Police welcome the partial fireworks ban and are considering an alternative along with industry associations and municipalities. Experts think it is a necessary step, but see it as just a start in the context of safety and health. The fireworks industry is disappointed and finds the ban ineffective in reducing illegal fireworks and riots.
Emergency services are on high alert after a dike collapse at the Valkenburgse Meer near Leiden, potentially impacting the nearby train line and causing delays for the historic steam train. The cause of the collapse, which occurred during the construction of a new residential area, is still under investigation.
30-year-old Ukrainian suspect in Amsterdam stabbing case charged with attempted murder or manslaughter with a terrorist motive, remains in custody for at least two more weeks.
Minister Faber refused to apologize for her refusal to award five COA volunteers, causing an uproar in the House of Representatives where coalition partners also questioned the unity of cabinet policy.
Coalition party members have a few more weeks to discuss the Spring Memorandum, deciding how much to spend on items such as defense, but they have yet to come to an agreement on the overall budget and how it will be allocated. While some propose investing in infrastructure and using budget projections to fund expenses, Minister of Finance Eelco Heinen remains adamant that spending any extra money will result in a greater deficit and national debt.
Cabinet works on new law for Defense to get exceptions to environmental rules so that armed forces can grow and better prepare for defense of the Netherlands and NATO allies. Despite possible impacts on local residents, State Secretary Tuinman stresses the importance of protecting our country and is committing hundreds of millions for Defense growth.