Dutch news in brief – 4 March

Claus secretly visited Castro

Prince Claus made a secret visit to Cuban leader Fidel Castro in 1998, four years before his death October 2002, author Frans Bieckman has claimed. Bieckman was allowed access to the prince’s confidential travel reports. Queen Beatrix’s husband, Claus, and their son Friso visited President Castro and allegedly spoke about the situation in Cuba and the sex scandal involving the then US President Bill Clinton.

Half-million uninsured against dental problems

About 500,000 Dutch residents, mainly low-income earners, are no longer insured for dentistry treatment because they cannot afford to pay the premiums. Instead, they are opting to have their problem teeth removed because it’s cheaper than have them repaired, the Council of Health Insurers (CVZ) said.

Mother accused of assaulting teacher

A pupil’s mother allegedly assaulted a female primary school teacher at Barchem on Wednesday. The incident occurred in class in front of children. The teacher was beaten and kicked, but police have refused to immediately arrest the suspect due to a “family situation”. Inquiries continue.

Eight rowers collide with cargo ship

Eight rowers from the Leiden rowing association had a lucky escape on Wednesday night when their canoe collided with a cargo ship. All eight were thrown into the water, but made it safely to shore. One rower was admitted for observation to the Rijnland Ziekenhuis. The coach who was riding a bike along the shore only saw the ship when it sounded a warning.
 
[Copyright Expatica News 2004]

Subject: Dutch news