Dutch news in brief – 26 May 2004

Dutch downturn ‘worst’ in EU

The economic downturn in the Netherlands, like the boom that proceeded it, has been “more marked” than in most other European countries. This was partly due to greater exposure to international trade, especially with the US, and to great sensitivity to international stock price movements, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said Wednesday in a major report on the Netherlands. The OECD warned against some shortcomings in relation to policies on pension fund regulation and housing. “(But) with some of these factors now starting to unwind, the Dutch economy should benefit from the recovery in the world economy,” the OECD said.

Deventer battles arson attacks

Police in Deventer said on Wednesday that they are increasing their vigilance to try and stamp out a recent spate of more than 100 arson attacks on containers and buildings in the town. The latest fire broke out in an office block on the Rigastraat on Tuesday night, news agency ANP reported. The police announced that the investigation team has been expanded and 14 detectives are working on the case. It is not clear if one person is behind all the attacks or if several arsonists are involved.

European ferries are safe

Safety on board ferries in Europe got the thumbs up from the Dutch motoring organisation ANWB and its sister organisations around Europe on Wednesday. The study carried out by the organisations concluded tourists could have peace of mind when boarding ferries in Europe. The report covers ferries in the North Sea, Baltic Sea, Irish Sea and the English Channel. Stena Hollandia, which operates from Hoek van Holland, also received a good score for safety, RTL Nieuws said.

School worker suspended over sex allegation

An employee at an unnamed secondary school in Almere has been suspended following sex abuse allegations. Police are currently investigating the claims and during the investigation it was decided to suspend the employee. The school has sent a letter to parents to explain what is happening, news agency Novum reported.

Girl missing since April

Patricia Andrea, 12, from Amsterdam has been missing since 13 April, the police revealed on Wednesday. The girl is a juvenile asylum seeker who was living with a foster family. She was last seen leaving the foster family’s home in Amsterdam south-east to go to school in mid-April. The police have appealed for witnesses who could provide clues to her whereabouts, news agency ANP said.

Subject: Dutch news