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News

News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain.

employment

Strike at Altadis Factory in Cantabria Enters Second Day with Strong Worker Support

Background and Context

In the picturesque region of Cantabria, Spain, a significant labor dispute has unfolded at the Altadis tobacco factory, a major employer in the area. The strike, which began on January 8, 2025, has garnered substantial support from the factory's workforce.

High Level of Worker Participation

As the strike enters its second day, it is clear that the majority of the plant's employees are firmly behind the action. Nearly 90% of the factory's staff have participated in the strike, indicating a strong consensus among workers regarding the grievances that led to this industrial action.

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weather

Strong Winds Cause Disruptions in Cantabria, Spain

Incidents and Emergency Calls on the Rise

A powerful wind storm swept through the region of Cantabria, Spain, on January 8, 2025, leaving a trail of disruptions and prompting a significant number of emergency calls. The harsh weather conditions, characterized by strong gusts and heavy rain, affected various parts of the region, causing 12 incidents and prompting 31 emergency calls.

Impact on Infrastructure and Daily Life

The strong winds led to several incidents, including fallen trees, damaged roofs, and disrupted power lines. In some areas, the winds were so fierce that they knocked over street signs and billboards, posing a hazard to both pedestrians and motorists. The emergency services were quick to respond, with teams working tirelessly to clear debris and restore order.

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technology

The Dawn of Digital SIM Cards: What Expats in Spain Need to Know

As the world embraces more advanced and secure communication technologies, the traditional SIM card is on the cusp of a significant transformation. For expats in Spain, understanding this shift is crucial to staying connected seamlessly.

The Rise of eSIM Technology

The traditional physical SIM card, a staple in mobile phones for decades, is gradually giving way to its digital counterpart, the eSIM (embedded SIM). This change is driven by the need for enhanced security, convenience, and flexibility in mobile communication.

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environment

The Rising Threat of the Asian Hornet in Spain: How to Combat Vespa velutina

As the new year begins, residents and expats in Spain are facing a growing concern that has been escalating over the past few years: the invasion of the Asian Hornet, also known as Vespa velutina. This invasive species, first introduced to Europe in 2004, has been spreading rapidly and posing significant threats to local ecosystems, human health, and agriculture.

The Impact on Ecosystems and Human Health

The Asian Hornet is notorious for its aggressive behavior and potent venom. Its presence has severe negative impacts on ecosystems, particularly on bee populations, which are crucial for pollination. The hornets are known to attack and decimate bee colonies, leading to a decline in honey production and overall biodiversity[2][4].

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sport

Young Talent on the Rise: Jorge Salinas Called Up to Spain's U-18 National Team

In a significant milestone for Spanish football, Jorge Salinas, a promising young player from Real Racing Club de Santander, has been called up to Spain's U-18 national team. This selection is a testament to Salinas's hard work and talent, and it marks an exciting new chapter in his burgeoning career.

The Call to Represent Spain

Salinas received the call to join the U-18 squad ahead of an important match against Italy. This international fixture is set to take place in the coming weeks, providing Salinas with a golden opportunity to showcase his skills on the global stage. The call-up is a recognition of his impressive performances at the club level, where he has been making waves with his versatility and skill.

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sport

Barcelona Secures Injunction for Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor to Play

In a significant development for FC Barcelona, the Spanish Superior Sports Council (CSD) has granted an injunction allowing the club's new signings, Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor, to participate in matches despite earlier registration issues.

Background of the Conflict

The controversy began in the summer of 2024 when Barcelona attempted to register Dani Olmo, a key signing for the club, by utilizing the injury of defender Andreas Christensen as a justification. However, the club failed to submit the necessary financial guarantees on time to comply with LaLiga's stringent 1:1 rule. This rule mandates that for every player registered, another must be deregistered or sold to maintain financial balance.

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