News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

politics

Political Turmoil in Cantabria: Motion of No Confidence Against Mayor Oscar López

In a dramatic turn of events, the political landscape of Cantabria is set to be shaken as a motion of no confidence against the Mayor of Torrelavega, Oscar López, is scheduled to be debated this Thursday. The motion, tabled by the Regionalist Party of Cantabria (PRC) and supported by the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), aims to oust López from his position.

Background and Context

Oscar López, a member of the People's Party (PP), has been at the helm of Torrelavega's municipal government since 2019. His tenure has been marked by various controversies and disagreements with opposition parties, particularly the PRC and PSOE. The current motion is the culmination of long-standing tensions and disagreements over municipal policies and governance.

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defense

Soldier Injured in Army Helicopter Accident in La Rioja, Spain

In a dramatic and alarming incident, a Spanish soldier was seriously injured in an accident involving an army helicopter in the region of La Rioja, Spain, on February 20, 2025.

Incident Details

The accident occurred during a routine training exercise in the vicinity of La Rioja, a region known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The helicopter, which was part of the Spanish Army's fleet, experienced technical difficulties or an unspecified malfunction, leading to the accident.

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housing

Spanish Government Moves to Boost Affordable Housing with New Financial Incentives

In a significant step to address the pressing issue of affordable housing, the Spanish government, in collaboration with the Instituto de Crédito Oficial (ICO), has organized a series of informative workshops. These workshops are designed to educate stakeholders about the new lines of financing aimed at promoting social housing for rent.

Initiative Details

The initiative, which gained momentum following the recent approval by the Congreso de los Diputados to reform the Régimen Económico Fiscal (REF) of the Canary Islands, is part of a broader strategy to incentivize the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing. This reform, proposed by Coalición Canaria (CC) and PSOE, and supported by the Partido Popular (PP), Sumar, and PNV, aims to utilize the Reserva para Inversiones en Canarias (RIC) for the development of residential housing exclusively for rental purposes, excluding any tourist or speculative use[1].

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government

Tenerife Municipal Council Streamlines Administrative Processes with New Contract

In a significant move to enhance the efficiency of its administrative operations, the Municipal Council of Tenerife has initiated a tender process for a contract aimed at implementing a system to expedite the management of administrative files.

The Need for Efficiency

The current administrative processes have been criticized for their sluggish pace and bureaucratic hurdles, which often delay critical decision-making and service delivery. Recognizing the need for modernization, the council has taken a proactive step to adopt a more streamlined and technologically advanced system.

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education

The Crucial Early Years: Why the Preschool Phase is Vital in a Child's Educational Journey

For expats in Spain, understanding the significance of the early years in a child's education can be pivotal in ensuring their little ones get the best possible start in life. The preschool phase, often overlooked as merely a preparatory step, is in fact a critical period that lays the foundation for future academic success and personal development.

The Importance of Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education, particularly the preschool years, is a time of rapid growth and development. Children between the ages of 3 and 5 are in a phase of immense learning, where they absorb and process new information at an incredible rate. This period is not just about play; it is a structured and intentional learning environment designed to foster social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

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crime-law

Tragic Death of Former Gandia Mayor Arturo Torró Shocks Valencia

In a shocking and tragic incident, Arturo Torró, the former mayor of Gandia and a prominent businessman, was found dead with a gunshot wound on the morning of Thursday, February 20, 2025. The body of the 62-year-old was discovered in his vehicle on the A-38 highway, near the municipality of Xeresa in the Valencia region.

Circumstances of the Death

According to reports, Torró's vehicle experienced a tire failure, prompting him to exit the car. It was at this moment that he received a fatal gunshot, reportedly to the chest, although some accounts suggest the shot may have been to the head[2][4].

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