Filip and Mathilde Visit Kris and Yves

9 February 2007

BRUSSELS — Prince Filip and Princess Mathilde visited the Rozemarijn institution for mentally handicapped adults in Keerbergen Thursday morning. Rozemarijn is also where Kris and Yves, the former reporters for the popular TV programme Man Bijt Hond (“Man Bites Dog”) live.

For many of the home’s inhabitants yesterday was one of the happiest days of their lives. ”This is more important than Santa Claus”, one of them said.

The rest were wondering what was the correct etiquette during the royal couple’s visit. “Can we give Mathilde a kiss?” someone asked.

Filip immediately recognized Rozemarijn’s celebrities. ”I have seen you on television. And where is your friend?” he asked Yves.

Kris, the second half of the television duo, gave the Prince a tour of the home’s speculaas (ginger cookies) bakery.

Koen Dries, Director of Rozemarijn, said he was satisfied with the visit. ”This visit is proof that we are doing the right thing. We treat our inhabitants like adults and that gives results”, he said.

Subject: Belgian news