News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

employment

Year-Long Wait for Collective Agreement for Tacoronte Municipal Workers

In the picturesque municipality of Tacoronte on the island of Tenerife, a significant labor dispute has been unfolding, affecting the lives of many municipal workers. For over a year, these workers have been awaiting the negotiation and implementation of a new collective agreement, a situation that has sparked both frustration and concern among the local community.

Background and Impact

The collective agreement, which governs the working conditions, salaries, and benefits of municipal workers, has been in a state of limbo since early 2024. This prolonged delay has resulted in uncertainty and dissatisfaction among the workforce, many of whom are essential to the daily functioning of the municipality. From maintenance and public services to administrative roles, these workers are the backbone of Tacoronte's local government.

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emergency-response

Active Forest Fire in Villacarriedo, Cantabria: Concerns Rise Among Local Residents and Expats

Incident Overview

A significant forest fire has been raging in the municipality of Villacarriedo, located in the Valles Pasiegos region of Cantabria, Spain. The fire, which was reported on February 17, 2025, has prompted immediate action from local authorities and emergency services.

Response and Efforts

Emergency responders, including firefighters and aerial support, were swiftly deployed to the scene to combat the blaze. The fire has been classified as a Level 2 incident, indicating a moderate to high level of danger and requiring substantial resources to control.

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infrastructure

Cantabria Municipality Embarks on Significant Infrastructure and Flood Prevention Projects

In a concerted effort to enhance regional resilience and infrastructure, the municipality of Cantabria has initiated several critical projects, particularly in response to recent flash floods that have affected the region.

NextGen Funding for Flood Prevention

The Ministry of Industry and Tourism has allocated €7 million in NextGen funding specifically for tourism projects in regions impacted by the flash floods. This financial support will be directed towards various initiatives, including climate change adaptation projects, the implementation of early warning systems, the adaptation of watercourses, and the execution of flood prevention measures. These actions are part of a broader strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of tourist destinations, especially in the Autonomous Community of Valencia, which has also been a focus area for these adaptations[1].

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education

Educational Sector in the Balearic Islands: Ongoing Debates and Unresolved Issues

In the Balearic Islands, the educational sector is grappling with several contentious issues that have sparked intense debates and criticisms, particularly from the teachers' union, UOB Ensenyament. Here are some of the key points that have been at the forefront of these discussions.

Reservation of Places in Vocational Training

During the ordinary session of the Mesa Sectorial d’Educació (Educational Sectorial Table) held on January 22, 2025, UOB Ensenyament raised significant concerns about the proposed regulation for admission and enrollment in vocational training programs. One of the main points of contention was the reservation of 50% of the places in each group for students from the same educational center. UOB Ensenyament argued for the suppression of this rule, citing that it restricts the free choice of studies and could be discriminatory, as it may prioritize continuity at the same center over genuine interest in the studies offered[1].

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health

Fertility Concerns and Cancer Treatment: A Growing Concern for Women in Spain

For many women, particularly those in their reproductive years, a diagnosis of cancer can be doubly devastating due to the potential impact on their fertility. This concern is increasingly being recognized as a critical aspect of cancer care, especially in countries like Spain where advanced medical treatments are available but often come with significant reproductive side effects.

The Psychological Burden

The psychological impact of cancer on fertility cannot be overstated. Women facing cancer treatment often experience significant stress and anxiety about their future reproductive capabilities. This anxiety is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding the effects of treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy on their fertility. Studies have shown that among cancer survivors, concerns about fertility outcomes considerably impact their psychological status and overall quality of life after treatment[1].

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health

Health Counselor Cesar Pascual Addresses Prosecution's Investigation into Waiting Lists in Cantabria

In a recent development that has sparked significant attention in the region of Cantabria, Spain, the Health Counselor, Cesar Pascual, has been at the center of a controversy surrounding the management of hospital waiting lists. Here is a detailed look at the unfolding situation.

Background and Investigation

The investigation began after allegations surfaced suggesting that the waiting lists for medical procedures in Cantabrian hospitals might have been manipulated or falsified. The prosecution in Cantabria has taken up the case, prompting a thorough examination of the practices within the regional health system.

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