is repudiated for debilitating cuts to education and doing little for the arts. “Making films in Spain is an act of heroism,” declared a bitter Enrique Gonzalez Macho, President of Spain’s Film Academy during the awards ceremony. Last year’s Goyas, which Wert was thick-skinned enough to attend, turned into an orgy of anti-Wert speeches, jibes, jeers and catcalls. Not

STAYED AWAY: Jose Ignacio Wert. relishing a repetition, he stayed away. Heroism is for filmmakers, not immensely unpopular ministers three months before the European elections.

Keep calm PRINCESS CRISTINA, younger daughter of King Juan Carlos, made history by being called to

testify in the Noos corruption case. She and her lawyers were “delighted” with the chance to put the record straight regarding her involvement in her husband’s business dealings. The private prosecution’s lawyer nevertheless declared afterwards that she was no wiser after the hearing than before it. Beforehand, as the

media waited for the royal car to turn into the back entrance of the Palma courthouse, the cameras trained briefly on an awning over a shop window. “Keep calm and carry on,” it recommended in English. Spain’s royal family is attempting to do this, but it remains to be seen whether the strategy will be successful. Cristina’s claim that she “trusted Iñaki” and “left everything to him” will endear her only to people who believed her in the first place.

Taken short CLEANLINESS might be next to godliness but the 7,000 portaloos installed in Valencia City for Pope Benedict XVI’s visit suggested incontinence. They cost the taxpayer €2.65 million but few were used, although the Gurtel setup and the politicians in their pockets weren’t worried about that. Where there’s muck there’s money and that goes for portaloos, too.

From the heart DAVID CAMERON, rattled by the September independence vote, made an emotional appeal to Scotland to remain inside the UK. This will be the real ‘in or out’ deal and nothing like the referendum that Cataluña wants, which would ask whether the population wants an independence vote. He had been advised to stay out of the Scottish issue and not to get sentimental about the UK, Cameron said, but he cared “far too much” to stay out of it. Hard to imagine a similar plea and admission from Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy who appears incapable of making an emotional appeal to anyone, let alone Cataluña. He and the majority of monolingual Spaniards not only see the prospect of Catalan independence as an act of hostility, but as an insult, too.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

Pampered peers and toffs in tiaras cappuccinos “inferior”, there’s no melba toast, no Chilean Breaking Views reds, no peanut butter at A Costa del Sol resident for a breakfast and the baked number of years, Nora is the potatoes often come with author of psychological suspense and crime thrillers. margarine not butter. Good To comment on any of the issues raised in her column, grief! What sacrifices! go to www.euroweeklynews.com/columnists/ nora-johnson But that’s not all, as one peer noted: “We all ordered the WAR in Syria, turmoil pork escallop [sic]. It was elsewhere and the worst UK uneatable [sic].” And another: floods in living memory. And “The salmon in my sandwich the members of the House of today was awful. I hope Lords, what do they do? something can be done.” But our greatest sympathy, Complain about their surely, should be “awful” food - only £9.50 for a full roast The Lords is reserved for the dinner, mind - an institution peer who declared that he was despite each increasingly “scarred” after a receiving a £300reservation was a-day subsistence out of step cancelled at the allowance and their with modern last minute, and that restaurants £1.3m in Britain his wife couldn’t eat taxpayer-provided elsewhere as she was subsidies a year. The selection of yoghurts is, wearing a tiara! by all accounts, lacking in Such triviality; haven’t the choice, the cheese tasteless, Lords got more important the sweet coconut canapés a things to do? Probably not, I “strange” starter. Moreover, the fear. table layouts are “chaotic”, the Stories like this only serve to

Nora Johnson

TRIFLING: Moans by members of the House of Lords.

reinforce the notion that the Lords is an institution increasingly out of step with modern Britain. These petulant moans seem insignificant compared to reports of pensioners struggling to choose between heat and food, and citizens resorting to

foodbanks to feed their families. This is a place where convicted peers like Lord Jeffrey Archer can be reinstalled and still influence laws that govern the rest of the country while drawing £300 per day.

Not to mention Lord Hanningfield, sentenced to nine months for expenses fraud, who admitted to regularly “clocking in” for matters of minutes to claim the allowance. He suggested it’s normal practice and he knew of 50 others who do the same. Now, no-one should complain about the quality of meals subsidised by taxpayers. If you want better, your lordships, pay for it yourselves or go to one of the many excellent nearby restaurants. Alternatively, flask and sandwiches come to mind. But then, doubtless, there’d be other complaints. All of which would inevitably go on longer than those furniture sales…

Nora Johnson’s thrillers Retribution, Soul Stealer, The De Clerambault Code (www.nora-johnson.com) available from Amazon in paperback/eBook (€0.89;£0.77) and iBookstore. Profits to Cudeca.

FINANCE Spain’s asset reporting law applies to anyone who is resident in Spain and owns assets outside the country worth €50,000 or more. The deadline is 31st March each year. We receive many queries from people who are not sure if they need to file a report or not. Residency is an important starting point. The obligation to report your overseas assets on Modelo 720 is only imposed on Spanish residents. If you own property here but are not resident, it does not apply to you, but you need to be 100% sure you do not fulfil any of the residency criteria. Tax residency in Spain can be more complex than you realise. Many people believe they are not resident but actually are, and so should be paying tax. This issue is even more critical with the reporting law, since the consequences for failing to report are much higher than ever before – you can lose more than the value of the asset. The government is also aware that some people who meet the residency criteria choose not to declare themselves as such. The tax agency has been cracking

EUROPEAN PRESS

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20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

EWN

Residency Issues And Spain’s Reporting Law By Neil Jenkins, Senior Partner, Blevins Franks

down on this, for example by looking through utility bills and lists of foreign children in local schools. It can also use information received from abroad under exchange of financial information agreements. If you were resident in Spain in 2012, you should have submitted Form 720 last year. You then only need to report again if the value of an asset increased by €20,000 or

more, or if you bought or sold an asset. If you became resident in 2013, you need to make your first declaration now. You report the value of assets as at 31st December 2013. With bank accounts you also need to include the average balance over the last three months of 2013, and with property the acquisition value. If you became resident this year, you will need to report assets as at 31st December 2014, so your first deadline is 31st March 2015. Tax residency in Spain You are resident for tax purposes - and so liable for income, capital gains and wealth taxes on your worldwide assets and subject to Spanish succession tax rules - if any of the following apply. • You spend more than 183 days

here in one calendar year. • Your “centre of economic interests” is in Spain. • Your “centre of vital interests” is in Spain - i.e. your spouse and/or your minor children live here, even if you spend under 183 days here. There is no split year treatment in Spain. You are either resident or not resident for the whole year. You may be regarded as UK resident at the same time, in which case you need to look at the UK/Spain Tax Treaty rules. If you own property and spend much time here each year, you need to know where you stand, tax wise, so you can establish the best way forward. With specialist advice you could structure your assets to be tax efficient in Spain, and so that you need not worry about Form 720.

The only way to be certain that you understand all the implications of the complicated asset reporting law, the residency issues and how to legitimately structure your assets tax efficiently in Spain, is to take professional advice from an established tax and wealth manager. Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual is advised to seek personalised advice. To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com

OPINION & COMMENT

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20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

EWN

The songwriter’s funeral D

URING the 1960s, we took for granted a constant stream of original music and lyrics. Great melodies, we still swing to them nearly 60 years on. Why is it that no one writes music with lyrics of similar appeal today? Where are the songwriters like Mitch Murray? An otherwise ordinary guy, he produced hits for the Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Freddy Garrity, Freddy and the Dreamers, the Dave Clark Five. We youngsters went to The Cavern and Iron Door, tuned in to Radio Luxembourg and the Top 20. We hung out with Kenny Everett; we enjoyed music composed by very ordinary people. We thought that was the way it had always been; perhaps it was. I do not recall 1960s performers singing 1910 numbers. One of 12 children born to a tobacco farmer, Dolly Parton wrote Dolly Parton.

CREDIT s_buckley_shutterstock.

Mike Walsh Mike Walsh. Based in Mediterranean Spain, is an international journalist, author and professional writer.

over 3,000 songs. Country music icons who wrote their own hits composed the best ballads back then: George Jones, Tammy Wynette, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Buddy Holly and Waylon Jennings. Kris Kristofferson’s ballads were universally acclaimed. He wrote his greatest hits: Me and Bobby McGee, Sunday Morning Coming Down and many more. Of Swedish background, he was the son of an army officer. The Swedish group ABBA wrote their own songs. Many of the 50s and 60s greatest hits were composed by ordinary lads who, a year or so earlier, had been newspaper delivery boys. Charlie Landsborough wrote hits between shifts as a Birkenhead bus conductor. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and George Harrison never received a formal musical education. Did any of the 50s and 60s legendary songwriters and singers? Rushing home from college or school, they

scribbled their lyrics. Unable to read music they practiced by ear as their mothers bawled at them that their tea was on the table and going cold. Their music, much of it swinging, melodic, wistful and romantic was to take the world by storm. Paul McCartney wrote many hits including ‘Hey Jude,’ his life was extraordinarily ordinary. He dated my sister’s best friend and fathered her child. From such humble beginnings, he and scores like him from perfectly ordinary backgrounds, rocked the world with their music. If they could do it, then why no one since? Where did it all go wrong? Where are the songwriters and singers today? Is anyone writing music that will get them up on the floor in 2065? Good music is not rocket science. Look at the lyrics, look at the simplistic notes. For goodness sake, college kids wrote it. It is great popular music not only composed but also performed by young people who never had a musical lesson in their lives. Theirs was a world that, unlike today’s, was discerning yet they took that world by storm. We owe a lot to those born in the early 1940s, but very little to those born from the 1960s onwards.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa del Almería

Thursday

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TV LISTING

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11:00pm Sunday

•Daniel DayLewis •Sally Field •David Strathairn •Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Lincoln (Film, 2012) In 19th-century America, civil war continues to rage between the Confederate south and the federal United States. Both sides grow tired of the war, but one issue keeps federal leader Abraham Lincoln (Daniel DayLewis) from forming peace the South's insistence on the use of slavery.

Tuesday BBC1/

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CH4/ 4:30pm Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast 5:30pm Deal or No Deal 6:35pm The Devil Wears Prada 8:40pm Channel 4 News 9:00pm Time Team Special 10:00pm Bridesmaids

ITV2/ 4:10pm Kangaroo Jack 4:50pm Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway 6:15pm Junior 7:15pm FYI Daily 7:20pm Junior 8:30pm Ocean's Thirteen 9:30pm FYI Daily 9:35pm Ocean's Thirteen 11:00pm The Only Way is Essex

Monday BBC1/ 5:30pm Antiques Road Trip 6:15pm Pointless 7:00pm BBC News 7:30pm Regional News 8:00pm The One Show 8:30pm Inside Out 9:00pm EastEnders 9:30pm Panorama 10:00pm Silk

BBC2/ 5:50pm 'Allo, 'Allo! 6:15pm Antiques Roadshow 7:00pm Revenge of the Eggheads 7:30pm Great Continental Railway Journeys 8:00pm Top Gear 9:00pm University Challenge 9:30pm Food and Drink 10:00pm Horizon

ITV/ 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm A Great Welsh Adventure with Griff Rhys Jones 9:30pm Coronation Street 10:00pm DCI Banks

CH4/ 5:30pm Come Dine with Me 6:00pm Coach Trip 6:30pm Superstar Dogs: Countdown to Crufts 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 8:55pm Paralympic Winter Games... The Countdown 9:00pm Dispatches 9:30pm Food Unwrapped 10:00pm One Born Every Minute

ITV2/ 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 8:30pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm Mom

Wednesday

5:20pm Are You Being Served? 5:50pm 'Allo, 'Allo! 6:15pm Antiques Roadshow 7:00pm Revenge of the Eggheads 7:30pm Great Continental Railway Journeys 8:00pm Permission Impossible 9:00pm The Great British Sewing Bee 10:00pm The Necessary War 11:00pm QI

ITV/ 4:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm UEFA Champions League 11:00pm ITV News at Ten and Weather

CH4/ 4:30pm Deal or No Deal 5:30pm Come Dine with Me 6:00pm Coach Trip 6:30pm Superstar Dogs: Countdown to Crufts 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 8:55pm Paralympic Winter Games... The Countdown 9:00pm Kirstie's Best of Both Worlds 10:00pm The Taste 11:00pm Strippers

ITV2/ 4:05pm The Jeremy Kyle Show 5:10pm The Real Housewives of New Jersey 6:05pm The Millionaire Matchmaker 7:00pm Dinner Date 8:00pm You've Been Framed! 8:30pm You've Been Framed! 9:00pm Two and a Half Men 9:30pm Two and a Half Men 10:00pm The Vampire Diaries 11:00pm Celebrity Juice

BBC2/ 4:30pm Bergerac 5:20pm Are You Being Served? 5:50pm 'Allo, 'Allo! 6:15pm Antiques Roadshow 7:00pm Revenge of the Eggheads 7:30pm Great Continental Railway Journeys 8:00pm Permission Impossible 9:00pm The Restaurant Man 10:00pm Line of Duty 11:00pm Inside No 9 11:30pm Newsnight

ITV/ 4:00pm The Alan Titchmarsh Show 5:00pm Tipping Point 6:00pm The Chase 7:00pm Local News and Weather 7:30pm ITV News and Weather 8:00pm Emmerdale 8:30pm Coronation Street 9:00pm The FA Cup Replay. 11:20pm ITV News at Ten and Weather 11:55pm The FA Cup

CH4/ 4:30pm Deal or No Deal 5:30pm Come Dine with Me 6:00pm Coach Trip 6:30pm Superstar Dogs: Countdown to Crufts 7:00pm The Simpsons 7:30pm Hollyoaks 8:00pm Channel 4 News 8:55pm Paralympic Winter Games... The Countdown 9:00pm The Restoration Man 10:00pm 24 Hours in A and E 11:00pm First Dates

OPINION & COMMENT

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very country’s government seems partial to baffling its subjects with inordinate amounts of bureaucracy - but if there were a league table, Spain would surely take the top spot. Here red tape is wound and tied in ways worthy of a ‘50 Shades of Grey’ novel. Even the great Houdini would struggle to break free. For those of us who were here last April, the memory of the painstaking 720 declarations is still raw in our minds - a hastily put together and ambiguous initiative by the government Ulrica Marshall demanding every single Expat Strife detail of our finances but Swedish-born Ulrica is a freelance journalist living in Mallorca with her with no assistance family. Her debut novel $Expat Wives whatsoever. Helpline? is available on Amazon and iBooks. To comment on any of the issues None whatsoever - raised in Ulrica’s column, go to presumably because no www.euroweeklynews.com/columnists/ulrica-marshall ulrica@euroweeklynews.com one actually understood it behind the hallowed gates of the Hacienda either. More recently I have had the dubious pleasure of purchasing a BUREAUCRACY: I think I can see flat in Spain (well, we all need to live somewhere). Of course, the Quick bank transfer? Nope. The taxman wanted a whopping 8.33 taxman was ever so keen to get per cent of the value of the his sticky fingers on every single property and since I am all for account we may have but never doing my bit to support this I am told - divulges his own. So, waning economy, I was only off I trotted - exactly as instructed somewhat miffed at paying. by said taxman - to get a banker's

20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

All tied up in red tape?

the clear need for lunchtime drinking in Spain! draft (being loath to circle the city with a briefcase of cash, which was his initial suggestion) and deposit it at a different bank into the Hacienda’s account. The lady at the first bank examined the cheque as if it may

be laced with anthrax, before shrugging her shoulders and insisting on ‘cash’ to fulfll my request. I hadn’t been expecting the red carpet, but some level of gratitude for such a major donation may have been

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appropriate. Not to be defeated I tried another, larger bank, which also featured on the Hacienda’s list of nominated banks. At first things seemed positive. They understood the concept of someone paying taxes, albeit they hadn’t actually witnessed it firsthand. Heads were scratched, the poor cheque examined for its apparent rarity, and by then I was practically begging them to take the money since any delay would definitely leave me with heavy fines. The cashier then spent the best part of an hour, directed by a colleague over the telephone, finding a way to credit the draft, which was completely correct, into the account of the Hacienda. On a positive note, I am now on first name terms with the kind cashier who refused to give up and my ability to jump through ridiculous hoops is coming along nicely. I also see the clear need for lunchtime drinking in Spain - the only thing to calm nerves so frayed by the infinite layers of bureaucracy that rule the roost here. No wonder so many Spaniards are unemployed dealing with the red tape is definitely a full time occupation.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

NEWS

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Advertising Feature

Toni.Martz/Flickr

AGUILAS’ carnival in Murcia, is recognised as one of the biggest and best of the carnivals that are held in Spain before the more serious Easter processions. The word carnival is derived from the word carnal, suggesting the revelation of more flesh than would be normal. This festival is thought to have started in the late 19th century, and like all other carnivals in Spain was stopped during the Franco era in deference to the strong moral nature of his regime. Later, as the country returned to democracy, most of these carnivals were reinstated. In Aguilas a number of mythical creatures play a role in the 14 day festival. ‘Musla’ is the spirit of festival and comes to prominence in the days leading up to the main processions. ‘Cuaresma’ then sweeps in trying to spoil the party. ‘Cuaresma’ is a miserable soul whose whole being is against fun, music and partying and seeks to dampen the fervour for the carnival events. She is overcome by Don Carnal, a fun loving creature who sends Cuaresma to flight and allows the fun to proceed. Finally we have ‘Hussona.’ A sort of contradiction of a creature who is part

Carros De Foc/Flickr

Your chance to see the Aguilas Carnival

AGUILAS CARVINAL: Recognised as one of the biggest and best held in Spain before Easter. animal, part human. Part civilised, part savage. Through Hussona, things return to normal after the main procession on the last night. This brilliant procession fills the streets on the last night with thousands of scantily clad people in bright sparkling costumes, accompanied

with bright lights and lively music. The mood in the town on this final evening is all about an exuberate outpouring of fun before the beginning of lent and a return to the more sober matters of life. If you want to join in the fun of the last night processions, David’s

Coachtrips are running coaches to the evening celebration. You can reserve your places online at www.coachtripsonline.com or by calling (0034) 966 785 910. Return journey is only €12. The date is Saturday March 8.

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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OPINION & COMMENT

Is security going too far? SECURITY at Heathrow airport in the UK recently confiscated a Toy Story Woody the cowboy doll because he was carrying a miniature gun.

NGELA WILLIAMS, aged 57, from La Marina Pueblo, Alicante, believes the authorities may have gone a bit too far in confiscating the Woody toy: “It is a bit over the top and they should be able to tell if it is just a toy or something more. I would worry now about taking my grandkids to the airport and what toys they were carrying.” Carl Barnett, aged 69, from urbanisation La Marina, Alicante, however, believes it is right that the authorities are extra cautious: “It is sad but in today’s climate it is better to be safe

Carl

Terry

Do you think airport security is going too far, or should the authorities keep their guard up against terrorists?

STREET TALK

than sorry.” Retired Carrie Hipkins, aged 62, also agrees: “You can’t take any risks and if he was carrying his child’s toy without his child it would look a little odd to the authorities, so I think they were right to check.” Terry and June Moore, aged 67 and 64, who live in Partaloa and are both retired agree that security is important, but feel a liitle leeway is required. “We don’t think a toy should be impounded. We are all for security, but common sense should prevail if they are satisfied it is a toy. In our opinion, the more security there is, the better.”

June

Ron Hardy, 78, who lives in Albox, Almeria, said: “It is a bit ridiculous to take away a toy. They should get a life and get out more. I haven’t flown in a long time but obviously airport security is generally very important. But Anne Collins, a 28-year-old waitress from Marbella, Malaga, feels airport security is getting too onerous. “Why on earth can you not take through a bottle of water? I was at Stansted airport and security was ridiculous. The queues to get through were about a mile long. Yes, there should be checks, but some of the security personnel seem to be jobsworths who take things to extremes.”

Ron

Angela

E W N 20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

CROSSWORDS

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Time Out EURO WEEKLY’S SPACE FOR YOU TO TAKE A BREAK, BE INFORMED AND ENJOY A CHALLENGE

Almería weather

NEW ON DVD

for next 7 days

MADDOCKS’ VIEW ON LIFE

Thor: The Dark World

Earth and the Nine Realms come under attack from the powerful Malekith and his age-old army that have existed since even before the creation of the universe. With the enemy proving near impossible to defeat, Thor approaches his adoptive brother Loki for help, despite his villainous past. Meanwhile, the hero becomes reacquainted with the woman he loves, astrophysicist Jane Foster, and takes her to Asgard in an attempt to protect her from harm.

TODAY

VELEZ RUBIO

TOMORROW HUERCAL OVERA

ALBOX

VELEZ RUBIO GARRUCHA ALBOX MOJACAR

ALMERIA

HUERCAL OVERA

RETAMAR GARRUCHA

Starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston and Anthony Hopkins. Directed by Alan Taylor. Runtime 112 minutes. Rated 12.

ADRA

ROQUETAS

MOJACAR ALMERIA RETAMAR ADRA

LEO (July 24 - August 23) A situation could become complicated if you do not plan

6-Star Quiz 1. A method of music instruction from the 1890s that emphasises physical response to the music, was the origin of the name of this duo, formed in 1980? 2. Formed in Birmingham in 1978, this rock band took their name from the villain of the cult science fiction film Barbarella? 3. Formed in Stockholm in 1972, this band’s name is an acronym of the first letters of the band members’ first names? 4. Having trouble getting repeat bookings, this progressive rock group, formed in Luton in 1969, took to changing their name frequently to continue playing the London club circuit. Band names were often supplied by their booking agents’ staff, one of whom, a history enthusiast, eventually christened them after an 18th-century agriculturist, who invented the horse-drawn see drill? 5. The name of this British rock band, formed in Deptford in 1977, comes from the band’s financial situation at the time of forming? 6. The name of this electronic music band, formed in 1980 in Basildon, Essex, was inspired by a French fashion magazine?

even more difficult to get out of. Being cosy is one thing, but getting bogged down, mentally and physically, is another. All you need is to keep your optimism alive and use your imagination. Perhaps you are spending too much time with an older person or someone who has a dim outlook on life. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Are you suffering from winter blues? Although it is a common feeling at this time of the year, keep optimistic. There is so much to look forward to, in fact, that you are spoilt for choice. Although your social life may be in a bit of a rut, some sparkling moves from you will get things moving.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Ruts are awful things to get into but

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 December 21) Recent events have perhaps left a gap in your social life that is hard to fill. Patience is needed because it would be foolish to rush into something new if your heart is involved. Concentrating on work and other people will alleviate any loneliness.

Sudoku Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3X3 box contains the digits 1-9. There’s no maths involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

CAPRICORN (December 22 January 20) A loss of patience with a situation shows this week but is not to your advantage. Whatever you feel, be subtle in your approach. Try to see your position clearly and the result will be that you realise you have more control than you thought. Seeking advice while being honest and telling the full story serves best.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) A feeling that you should totally commit yourself to something or someone this week should be avoided. You will come up against a brick wall if a situation is forced. Time is all that is required to see things change for the better.

UK NATIONAL LOTTERY

UK THUNDERBALL

IRISH LOTTO

EURO MILLIONS

Saturday February 15

Saturday February15

Saturday February 15

Friday February 14

7 17

14 18

BONUS BALL

THUNDERBALL

BONUS BALL

Almeria

CLEAR MAX 22C, MIN 12C MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

4 19

LA PRIMITIVA

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

12 2 C 12 2 S 12 3 C

MAX MIN

Mon - 11 5 C Tues - 11 4 Sh Wed - 12 5 Sh

Murcia MAX 17C, MIN 9C

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

CLOUDY MAX 15C, MIN 3C MAX MIN

MAX MIN

Mon - 17 10 Cl Tues - 17 10 Sh Wed - 18 10 Sh

18 9 C 16 9 Cl 16 10 Sh

CLEAR

Mon - 16 12 C Tues - 16 12 C Wed - 16 12 C

Madrid

Mallorca TODAY:

MAX MIN

15 11 C 14 11 Sh 15 12 C

TODAY:

MAX 19C, MIN 12C

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun -

Mon - 17 12 Sh Tues - 17 11 Sh Wed - 18 12 C

CLEAR MAX 17C, MIN 13C MAX MIN

MAX MIN

Mon - 14 10 Cl Tues - 14 10 Sh Wed - 14 9 Sh

Malaga SUNNY

MAX MIN

18 11 Cl 16 10 Sh 17 11 C

TODAY:

CLOUDY MAX 16C, MIN 9C 13 8 Sh 13 7 C 14 9 C

TODAY:

MAX 19C, MIN 12C

Benidorm

Barcelona TODAY:

SUNNY MAX MIN

Mon - 17 11 Cl Tues - 18 11 C Wed - 18 11 C

19 11 C 14 9 Sh 17 9 C

14 8 C 13 8 C 15 9 C S Sun,

TODAY:

MAX MIN

Mon - 16 11 C Tues - 15 11 Sh Wed - 15 11 C Cl Clear,

CLEAR

MAX 23C, MIN 11C

MAX MIN

Fri Sat Sun Fog,

Sn Snow,

MAX MIN

19 10 C 14 8 Sh 17 8 C C Cloud,

Mon - 19 9 C Tues - 19 10 C Wed - 19 10 C Sh Showers,

Th Thunder

Nonagram How many English words of four letters or more can you make from the nine letters in our Nonagram puzzle? Each letter may be used only once (unless the letter appears twice). Each word MUST CONTAIN THE CENTRE LETTER (in this case C) and there must be AT LEAST ONE NINE LETTER WORD. Plurals, vulgarities or proper nouns are not allowed.

TARGET:

Average: 14

Very good: 27

Good: 18

Excellent: 33

agar, cage, crag, ergo, gean, gear, goer, gone, gore, gran, ogre, raga, rage, rang, agone, agora, anger, argon, cager, cargo, conga, goner, grace, groan, orang, organ, range, agorae, angora, conger, garner, grocer, onager, orange, organa, ranger, arrange, carnage, groaner, ARROGANCE

REINTEGRO 21

EL GORDO DE LA PRIMITIVA

MASS

Sunday February 16

Saturday February 15

LUCKY STARS 2

TODAY:

Word Ladder

LOTTERY 15

Alicante TODAY:

MAX MIN

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) A lost cause tries to demand your attention, but you must try to see the situation for what it is. Sentimentality should not come into business or be allowed to upset your home life. What is past should remain so, do not torture yourself. Bring your mind and spirits up by looking forward to summer holidays.

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) The temptation to run round like a headless chicken is strong this week. There seem to be so many demands on your time that things become confusing. Be sure you are getting enough rest because this time of the year can be fraught for you.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Although health should be good, energy may be a little low. A bit of a

ahead. With a little thought and planning, matters can be kept simple which is always desirable. Be choosy about the company you keep because a bad character could taint by association.

mystery surrounds a close friend and your opinion may be sought. Hold fire until all the facts are known and you are sure a person has been honest with you because someone may try to keep you in the dark to get the right answer. .

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) Social activities are likely to change at the last minute. If energy levels are not as high as normal, use this week for planning. With holidays in mind, the summer seems far away but maybe a weekend trip will fill the gap. Spending time with an old friend reminds you of how things used to be.

Born February 23, 1954. Rosendo Mercado Ruiz is a Spanish rock singer and guitarist. He was a founding member of bands Ñu and Leño, and is considered to be a prominent exponent of so-called ʻSpanish rock.ʼ He released his first solo album in 1985, and has had more than a dozen since. In 2006 he was awarded the Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts.

41 48

42 53

REINTEGRO 4

NOUN

Move from the start word (MASS) to the end word (NOUN) in the same number of steps as there are rungs on the Word Ladder. You must only change one letter at a time.

MOON NOON NOUN

ARIES (March 21 - April 20) Extra pressures at work leave you feeling less than energetic. Check on your health and don't go overboard with the physical activities. Set out to become more active, socially, and maximise on relaxation. With an eye to the summer and holidays, start planning a getaway. Who will you take with you?

BAND NAMES

Your Stars

IF ITʼS YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK: The Piscean desire to find an ideal mate brings an edge to the months ahead. It is almost as though you are daring fate to tempt you.

MASS MOSS MOOS

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) There may not be enough time to do everything you want, so why can't you just reorganise your life so there is? Not as easy as it sounds, Pisces, unless you learn the magic word: no. Know your limits and stick to them. If you've got this far with a partner you will know it's meant to be. .

ROQUETAS

1. EURYTHMICS, 2. DURAN DURAN, 3. ABBA, 4. JETHRO TULL, 5. DIRE STRAITS, 6. DEPECHE MODE

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CROSSWORDS

Crosswords

20 - 26 February 2014 / Costa de Almería

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