Expatica news

Dutch news in brief – 10 February

Air Holland granted stay on debt repayments

Haarlem Court has granted Dutch airline Air Holland a temporary moratorium on its debt repayments. But it is not yet clear what the ruling means for Air Holland’s flights to the Netherlands Antilles. Company chief P. Ingwersen said the airline — which narrowly staved of bankruptcy in 2002 — will continue to fight for its survival. Air Holland is owned by Erik de Vlieger, who also owns English-language newspaper The Amsterdam Times.

Bombed Jewish bus to go on display

The bombed wreck of a bus — the target of a Palestinian suicide terrorist attack — will be flown from Israel and placed on exhibit in front of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on 23 February. The date coincides when the ICC will handle legal proceedings regarding the security wall presently being built by Israel. The idea of transporting the bus to the Netherlands is the brainchild of Zaka, an orthodox-religious group which assists the victims of terrorist attacks. The “exhibition” is backed by the Israeli Foreign Ministry and has received the go-ahead from the municipal council of The Hague.

Pupils start Cito exams

About 167,000 primary school pupils started their Cito matriculation exams on Monday. The results of the tests give an indication of what type of secondary education the youngsters should follow. About 85 percent of pupils will participate in the exams, about the same as last year. Dutch secondary schools are divided into vocational schools and institutes designed to lead students towards tertiary education.

Dutch back Prince Bernhard’s letter of denial

A Maurice de Hond survey has revealed that 75 percent of the Dutch population have reacted positively to Prince Bernhard’s letter and believe he should be allowed to defend himself against a series of publicised allegations. In an open letter sent to newspaper De Volkskrant, the 92-year-old Prince denied out-of-wedlock children, allegations of wartime betrayal and rumours about his mother’s alleged licentious life. About 50 percent of respondents do not know whether to believe the Prince or his accusers.

[Copyright Expatica News 2004]

Subject: Dutch news