Azucena Paredes Villar is a 30-year-old Spanish mother of three who was evicted from her family home and is now squatting illegally with her children and elderly grandmother in Madrid. She fears losing her children as she is unemployed, like over half of young Spaniards, due to the country's economic crisis. The article describes how families across Spain are struggling with high unemployment, debt, and evictions as the country's banks, which are stuffed with political cronies, have left ordinary Spanish people suffering immense challenges on a daily basis.
Irish Daily Mail - Spain´s Squeezed MiddleJoseph Haslam
Spain is facing a severe economic crisis, with over 24% unemployment and 300,000 people in Madrid facing eviction. The crisis is having devastating social impacts, with many resorting to raiding supermarket bins for food and suicide rates rising 20%. However, on the surface in cities like Madrid, life seems normal as tourists and residents fill restaurants and bars. There is a sense that Spain remains in denial about the depth of the crisis and its long term impacts, though protests and groups like PAH are working to help the increasing number of people facing hardship and homelessness.
The Singularity Moment - Something to believe inJoseph Haslam
Slides for my talk at IE Business School Venture Day in Lisbon on 25th June 2013. Mostly about how exponential technologies will change out lives in the coming years. Will be interesting to see the reaction that Slide 17 gets.
Catalonia; a Cluster, a Hub or a Node– Choices for CorkJoseph Haslam
"Catalonia; a Cluster, a Hub or a Node – Choices for Cork". A presentation I gave to the UCC Executive MBA class during their study tour to Barcelona in April 2014.
This document is a series of tweets by Joe Haslam, Chairman of Hot Hotels and Associate Professor at IE Business School, discussing various topics related to entrepreneurship and business. Some of the tweets summarize quotes and articles on startup growth, taxes in Spain, and laws around entrepreneurship. One tweet tells the backstory of Hot Hotels, a company founded in 2002 in Marrakech that raised over $70 million and had 200 employees before being sold.
Hot.es: Ya estamos en 54 países, ¿cómo lo hemos hecho?Joseph Haslam
El documento presenta una charla de Joe Haslam de Hot.es sobre cómo la compañía se ha expandido a 54 países. La charla incluye dos partes: la primera proporciona antecedentes sobre Hot.es, incluido que tiene más de 1 millón de descargas y está entre las 10 principales aplicaciones de viajes. La segunda parte cubre lecciones aprendidas, como mantener los costos bajos, invertir en tecnología como informes y comunicaciones, y contratar talento extranjero calificado ya en España. Haslam concluye instando a pensar como un
There has been a lot of talk about startups, maybe too much talk, This presentation is not about startups, this presentation is about scaleup and how we can have more of them in Ireland.
Irish Daily Mail - Spain´s Squeezed MiddleJoseph Haslam
Spain is facing a severe economic crisis, with over 24% unemployment and 300,000 people in Madrid facing eviction. The crisis is having devastating social impacts, with many resorting to raiding supermarket bins for food and suicide rates rising 20%. However, on the surface in cities like Madrid, life seems normal as tourists and residents fill restaurants and bars. There is a sense that Spain remains in denial about the depth of the crisis and its long term impacts, though protests and groups like PAH are working to help the increasing number of people facing hardship and homelessness.
The Singularity Moment - Something to believe inJoseph Haslam
Slides for my talk at IE Business School Venture Day in Lisbon on 25th June 2013. Mostly about how exponential technologies will change out lives in the coming years. Will be interesting to see the reaction that Slide 17 gets.
Catalonia; a Cluster, a Hub or a Node– Choices for CorkJoseph Haslam
"Catalonia; a Cluster, a Hub or a Node – Choices for Cork". A presentation I gave to the UCC Executive MBA class during their study tour to Barcelona in April 2014.
This document is a series of tweets by Joe Haslam, Chairman of Hot Hotels and Associate Professor at IE Business School, discussing various topics related to entrepreneurship and business. Some of the tweets summarize quotes and articles on startup growth, taxes in Spain, and laws around entrepreneurship. One tweet tells the backstory of Hot Hotels, a company founded in 2002 in Marrakech that raised over $70 million and had 200 employees before being sold.
Hot.es: Ya estamos en 54 países, ¿cómo lo hemos hecho?Joseph Haslam
El documento presenta una charla de Joe Haslam de Hot.es sobre cómo la compañía se ha expandido a 54 países. La charla incluye dos partes: la primera proporciona antecedentes sobre Hot.es, incluido que tiene más de 1 millón de descargas y está entre las 10 principales aplicaciones de viajes. La segunda parte cubre lecciones aprendidas, como mantener los costos bajos, invertir en tecnología como informes y comunicaciones, y contratar talento extranjero calificado ya en España. Haslam concluye instando a pensar como un
There has been a lot of talk about startups, maybe too much talk, This presentation is not about startups, this presentation is about scaleup and how we can have more of them in Ireland.
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by Portugal, Gibraltar, Andorra and France. Much of central Spain is covered by a plateau surrounded by mountain ranges, with some lowlands along the coasts. Spain has a socialist government that provides free universal healthcare and low-cost higher education.
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, bordered by Portugal, France, Andorra and Gibraltar. The country has a diverse geography ranging from coastal areas to mountainous inland regions. Spain has a socialist government that provides free universal healthcare and education, and the culture is very family-oriented with strong traditions around meals and spending time together.
Introduction to spanish cultures, history, traditionsNursing Student
Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula and is bordered by Portugal, France, and the Mediterranean Sea. Some of Spain's major holidays celebrate St. James, the Virgin Mary, Christmas, and Columbus Day. Bullfighting is a iconic part of Spanish culture along with the works of Miguel de Cervantes. Families traditionally eat large midday meals together and businesses close in the afternoon. Spanish communities have strong social controls and informal justice systems. The architecture and history of cities like Salamanca, Seville, Cordoba, and Granada are tourist attractions that showcase Moorish influences.
Automotive Technology Essay. Online assignment writing service.Alicia Brown
The document discusses steps to request writing assistance from HelpWriting.net, including creating an account, completing an order form with instructions and deadline, and reviewing writer bids before selecting one and providing a deposit to start the assignment. It notes the site uses a bidding system and guarantees original, high-quality work or a full refund, and that revisions can be requested to ensure satisfaction.
Ireland is facing an increase in racism as the country experiences significant immigration for the first time. Racism was previously less of an issue when Ireland was more homogeneous, but growing diversity has led to a rise in racist attitudes and incidents. The government has recognized racism as a problem and implemented anti-discrimination laws and education campaigns to promote tolerance. However, changing long-held attitudes deeply rooted in Ireland's history proves difficult. While progress has been made, activists acknowledge it will take time to fully overcome prejudice in Irish society.
This document appears to be a catalog for a company called "Rent a Fright S.L." that rents out monsters and creatures to frighten people. The catalog describes some of the monsters available, including Edward Cullen, Frankenstein, a family monster pack, kids monsters, Cruella Devil, and Halloween special offers that include additional time or a spell book. It also advertises party packs that include three monsters for events. Contact information is provided at the end.
This document provides information on several symbols of Portugal including the Legend of the Rooster of Barcelos, Valentine's handkerchiefs, and Portuguese swallows. The Legend of the Rooster of Barcelos tells the story of a pilgrim who was wrongly accused of a crime and sentenced to death, but was proven innocent when the roasted rooster crowed after the pilgrim was hanged. Valentine's handkerchiefs were embroidered by young women for their suitors with symbols of romance. Portuguese swallows, which were first made as ceramics in 1891, became a symbol of home and family in Portugal due to their migratory nature and tendency to return annually to the same nest.
Spain has a long history with influences from various cultures like the Iberians, Celts, and Moors. Traditional Spanish culture places importance on family, Catholicism, and regional identity. The cuisine relies on fresh ingredients like seafood, meat, herbs, and olive oil. While fast food has grown, traditional foods remain central to Spanish culture. Spain transitioned to a democratic constitutional monarchy in the late 20th century after periods of dictatorship.
The impact of the Europeans on the Tainos in JamaicaDeighton Gooden
This handout highlights ten ways that the Tainos' were brutalized by the Spaniards shortly after their arrival to Jamaica. The informtion is applicable to the other islands for their treatments meted out to the natives were throughout the Caribbean region was uniform.
Visa offers a range of credit, debit, and prepaid card options that allow travelers to avoid the hassle and risk of carrying large amounts of cash while traveling abroad. Visa cards can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs and make purchases anywhere that accepts Visa cards. They offer benefits like global acceptance at over 30 million merchants and 1 million ATMs worldwide, reimbursement if the card is lost or stolen, and 24/7 assistance. More travelers choose Visa because of its widespread acceptance and security features.
A new language school opened last Friday in Santa Pola, Spain. It is a modern building that will offer English, French, German, and Italian courses. Previously, residents had to travel to Alicante or Elche to study languages, but now they have an option in their own town. The school's headmistress said students are no longer prohibited from learning in Santa Pola.
Spain is a constitutional monarchy located in Western Europe. Madrid is the capital and Spanish is the official language. Some of Spain's most visited tourist attractions include the Alhambra palace complex in Granada, Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona, and Mezquita mosque in Cordoba. Spanish culture has a blend of regional folklore and is known for festivals, bullfighting, flamenco music and dance, and regional cuisines featuring ingredients like olive oil, wine, seafood, and paella.
Presentation from the Spanish Partners about “Mass Media and Immigration in S...OLEtark
The document summarizes a newspaper article about tensions between Spanish citizens and immigrant populations in the town of Salt, Spain. Unemployment had risen to 25% for immigrants and 13% for natives, fueling social tensions. Crime had also risen 23% and racist groups were exploiting the situation. The town was experiencing conflicts between those who wanted to impose stricter controls on immigrants and those calling for respect for all residents.
Spain is a constitutional monarchy located in Europe. Its capital and largest city is Madrid. Spain has a population of over 46 million people and its official language is Castilian Spanish. The country has a long history and culture with influences from its art, traditions like flamenco and bullfighting, beaches, and cuisine which incorporates techniques and ingredients from its former colonies.
Spain experienced widespread baby trafficking for over 40 years, facilitated by doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Thousands of babies were stolen from their parents and sold for adoption illegally. The practice first came to light about 10 years ago when the government began investigating a rise in reported adoption mistakes. Now, over 800 cases are being examined, and DNA evidence is helping identify victims and build criminal cases against those responsible. One victim, Estefania Anguita, was told her twin sister had died at birth, but later discovered there were no records of her or her sister's birth at the hospital.
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe. It has a diverse landscape ranging from mountains to coastlines. Madrid is the capital city. Spain has a long history including periods of Moorish and Catholic rule. Today, Spain has a parliamentary monarchy government and uses the euro currency. It has many natural resources and tourist attractions that draw visitors from around the world.
A brief description of the communities...Florie Salnot
The document provides an overview of the Roma and Traveller communities in the UK. It estimates the population to be between 120,000 to 300,000 individuals. It discusses that Travellers can be divided into ethnic groups like Romani Gypsies or Irish Travellers, or non-ethnic groups. It also outlines some of the key challenges faced by these communities, such as lack of adequate accommodation, discrimination in access to healthcare and education, and racial prejudice portrayed in some media headlines. However, it also notes that fears of new sites are often unfounded, and that these communities have traditions of self-employment and strong values around health and environment protection.
The document provides information about Hispanic/Latino culture. It notes that Hispanics/Latinos place strong importance on family as the most important social group. They value respect and dignity, especially toward parents and elders. Traditions include celebrating Quinceneras for 15-year old girls. Overall, the culture centers around spending time with and honoring family through traditions and values.
1. The document provides a plot summary of the novel Noli Me Tangere by Jose Rizal. It describes the main characters like Juan Crisostomo Ibarra and Maria Clara, and the conflict between Ibarra and the priest Padre Damaso.
2. It summarizes the key events in the novel, including Ibarra returning home to find his father falsely accused, designing a school to help the people, and Maria Clara discovering Padre Damaso is her real father.
3. The summary explains that Rizal used the novel to brilliantly describe Philippine society and the toxic effects of religious and colonial oppression.
Business Opportunities from Brexit A Spanish & Irish PerspectiveJoseph Haslam
This document summarizes a presentation by Joe Haslam on business opportunities from Brexit from an Irish and Spanish perspective. The presentation discusses Brexit and its potential impacts on Spain and Ireland, as well as things to worry about such as debt and whether the current system is rigged. Haslam advises preparing for both upside and downside risks from global political and economic instability while spending time with family.
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by Portugal, Gibraltar, Andorra and France. Much of central Spain is covered by a plateau surrounded by mountain ranges, with some lowlands along the coasts. Spain has a socialist government that provides free universal healthcare and low-cost higher education.
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, bordered by Portugal, France, Andorra and Gibraltar. The country has a diverse geography ranging from coastal areas to mountainous inland regions. Spain has a socialist government that provides free universal healthcare and education, and the culture is very family-oriented with strong traditions around meals and spending time together.
Introduction to spanish cultures, history, traditionsNursing Student
Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula and is bordered by Portugal, France, and the Mediterranean Sea. Some of Spain's major holidays celebrate St. James, the Virgin Mary, Christmas, and Columbus Day. Bullfighting is a iconic part of Spanish culture along with the works of Miguel de Cervantes. Families traditionally eat large midday meals together and businesses close in the afternoon. Spanish communities have strong social controls and informal justice systems. The architecture and history of cities like Salamanca, Seville, Cordoba, and Granada are tourist attractions that showcase Moorish influences.
Automotive Technology Essay. Online assignment writing service.Alicia Brown
The document discusses steps to request writing assistance from HelpWriting.net, including creating an account, completing an order form with instructions and deadline, and reviewing writer bids before selecting one and providing a deposit to start the assignment. It notes the site uses a bidding system and guarantees original, high-quality work or a full refund, and that revisions can be requested to ensure satisfaction.
Ireland is facing an increase in racism as the country experiences significant immigration for the first time. Racism was previously less of an issue when Ireland was more homogeneous, but growing diversity has led to a rise in racist attitudes and incidents. The government has recognized racism as a problem and implemented anti-discrimination laws and education campaigns to promote tolerance. However, changing long-held attitudes deeply rooted in Ireland's history proves difficult. While progress has been made, activists acknowledge it will take time to fully overcome prejudice in Irish society.
This document appears to be a catalog for a company called "Rent a Fright S.L." that rents out monsters and creatures to frighten people. The catalog describes some of the monsters available, including Edward Cullen, Frankenstein, a family monster pack, kids monsters, Cruella Devil, and Halloween special offers that include additional time or a spell book. It also advertises party packs that include three monsters for events. Contact information is provided at the end.
This document provides information on several symbols of Portugal including the Legend of the Rooster of Barcelos, Valentine's handkerchiefs, and Portuguese swallows. The Legend of the Rooster of Barcelos tells the story of a pilgrim who was wrongly accused of a crime and sentenced to death, but was proven innocent when the roasted rooster crowed after the pilgrim was hanged. Valentine's handkerchiefs were embroidered by young women for their suitors with symbols of romance. Portuguese swallows, which were first made as ceramics in 1891, became a symbol of home and family in Portugal due to their migratory nature and tendency to return annually to the same nest.
Spain has a long history with influences from various cultures like the Iberians, Celts, and Moors. Traditional Spanish culture places importance on family, Catholicism, and regional identity. The cuisine relies on fresh ingredients like seafood, meat, herbs, and olive oil. While fast food has grown, traditional foods remain central to Spanish culture. Spain transitioned to a democratic constitutional monarchy in the late 20th century after periods of dictatorship.
The impact of the Europeans on the Tainos in JamaicaDeighton Gooden
This handout highlights ten ways that the Tainos' were brutalized by the Spaniards shortly after their arrival to Jamaica. The informtion is applicable to the other islands for their treatments meted out to the natives were throughout the Caribbean region was uniform.
Visa offers a range of credit, debit, and prepaid card options that allow travelers to avoid the hassle and risk of carrying large amounts of cash while traveling abroad. Visa cards can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs and make purchases anywhere that accepts Visa cards. They offer benefits like global acceptance at over 30 million merchants and 1 million ATMs worldwide, reimbursement if the card is lost or stolen, and 24/7 assistance. More travelers choose Visa because of its widespread acceptance and security features.
A new language school opened last Friday in Santa Pola, Spain. It is a modern building that will offer English, French, German, and Italian courses. Previously, residents had to travel to Alicante or Elche to study languages, but now they have an option in their own town. The school's headmistress said students are no longer prohibited from learning in Santa Pola.
Spain is a constitutional monarchy located in Western Europe. Madrid is the capital and Spanish is the official language. Some of Spain's most visited tourist attractions include the Alhambra palace complex in Granada, Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona, and Mezquita mosque in Cordoba. Spanish culture has a blend of regional folklore and is known for festivals, bullfighting, flamenco music and dance, and regional cuisines featuring ingredients like olive oil, wine, seafood, and paella.
Presentation from the Spanish Partners about “Mass Media and Immigration in S...OLEtark
The document summarizes a newspaper article about tensions between Spanish citizens and immigrant populations in the town of Salt, Spain. Unemployment had risen to 25% for immigrants and 13% for natives, fueling social tensions. Crime had also risen 23% and racist groups were exploiting the situation. The town was experiencing conflicts between those who wanted to impose stricter controls on immigrants and those calling for respect for all residents.
Spain is a constitutional monarchy located in Europe. Its capital and largest city is Madrid. Spain has a population of over 46 million people and its official language is Castilian Spanish. The country has a long history and culture with influences from its art, traditions like flamenco and bullfighting, beaches, and cuisine which incorporates techniques and ingredients from its former colonies.
Spain experienced widespread baby trafficking for over 40 years, facilitated by doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Thousands of babies were stolen from their parents and sold for adoption illegally. The practice first came to light about 10 years ago when the government began investigating a rise in reported adoption mistakes. Now, over 800 cases are being examined, and DNA evidence is helping identify victims and build criminal cases against those responsible. One victim, Estefania Anguita, was told her twin sister had died at birth, but later discovered there were no records of her or her sister's birth at the hospital.
Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe. It has a diverse landscape ranging from mountains to coastlines. Madrid is the capital city. Spain has a long history including periods of Moorish and Catholic rule. Today, Spain has a parliamentary monarchy government and uses the euro currency. It has many natural resources and tourist attractions that draw visitors from around the world.
A brief description of the communities...Florie Salnot
The document provides an overview of the Roma and Traveller communities in the UK. It estimates the population to be between 120,000 to 300,000 individuals. It discusses that Travellers can be divided into ethnic groups like Romani Gypsies or Irish Travellers, or non-ethnic groups. It also outlines some of the key challenges faced by these communities, such as lack of adequate accommodation, discrimination in access to healthcare and education, and racial prejudice portrayed in some media headlines. However, it also notes that fears of new sites are often unfounded, and that these communities have traditions of self-employment and strong values around health and environment protection.
The document provides information about Hispanic/Latino culture. It notes that Hispanics/Latinos place strong importance on family as the most important social group. They value respect and dignity, especially toward parents and elders. Traditions include celebrating Quinceneras for 15-year old girls. Overall, the culture centers around spending time with and honoring family through traditions and values.
1. The document provides a plot summary of the novel Noli Me Tangere by Jose Rizal. It describes the main characters like Juan Crisostomo Ibarra and Maria Clara, and the conflict between Ibarra and the priest Padre Damaso.
2. It summarizes the key events in the novel, including Ibarra returning home to find his father falsely accused, designing a school to help the people, and Maria Clara discovering Padre Damaso is her real father.
3. The summary explains that Rizal used the novel to brilliantly describe Philippine society and the toxic effects of religious and colonial oppression.
Similar to Irish Daily Mail - A Family Forsaken (20)
Business Opportunities from Brexit A Spanish & Irish PerspectiveJoseph Haslam
This document summarizes a presentation by Joe Haslam on business opportunities from Brexit from an Irish and Spanish perspective. The presentation discusses Brexit and its potential impacts on Spain and Ireland, as well as things to worry about such as debt and whether the current system is rigged. Haslam advises preparing for both upside and downside risks from global political and economic instability while spending time with family.
What you do to get Product Market Fit, should be very different to what you do afterwards in order to scale. Startups are about putting out fires, scaleups are about lighting them.
How advances in Exponential Technology are enabling entrepreneurs to do in Healthcare what was once only possible by government and large corporations.
Entrepreneurship is the highest form of protestJoseph Haslam
The document is a speech given by Joe Haslam on entrepreneurship. It discusses how entrepreneurship allows one to pay bills through starting a business with hotels in many cities around the world. It also addresses how entrepreneurship can help solve humanity's grand challenges and provide meaning. Further, entrepreneurship is described as the highest form of protest against the status quo. The speech concludes by challenging the political class's theory in Spain and encouraging trying and failing better through entrepreneurship.
Hot Hotels was founded in January 2012 by two Irish and two Spanish entrepreneurs to create a smartphone app that allows same-day hotel bookings at discounted prices in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and Asia. The app launched in March 2012 and has gained popularity in Spain and Greece, with the company funding itself through customer payments rather than venture capital as the four founders believe Spain's large tourism industry positions them to compete globally in this sector from their offices in Madrid and Malaga.
Es Irlanda como España Lecciones de una bancarrotaJoseph Haslam
Los irlandeses Evan, Joe y Louise describen cómo Irlanda se ha hundido en la bancarrota debido a la especulación inmobiliaria y los créditos excesivos, lo que ha llevado al país a necesitar un rescate de la UE. Ven similitudes preocupantes entre la situación de Irlanda y España, incluyendo la concesión excesiva de créditos y la falta de liderazgo político. No obstante, creen que España puede evitar la bancarrota gracias a la estabilidad de sus bancos y su mayor experiencia e histor
Understanding Entrepreneurship - “A Start-up is Not Just a Small Company”Joseph Haslam
This document discusses entrepreneurship and startups. It defines a startup as a company designed for fast growth, and notes they are where new jobs and prosperity originate. Successful entrepreneurship values diversity, curiosity, sustainability, and meritocracy. The document questions whether these startup values are compatible with family businesses. It provides quotes emphasizing the importance of unreasonable or unconventional thinking for progress, and of persevering through failures to succeed. Contact information is given for the author, Joe Haslam.
Understanding Entrepreneurship - “A Start-up is Not Just a Small Company”
Irish Daily Mail - A Family Forsaken
1. A FAMILY
Page 24 Irish Daily Mail, Monday, July 9, 2012
FAMILIES raiding rubbish bins for
food; an entire generation trapped
by insurmountable debt; mass
unemployment. In an illuminating
dispatch on Saturday, Brian Carroll
described the alarming challenges
ordinary Spanish people face daily.
FORSAKEN
Today, he reveals how families
have been betrayed by irresponsi-
ble bankers, persistent corruption
and a government too long in
denial...
by Brian
Carroll
In Madrid
I
T’S approaching midnight on
Azucena is a married mother of
Friday in Plaza Mayor, a 400-
year-old cobblestoned square
in central Madrid. The Madrid
Orchestra is playing for free on
the site where they used to
three forced to live in a squat
burn heretics at the height of the
Spanish Inquisition.
Tourists and Spaniards — distinguishable
by the presence of grandparents and toddlers
at their tables — sit outside the restaurants
after being evicted from the
that line the square, beneath elegant apart-
ments painted clay-red, and framed by
wrought-iron balconies.
As Beethoven’s 7th Symphony lingers on
the balmy air, they drink wine and pick from
plates of suckling pig, octopus and the
family home. She fears losing
Galician green pepper dish of Pimientos de
Padrón. Even here, surrounded by such
history, a three-course meal and wine costs
less than €€25.
My Spanish waiter, who speaks English,
Dutch, German, and Italian fluently, having
her children. It’s a harrowing
worked across Europe in a 40-year career,
Like half of those
under 25 in Spain,
she is unemployed parable of the financial crisis
shrugs when I point to the orchestra and ask
him what the special occasion is. ‘This is
Madrid,’ he says simply.
Spain, with its sun-soaked cultural cocktail in Spain – a country where
banks are stuffed with cronies
of cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia
and Seville, and its coastal resorts from the
Costa Bravo to the Costa del Sol, will
always attract tourists — they spent almost
€€50billion here last year. But, like a bon viveur
whose good days have eventually caught
and corruption is endemic
up with her, beneath the surface, Spain is
riddled with the economic contagion spread-
ing across the eurozone and the world.
Earlier on Friday, I’d travelled to northern
Madrid to meet Azucena Paredes Villar, a
blonde 30-year-old Spanish mother of three.
She buzzed me through the electronic gates
of her apartment building — a
nondescript red-brick high-rise over-
looking dry wasteland in Roquetas mother’s €€600 a month pension, and promised €€100billion in bailout of the neighbourhood association same — bankers were giving credit to
de Mar, a working class suburb at whatever help her mother, who lives funds from the European Stability where MP lived, said he had sought everyone without any controls.
the Pinar De Chamartin end of the on €€500 a month, can give her. She Mechanism — have shown no mercy. shelter for his family from the local ‘They created a bubble and now
blue Metro line. doesn’t speak English and pleads There are evictions scheduled in housing council, but had been turned everyone is suffering in Greece, in
I could hear her two-year-old son through an interpreter for us not to barrios across Madrid today and down twice on the day he took his Ireland and here.’
crying as I walked up the cracked photograph her children: ‘The chil- throughout the week. On average, own life. And just like hundreds of thousands
marble steps to her second floor dren could end up in a foster home across Spain, there are 159 evictions Groups like the Plataforma de of Irish people, the Spanish were
squat. Beyond the damaged front and my grandmother in a residence.’ every day, and four out of every five Afectados por la Hipoteca (PAH) induced to buy their own homes, with
door, inside the cramped two-bed When a squatter is evicted, and involve families with children. orchestrate campaigns against the 100 per cent mortgages.
apartment, I meet her sick son, and children are involved, the Directorate Suicides have increased by 20 per banks, and try to physically stop Banks often loaned up to ten times
his two older sisters, aged three General Of Care For Children And cent since 2008, and prescriptions for evictions. However, the courts, imple- the applicant’s salary. Home owner-
and five. There is a large hole in the Adolescents (DGAIA) will automati- medication to treat depression have menting a range of public order laws ship levels in Spain are among the
living room door and a sense of cally convene a meeting with the par- increased by 35 per cent. A resident introduced by the new government, highest in the EU.
desperation everywhere. ent or parents to discuss custody of of Hospitalet de Llobregat, in are able to pass injunctions stopping The giant mortgage lender Bankia,
Azucena’s 88-year-old grandmother, the children, if those evicted have no PAH from interfering with evictions. which is responsible for 80 per cent of
Tomasa Morcillo, is asleep in another suitable alternative accommodation. As in Ireland, the people feel a huge the evictions in Madrid, has asked for
‘My children
room. Azucena, her children, and her Azucena tried to shield her children sense of injustice, that the banks are €€23.4billion in bailout funds — but it
grandmother are all squatters here in from the eviction but her eldest being bailed out, while all the arms is believed to have losses of more
this bank-repossessed apartment. daughter witnessed the reality of of the State — the government, the than €€100billion on its books.
They were evicted from the family
home — an apartment in a nearby
building — on November 18 last year,
Spain’s economic collapse at first
hand. ‘The eldest came home from
school and found all her little things
could end up in legislature, the judiciary, and the
police — are used to throw people
out of their homes.
The Spanish equivalent of Anglo
Irish Bank, Bankia’s story is a para-
ble of the greed, political corruption
after they fell behind on the €€800
monthly payments. Azucena now
sleeps with her three children in one
on the street and she got scared,’
Azucena said. ‘We told her the old
house broke and that’s why we’re in
a foster home’ Olmo Gálvez, a 31-year-old IT
entrepreneur who spent three years
working in China before returning to
and lack of regulation which has now
forced Ireland, Portugal, Greece,
Iceland, Cyprus and Spain to seek
room, with her grandmother in the the new one.’ Madrid in 2010, tells me: ‘The EU is bailouts. Spain was promised €€100bn
other. Her partner has since moved There are 300,000 others in Madrid Madrid, hung himself in a park near giving money to the banks but the for its banks on June 29, but already
back in with his parents, like 50 per who are threatened with eviction his home, after his two years on banks must pay interest to the ECB. the markets have issued their judg-
cent of Spanish 30-year-olds. after falling behind on mortgage the dole ran out and he received an ‘Someone has to pay for it, but ment — the crucial ten-year bond
Azucena is unemployed, like one in payments or rents. When the police eviction notice. many of the banks are broke. Spain yield in Spain, the amount the
two people aged under 25 in Spain. came to evict Azucena and her family, Identified only as MP, he was a will not carry the debt, so someone government in Madrid pays to bor-
She used to survive on €€390 a month protesters fought with them on the 45-year-old electrician, married with else will have to pay it. We are not row, soared back above seven per
from welfare, but in Spain the dole is street outside, and neighbours helped one daughter, and, like 1.5million going to repay a debt that has been cent on Friday. Spain’s conservative
cut off after two years. kick in the door of the nearby apart- others in Spain, had lost his job due artificially created by bankers, politi- government — run by the Popular
She now gets by on emergency ment she now illegally occupies. The to the collapse of the construction cians and investors. In Ireland, Party — has been telling its people
funding from charities, her grand- Spanish banks — who have been industry. Juan Alvarez, the chairman Greece and Iceland it happened the that the State hasn’t been rescued,
2. Irish Daily Mail, Monday, July 9, 2012 Page 41
Vibrant: Madrid’s Plaza Mayor remains a hub of activity
this year alone. Income taxes have Guardamar are in Russian — because
increased while, as in Ireland, various they are now the only ones investing
indirect levies are further squeezing in property. Meanwhile, the Chinese
middle incomes. are taking over vacant commercial
With plans to cut tax reliefs on indi- units with giant low-cost hyper-
vidual property investments and to markets that are driving Spanish
increase VAT to 18 per cent across a providers out of business.
range of services — including restau- In the Costa Blanca area there is so
rants and bars which currently pay a much hot money circulating, locals
maximum of 8 per cent — Spain used to call €€500 notes Bin Ladens
hopes to squeeze another €€8billion — because the authorities would nev-
out of taxpayers in 2013. er find them. The ECB has allegedly
These are harsh measures, but Spain tracked more €€500 notes in circula-
has to cough up €€27.5billion in matur- tion in Costa Blanca than any other
ing debt by the end of October and it part of the EU. Although Osama bin
has only weeks to agree terms for the Laden is now dead, the black market
first €€40billion of that immense is thriving across Spain, which has
€€100billion bailout. Indeed, Reuters one of the highest rates of non-tax
has quoted government sources paying workers in the EU, according
saying that unless Spain gets this to the European Centre For Econom-
€€40billion by the end of July, national- ic And Social Rights.
ised lenders Bankia, CatalunyaCaixa, Spain’s Gestha Union of Tax
NovaGalicia and Banco de Valencia Inspectors (GESTHA) estimates the
will collapse. The money will not come annual tax loss is equivalent to
without conditions, however, and the €€88billion a year. It’s not surprising,
price for an EU-backed bailout will be against such a backdrop of political
long overdue reform of Spain’s politi- and banking corruption, close to
cal and banking sectors — politicians €€100billion was taken out of Spain
and political appointees still control- last year alone.
led 80 per cent of Spain’s financial In shades of Fianna Fáil’s nefarious
institutions in 2010. past, party apparatchiks presided
Party hacks and even politicial over dubious planning decisions
wives and girlfriends were appointed across Spain. Luis Rivera Gurrea-
to the boards of banks throughout Nozaleda works with start-up
Spain. The CAM bank in Valencia, companies in the internet and
mobile industry in Madrid. He says
some work has been done to reform
the system, but the last bastions of
One bank had a power are the politicians themselves
and the estimated 250,000 who earn
ballet dancer
State payments through public serv-
ice jobs. ‘Very little has been done
around the 150,000 politicians in
on its committee Spain and the 250,000 non-political
politicians — those people who are
union representatives or who have
public function type jobs and get a
which received a €€6billion bailout government subsidy. That is what we
from Spanish taxpayers had a ballet have to start cleaning up. No-one
dancer on its ‘control committee’. has started addressing that.’
And Bankia, then headed by Joe Haslam is professor at the
Rodrigo Rato, a close political ally of School of Entrepreneurship at the IE
Rajoy, falsified its accounts, ahead of Business School in Madrid. From
a share offering. It claimed it had Ireland, he believes reforms will work,
made a €€309million profit, when in but only if the older order moves aside
fact another set of accounts showed to let the generation born after 1975
the true picture: losses of €€3billion. — the year Franco died and democ-
Struggle: Azucena Following a court ruling last week, racy returned to Spain — flourish.
Paredes Villar Rato will now face criminal charges. ‘Spain has a far better than chance
squats illegally Meanwhile, Aurelio Izquierdo, one of a return to growth than Greece,
of Bankia’s leading executives con- Italy or Portugal. The pre-democracy
with her children tinues to draw a €€14million pension. generation has done a good job
and grandmother The stories of corruption are legion. in bringing stability after 40 years
In the Costa Blanca area —best largely cut off from the world, but
known to Irish holiday-makers for re- now they need to hand over to the
sorts like Alicante — mayors of towns new generation, those born after
took suitcases of cash to approve 1975, who are more outward looking
dodgy planning developments. On and allow them to bloom.’
Saturday, I took the three-and-a-half From 1936 to 1938, the people of
just its banks. But less than ten protested with a nationwide Spanish government insisted until hour train journey from Madrid to Madrid led a bizarre double life, as
days after a €€100billion bank bail- strike. In Valencia 98 per cent 2010 that there was no economic cri- Alicante, where in the nearby town of they fought Franco’s advance with
out, it now seems certain Spain — the of pharmacists went on strike in June sis in Spain before it was ousted from Orihuela, the mayor, Monica Lorente, the catchphrase ‘No pasaran’ (They
EU’s fifth largest economy — will power by Mariano Rajoy’s Popular and five members of the Popular shall not pass), and went about their
need more money, just to run the Party in November. However much Party, have been indicted on corrup- daily lives while bombers strafed
country and keep paying benefits to
its 4.6million unemployed.
Despite already having the highest
Spain spends Rajoy insists on spinning that every-
thing is alright with the Spanish cof-
fers, the days of Spanish procrastina-
tion charges. In a case that’s seen as
typical of endemic local political
corruption in Spain: the mayor and
Madrid and artillery fire turned the
Gran Via, Madrid’s main thorough-
fare, into ‘Howitzer Alley’.
unemployment rate in the EU, a
bailout for Spain’s banks will mean €64billion more tion, and Mañana politics are over.
Spain, with a 46million population,
her party colleagues are accused of
rigging public service contracts, to
grant lucrative rubbish collection
For two years, they refused to
accept the reality that they were
surrounded on all sides, before finally
than it takes in
more austerity for Azucena and her spends €€64billion a year more than it
compatriots — who have already seen takes in — compared to Ireland’s licences to friends of the Popular negotiating a surrender in 1939.
€€10billion of cuts in education and €€9.4billion deficit. Party, which currently runs Spain. There is a growing feeling in
health, as well as increased VAT Spain’s middle class has already In an area where most earn less Europe, particularly in Germany, that
charges, and a series of indirect been squeezed by direct tax increas- than €€15,000 a year, there are no long- Spain needs to end the political cha-
taxation hikes. The bite of austerity because the government couldn’t pay es aimed at raising more than er any cranes on the skyline of Costa rade that everything is OK, and admit
is becoming more severe across them the €€480million it owes for dis- €€6illion and spending cuts designed Blanca. The advertising hoardings that along with its banks, the State
society. Teachers have already pensing medicines. The previous to deliver over €€9billion in savings that dot the roads from Alicante to and its people are also in trouble.