Czech news in brief for October 7: Monday's top headlines

In the second quarter of this year, apartment prices in the Czech Republic increased by 2.4 percent, reaching an average of CZK 101,700 per square meter. This marks the third consecutive quarter of rising prices and the first time the average price has exceeded CZK 100,000 per square meter. Prices rose the most in Pilsen and Pardubice, while decreasing in the Karlovy Vary region.

The Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has partnered with Ukrainian arms manufacturer Ukrainska Bronetechnika to produce 155-mm caliber artillery ammunition in Ukraine. CSG will provide know-how and support for production, which is set to begin in 2025. The two companies signed a larger package of contracts at the second International Defense Industries Forum in Kyiv on Oct. 2. The exact location of production will remain undisclosed for security reasons. Since February 2022, CSG has sent about 150 to 160 pieces of military equipment to Ukraine.

Forests across Czechia suffered CZK 3.2 billion in damages due to September's floods. Repairing the damage will take at least two years, with a budget of CZK 130 million for recovery this year. Authorities say that the floods damaged 400,000 cubic meters of wood. The restoration of the damaged forest infrastructure will take at least the next two years. The Morava River Basin was amost the worst-affected areas.

A report from the Supreme Audit Office revealed that Czechia lacks sufficient mental health centers, medical specialists, and sustainable funding for social care. Out of the planned 100 centers, only 29 were operational by the end of 2023, despite receiving European subsidies. The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs failed to fulfill government tasks and take necessary steps for a stable network of centers. These shortcomings threaten existing centers and hinder the establishment of new ones.

Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is set to visit Prague later this month in a sensitive diplomatic move amid ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, reports Reuters. The trip, which follows her recent presidency, is expected to raise concerns in Beijing, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province. Tsai’s visit could bolster Taiwan’s international relationships, particularly with European countries like the Czech Republic.

A strike by judicial staff, including bailiffs, secretaries, and court reporters, has disrupted operations at Czech courts from Monday until Wednesday. The strike, driven by calls for higher wages, will affect court proceedings, with delays expected across the country. Workers demand better pay and working conditions, highlighting significant disparities in salary compared to other government employees.

Prague’s Motol Hospital has warned about a TikTok trend where children swallow magnets while imitating tongue piercings. Several children required hospitalization after magnets caused serious internal injuries, potentially requiring surgery. The hospital urged parents to monitor their children’s social media use closely to prevent further cases​.

The construction of Prague’s new Metro D line reached a significant milestone with the breakthrough of a tunnel connecting the C and D lines. This project, crucial to expanding the city’s transportation infrastructure, aims to reduce congestion and improve connectivity. Completion is expected in 2029, marking a significant step toward modernizing public transit.​ In January 2025, the Pankrác C station will be closed for one year build a transfer corridor between the lines.

The 28th annual Library Week in the Czech Republic kicks off today, offering tours, discussions, and activities to engage readers. Libraries nationwide will host events to promote reading and literacy, including author talks and workshops. This year’s edition highlights the role of libraries in the community, inviting both regular visitors and newcomers to explore their local branches.