Czech news in brief for May 14: Tuesday's top headlines

A survey by the Europe in Data project, the Institute of Sociology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, and Česká spořitelna revealed that one-third of Czechs have low financial literacy. More than half rate their skills as average, and another fifth as above average. Women, people with lower education, and those who are financially disadvantaged are more prone to financial mistakes due to their lower financial literacy. The survey also found that Czechs struggle with understanding investments, with more than half unable to answer basic questions about risk and diversification.

The Colours of Ostrava festival will feature a special dating section for single visitors this year. According to festival dramaturg Filip Košťálek, a survey revealed that 37 percent of attendees were single, and some even hoped to find a partner at the festival. The dating event will take place once a day, with a joint party each evening for successful matches. The festival will also include over 100 concerts and theater performances, taking place July 17 to July 20 this year.

Czechia abstained from all 10 votes on the recently approved migration package at the EU talks in Brussels, officials confirmed today. The Czech government has held the same position since February, stating that the final version of the pact is worse for the country compared to its involvement during its EU presidency in 2022. Hungary and Poland voted against all parts, and Slovakia and Austria did not support some provisions. The European Parliament, the Spanish EU presidency, and the European Commission agreed on the final form of the pact in December.

Police in Prague are investigating an incident that occurred on April 14 at around 2 p.m. near Jan Palach Square, where a rioter wrestled with a victim over an Israeli flag. The suspect, wearing yellow shoes and a black t-shirt, broke the flag and fled the scene. Anyone with information on the suspect's identity or whereabouts is urged to contact 158. If caught and convicted, the suspect could face up to two years in prison.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Czech PM Petr Fiala in Rome to discuss migration, the EU's future, and bilateral relations. Fiala emphasized shared views on EU direction, advocating for stronger ties with non-EU nations. Meloni highlighted friendship, economic ties, and mutual agreement on EU competitiveness and defense, stressing the need to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities. The meeting builds on previous discussions and growing economic partnerships.

In Prague, Switzerland triumphed over Czechia 2-1 in a penalty shootout at the Ice Hockey World Championship, leading Group A. The game ended 1-1 in regulation, with M. Stransky scoring for Czechia and Fiala for Switzerland. Kurashev sealed Switzerland’s victory. Both teams displayed strong performances, with referees from Latvia, Germany, Slovakia, and Sweden officiating. Switzerland’s lineup featured Genoni, Josi, Hischier, and Fiala, while Czechia fielded Dostal, Gudas, O. Kase, and M. Stransky.

The Regional Court in Ústí nad Labem is set to commence trial on Thursday for the largest forest fire in Czech history, originating in Czech Switzerland National Park in 2022. A former volunteer ranger faces up to 15 years in prison on charges of general endangerment and property damage. The indictment alleges he intentionally ignited the blaze, spanning 1,100 hectares and causing extensive destruction and evacuations. The defendant denies involvement. Over 6,000 firefighters battled the inferno, with dozens injured and significant property damage.

Police apprehended two women suspected of operating a puppy mill in a north Moravian village. A 67-year-old woman ran the mill while her 85-year-old associate brokered sales in Prague, earning one million crowns. Nearly 100 dogs, including Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, poodles, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, were rescued from dire conditions. Nonprofit workers and the state veterinary administration will care for the animals. The women could face up to six years in prison for animal maltreatment.

Prague Castle's historic Singing Fountain, undergoing restoration since autumn 2022, is set to resume operation, the Prague Castle Administration has announced. Crafted in the mid-16th century by Francesco Terzio of Bergamo and Tomáš Jaroš of Brno, the fountain features intricate bronze sculptures emitting melodious sounds as water cascades over metal plates. Restoration efforts include nozzle repairs, limescale removal, and surface preservation, ensuring the fountain's Renaissance charm is maintained.