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Summary for: Czech news in brief for April 25: Saturday's top afternoon headlines
Unions want lower retirement age, shorter week
Unions want lower retirement age, shorter workweek
Czech trade unions will push to lower the retirement age back to 65, shorten the workweek to 37.5 hours without cutting pay, and guarantee five weeks of annual leave for all workers, union leader Josef Středula said after the ČMKOS congress. The union confederation also plans to oppose proposed labor law changes affecting platform workers, warning they could weaken employee protections and legalize disguised self-employment.
Turek apologizes after controversial remarks
MP Filip Turek has apologized to ministry officials offended by his recent remarks describing “parasites” he wanted to “exterminate.” Speaking on TV Nova, Turek said he was referring to activists, not civil servants, and claimed his comments had been misinterpreted. The remarks drew criticism from Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, Finance Minister Alena Schillerová and trade unions, which demanded an apology.
Pilsen honors WWII victims, US pilots
Commemorations took place in the Krimice district of Pilsen today to honor victims of the First and Second World Wars and American airmen killed nearby in 1945 during bombing raids on the Škoda factory. Dozens attended ceremonies at local memorials marking the deaths of 38 residents and 10 US pilots whose aircraft were shot down during the final days of WWII. The events precede Pilsen’s annual Liberation Festival.
Hazardous chemicals found in Prague 4 home
Firefighters responded to a hazardous materials discovery in a residential building in Prague 4 on Saturday after arsenic, mercury and radioactive thorium were found inside a home. A bomb disposal expert was also called due to picric acid, a substance once used in explosives. Officials said the quantities were small and posed no danger to residents. The chemicals will be removed and safely disposed of.
Young man dies after fall from Braník Rocks
A young man died on Saturday morning after falling from the Braník Rocks in Prague. Emergency services attempted resuscitation at the scene, but were unable to save him. Police said they have ruled out foul play and are investigating the circumstances of the incident. The fall occurred shortly before 10:30 a.m. Rescue services confirmed the man died at the scene despite prolonged efforts to revive him.
Poll results: Rising jet fuel prices linked to tensions in the Middle East are expected to push up flight costs across Europe, including from Prague. We asked readers whether this will affect their summer travel plans. Almost half, 46 percent, said they may travel less or choose cheaper destinations, while 32 percent said rising prices won’t change their plans. Twenty-two percent said they will still travel but be more price-conscious.
