News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

employment

Understanding Incapacity and Vacation Rights in Spain: A Guide for Expats

For expats living and working in Spain, navigating the complexities of Spanish labor laws, especially when it comes to health and employment, can be daunting. A recent clarification on the rights of workers declared with permanent incapacity has shed light on an important aspect: the treatment of unused vacation days.

The Scenario: Incapacity and Vacation Days

When a worker is declared with permanent incapacity, it often follows a lengthy period of temporary incapacity, during which the individual may not have been able to enjoy their annual leave. According to Spanish labor law, workers who are on temporary sick leave for extended periods, such as the 18 months required before applying for permanent incapacity, do not lose their right to these unused vacation days.

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health

Breakthrough in Prostate Cancer Treatment: Improved Survival Rates for Intermediate-Risk Patients

In a significant advancement in the fight against prostate cancer, a recent study presented at the 2025 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium has revealed promising results for patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer. The research highlights the efficacy of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) with or without short-term neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (STAD) in improving long-term survival rates.

Improved Survival Outcomes

The study, which followed patients for a median of 12 years and up to 19.8 years, demonstrated that both treatment regimens – EBRT alone and EBRT combined with STAD – led to impressive survival statistics. The 15-year prostate cancer-specific survival (PCSS) rate was a remarkable 91% for both groups, with no significant difference between them (P = .67). Additionally, the 15-year overall survival (OS) rates were 53% for the STAD plus EBRT group and 51% for the EBRT alone group (P = .82).

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education

Catalan Language Under Scrutiny: PSC's Stance on School Language Policy

In a recent development that has sparked significant debate, the Socialist Party of Catalonia (PSC) has expressed its opposition to a proposal that would make Catalan the sole vehicular language in schools across Catalonia. This move has reignited the long-standing discussion on language policy in the region, particularly affecting the educational system and the linguistic rights of students.

Background and Context

The proposal to make Catalan the exclusive language of instruction in schools is part of a broader effort to strengthen the use and promotion of the Catalan language. This initiative is rooted in the historical and cultural significance of Catalan in Catalonia, a region with a distinct linguistic and cultural identity.

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sport

Controversy Erupts Over Refereeing Scandals in LaLiga: The Negreira Case and Its Implications

In the midst of an already tumultuous season for Spanish football, the Negreira case has cast a long shadow over the sport, particularly affecting FC Barcelona and the broader landscape of LaLiga.

The Negreira Case: A Deep-Rooted Scandal

At the heart of the controversy is José María Enríquez Negreira, a former vice president of the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). Negreira, who served in this role from 1994 to 2018, is accused of receiving substantial payments from FC Barcelona. Over an 18-year period, from 2000 to 2018, Barcelona allegedly paid Negreira's companies a total of €7.3 million.

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crime-law

Doubts Cast Over Phone Evidence in Liano Double Murder Case

In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the double murder in Liano, Cantabria, the University of Cantabria (UCO) has raised substantial doubts about the reliability of a key piece of evidence: a phone allegedly linked to the crime.

The Crime and Investigation

On an unspecified date in recent months, a double murder shook the small town of Liano, leaving the community in shock. The victims, whose names have not been disclosed, were found in a residence in the area. The investigation, led by local law enforcement, has been meticulous in gathering evidence to identify the perpetrator.

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housing

Expats in Santander Face Ongoing Challenges: Noise, Rats, and Housing Issues

In a recent gathering, the concerns of expats and local residents in Santander took center stage as the city grapples with persistent issues that are affecting the quality of life for many.

Meeting with Izquierda Unida and Neighborhood Associations

On February 14, 2025, a meeting was held between the councillor from Izquierda Unida (IU) and representatives from the Federation of Neighborhood Associations of Cantabria (FECAV) and other local associations. This ordinary meeting highlighted several key issues that have been plaguing the city.

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