Belgian news in brief, 28 July 2005

Belgian rail gets costlier

Belgian rail NMBS-SNCB will have to find an extra EUR 300 million next year, when Infrabel, the company that operates the Belgian rail infrastructure, will charge its clients EUR 500 million for use of rail infrastructure. This is a rise of EUR 300 million compared with 2004. The European Commission ordered the imposition of higher charges. The railway company now has two options: hiking up ticket prices or requesting extra government funding.

Housing price rises ‘cooling off’

For the first time in years, a ‘cooling off’ period appears to have settled over the Belgian housing market. In the first six months of this year, house prices rose by ‘just’ 4 percent, half of the rate 12 months ago. Real estate experts said the great interest in apartments and leveling out of interest rate declines have led to the reduce rate of price rises.

Investigation into university lecturer

The Ghent University has launched disciplinary proceedings against one its lecturers. Students complained about the postgraduate course ‘Master in Knowledge and Information Management’, describing it as “pure air”. Students claim half of the lectures were not given and the other lessons were of an exceptionally low level. The rector has asked a commission to investigate the matter and will decide whether to dismiss the case or take action against the lecturer.

Coldplay set for Antwerp concert

Popular British band Coldplay will perform at the Antwerp Sportpaleis on 26 October. Tickets will go on sale on 6 August and are available at Goformusic on 0900 2 60 60 or www.goformusic.be. Former The Verve lead singer Richard Ashcroft will also perform at the concert.

Subject: Belgian news