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7 amazing buildings coming to Amsterdam in the near future

Samantha Dixon 🇦🇺
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7 amazing buildings coming to Amsterdam in the near future

With so many people attracted to this wonderful city, Amsterdam is constantly under pressure to expand. For this reason, we can look forward to seven amazing new buildings joining our skyline.

There are massive numbers of people in the city, with 71-million people passing through Schiphol in 2018. With eye-catching hotel buildings, eco-friendly rooftop bars and an increase in the number of residential buildings, these are industrious times for Amsterdam.

(While coronavirus has put a temporary dampener on that, we have no doubts it’s only a matter of time before the masses return!)

Soon Amsterdam will have a veritable buffet of contemporary buildings and eye-candy to add to its skyline. Let’s take a look!

2Amsterdam

sustainability, BREEAM, 2Amsterdam, Buildings, Construction
Photo:©Provast

Amsterdam’s Twin Towers: these two former office blocks are the very definition of same-same, but different. The almost identical tops and the matching glass facades link the buildings together, despite the two towers having different purposes.

The revitalized buildings of 2Amsterdam will boast a semi-public garden, public lobbies, flexible workspaces, premium-quality office space, top restaurants and a four-star hotel with a sky bar. Fancy!

Projected Opening: Q2, 2021

HAUT On The Amstel

sustainability, architecture, buildings, Amsterdam, apartments, Amazing, Future
HAUT shows that sustainability can also be beautiful and comfortable. Photo: Zwartlicht

Reach for the skies is the motto of HAUT. This unique-looking building will soon become the highest wooden residential tower in the Netherlands, standing at 73 metres tall.

This tower is even more jaw-dropping when you find out how exclusive it is. Forget about shoebox apartments: at HAUT each level only has a maximum of three homes, ranging from 100 to 225 square metres.

Of course, one of the things that is turning us absolutely green with envy is the location: Haut is perched on the Marina, overlooking water views that stretch three ways.

Projected Opening: Mid-2021

De Drie Koningen (The Three Kings)

Drie-koningen-buildings-amsterdam
One, two, and three examples of why architecture doesn’t need to be completely new. Image: ©Elephant/Supplied

Three big silos went to the market — and then became completely transformed. De Drie Koningen is an ambitious redevelopment of a former sewage treatment plant into a unique, public space.

The new version will include a children’s play area, wellness, event space and one-room hotel, food lab, brewpub, catering, office spaces and three public roof terraces.

Not enough in love with this development yet? We’ll make it even better — the three silos are named after the three kings: Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. How cool is that?!

Projected Opening: Late 2020

Suitsupply in Kop Zuidas

 Dressing well is a stepping stone to new heights — at least, that’s what we think was going through the heads of Danish architectural firm BIG | Bjarke Ingels Group when they designed men’s clothing retailer Suitsupply’s newest head office.

This building made our list because of the totally unique design. Staggered roofs form a staircase down the side of the building, with each “step” a stunning green roof terrace. The building is 58 metres high, and has 16,000 square metres of office space, and room for catering, a photo studio, a flagship store, and parking.

You may not be able to venture to one of these beautiful roof terraces, but if you really want to bask in the beauty you’ll be able to head to the front green area, which is entirely publically accessible.

Projected Opening: Late 2020

IJbaan Cable Cars

The future is bright for an industrious Amsterdam Image: Image: Plompmozes/UNstudio

A cable car stretching across the IJ river could soon be a possibility. While people living on the opposite side of the river currently rely on an overworked ferry system, the IJbaan would ease this congestion.

The plan is for a 1,500 metre long cable car to stretch the distance. Three slender towers will be built by the IJbaan Foundation — a grassroots initiative led by Bas Dekker and Willem Wessels, designed by UNstudio.

Even better, the journey will be quick, and won’t forget those stunning views! The ride will take a maximum of 37 passengers on 4.6 minutes to make the trip, running at 21.6 kilometres an hour. We think this one is sure to be a favourite for the tourists in Amsterdam.

Projected Opening: 2025

Booking.com HQ

Amazing new buildings in Amsterdam, Booking.com HQ Photo: ©UNStudio

If you haven’t heard of Booking.com, you may have been living under a rock. The travel website is in the process of making a jaw-dropping home base.

Some spaces will be partially open and available to the public (take advantage of them!), for example, the rooftop terrace will be a cool spot for meetings or hang-outs in summer.

Fun fact: the amount of steel that will be used for the construction of the campus is equivalent to half of the Eiffel Tower!

Projected Opening: 2021

Oosterdokseiland

innovation, buildings in Amsterdam, Amazing Buildings, Cool Buildings, Industry, Construction, ODE, Osterdokseisland, Amsterdam
Photo: ©UNStudio

Alright, so maybe it’s not a building, maybe it’s many buildings. There’s not a lot of empty land left in Amsterdam, but Oosterdokseiland is making the most of it — across 225,000 square metres!

This collection of buildings is a hub that will effortlessly blend corporate and social functions. In addition to the Booking.com headquarters above, Oosterdokseiland will play host to TomTom, Vodafone, restaurants, terraces, and a 4-star Hilton Hotel. Oh, and did we mention the super-leuk apartments?

P.S. Oosterdokseiland even has a live stream of the construction taking place (if you’re into that).

 

What do you think of all the buildings soon to be in Amsterdam? Are you a fan of new buildings or old buildings? Leave a comment below!

Thieves are dressing up as delivery men in the Netherlands: here’s what to watch out for

Brin Andrews
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Thieves are dressing up as delivery men in the Netherlands: here’s what to watch out for

Several attacks and robberies under the guise of parcel delivery service have taken place this year in the Netherlands. Postal companies offer advice on how to protect yourself.

The number of parcels being delivered these days is tremendous, particularly with the holidays fast approaching. For criminals, this window of opportunity is easily being exploited, according to RTL Nieuws.

Fred van Leer, a TV stylist, was attacked last week in this very manner, by two men who said they had a package for him.

A similar incident occurred in February when a 61-year-old woman was brutally assaulted at her home in Ridderkerk, deceived by a person claiming to be with PostNL.

Again in April in Rijswijk, a resident was detained and robbed by a man posing as a DHL delivery person and his accomplices.

“A uniform is not enough”

Crime journalist Mick van Wely says, “You can hardly arm yourself against this kind of robbery.” He says that the criminals plan the robbery and “it never happens haphazardly.”

Van Wely is cautious when opening the door for deliveries at his own home. He says you can ask the delivery person to leave the package at the door because “When you open the door, you are already too late.”

“A uniform is not enough. Ask for an order form, identification, ask at home if something has been ordered. If you know all that you can open the door,” says Van Wely.

Postal companies advise

PostNL recommends using track and trace. “We indicate when we will deliver a parcel to you. That is is the best way to know that you are dealing with a parcel deliverer,” a spokesperson for the company tells RTL.

“In addition, it is good to know that we will never ask consumers to make a payment at the door,” the PostNL spokesperson adds.

A DHL spokesperson emphasises to be alert and pay attention to who is at the door, particularly if it isn’t your neighbourhood’s regular delivery person, adding the advice: “As a consumer, you can always ask for an ID, every DHL deliverer has it with them.”

Do you take precautions when opening the door for deliveries? Tell us in the comments below!

Feature image: Terbipics/Pixabay

Illegal brothel: two Utrecht men stand trial, accused of trafficking underage boys

Emily Burger
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Illegal brothel: two Utrecht men stand trial, accused of trafficking underage boys

Two men in Utrecht are on trial for human trafficking, exploitation and the abuse of young men, including seven underaged boys. They are suspected of running an illegal brothel from their flat in Overvecht, reports NOS.

Investigations began in 2017 and 2018 when police were tipped off about what seemed to be illegal prostitution taking place at the apartments of Nicolaus L. (60) and Romeo A. (65), just a few miles apart from one another.

When police searched the flats, the suspicions were confirmed. Computers containing large files on hundreds of boys, including photos, information of their age, weight and private details, were discovered in the apartments.

Recruiting the minors

The boys and young men, who often had mental disabilities or came from broken families, were contacted by Romeo A. and Nico L. via WhatsApp or Bullchat. The two men would then have sex with the boys as trial dates. If the trial date was successful, then A. and L. would then arrange customers, payment, and website prostitution profiles for the boys on Boys4U.

Men between 45 and 75 years old would usually pay 150 for a date of two hours, 20% of which went to A. and L., reports RTV Utrecht. They also made videos of the boys.

“Trust in intercourse between adults”

Eleven of the young men have filed a report, seven of which were minors, and their statements will be used by the Public Prosecution Service in the lawsuit. However, the two men have denied recruiting boys for prostitution or exploitation.

According to Nico L. there were indeed men having dates at the apartment regularly, but he was not aware that any of them were underage. But L. did admit to having sex with some of the young men as trial dates.

Romeo A. claims that he was trying to help the young men, whom he says he did not know where minors. Riks Ozinga, who follows the case for RTV Utrecht, Tweeted that Romeo A. had said it was all about “trust in intercourse between adults” and that safety, health and taking precautions were paramount. Romeo A. says he wanted to guide the young men to becoming escorts in a safe manner, which is what they wanted.

Court rule in January

The trial will take place over the next three days, during which a psychological examination of Romeo A. will be revealed, compensations for the young men will be discussed, and the suspects will have their last chance to make a statement. However, with the holidays coming up, the court will only make a final ruling on January 14.

Follow Dutchreview on Facebook for more news.

Image: DutchReview/Canva

Government to consider bringing in a corona app with a “test passport”

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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Government to consider bringing in a corona app with a “test passport”

The Ministry of Health is considering bringing in a new corona app that will help people to book a coronavirus test. The app would then act as a “test passport” for anyone who needs to prove that they have tested negative. 

When asked whether the app would also be used to certify that a person has been vaccinated, the Ministry for Health has not confirmed, telling the NOS, “your questions are premature, all options are still open.”

Commercial testing

At the moment, anyone who requires proof of a negative coronavirus test — for instance, when travelling abroad — is asked to go to a commercial tester.

However, as testing capacity is expected to hugely increase within the coming months, this app may allow users to both book a test and receive a digital certificate stating whether they are negative.

In this way, it would act as a “test passport” for anyone who needs to travel and prove that they have recently tested negative.

The third of its kind

This would be the third coronavirus app to come to the Netherlands. At the moment, the public is making use of the CoronaMelder app, which notifies users when they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus.

A second app is also expected to arrive within the next few months. The app will help the GGD with contact tracing; those who test positive will be able to enter in their recent contacts.

Not officially announced but help is wanted

While the app has not been officially announced yet, the government has confirmed to the NOS that it is being considered.

An appeal has also been launched by the government, asking that companies lend their staff to the app-developing project. They ask that companies loan their employees to the project free of charge for approximately two months.

This way, the app may become more readily available as no tendering procedure (the process through which work is contracted) is needed.

Would you make use of this app? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

Feature Image: StockSnap/Pixabay

OPINION: I grew up in the rape capital of the world. Here’s why the Leiden rape sentence wasn’t enough

Kathryn van den Berg
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OPINION: I grew up in the rape capital of the world. Here’s why the Leiden rape sentence wasn’t enough

Having spent all 23 years of my life in South Africa — often dubbed the world’s rape capital — reading that the Leiden man who raped and assaulted students was slapped with only a four-year sentence is devastating.

As a woman in South Africa, being catcalled relentlessly and being approached continuously by men lurking in shadows made hyperawareness not only a necessity, but a habit.

I remember walking to the gym with my sister and trying to conceal pepper spray under my sleeve in case of an attack. Horror stories from friends, peers, and on the news made me feel like none of the preventative measures I was taking were strong enough.

Living in fear

In a survey conducted by the South African Medical Research Council, approximately one in four men who participated admitted to committing rape. The World Population Review published rape statistics by country in 2020, and (no surprise here), South Africa has the recorded highest rate of rape in the world, with 132.4 incidents per 100,000 people. And these are just the incidents that were reported.

These numbers are not an accurate reflection of the severity of the rape crisis in my home country. Ineffective government schemes, overt racial tension, and heightened reality of gender-based violence are just some of the reasons why growing up in South Africa was so hostile. Looking over my shoulder while walking to class at university, or changing plans to arrive safely, were daily occurrences.

These are just some of the attitudes South African women have adopted to try to maintain a semblance of safety: my pepper spray and taser gun, hyper-anxiety and general mistrust of any man on the street are the realities of all South African women. We are bound together by the real threat of becoming another report to add to our country’s high statistic ranking.

The Netherlands fallacy

The constant threat of rape and sexual assault is, naturally, the main reason for me having immigrated to the Netherlands. I thought I’d left the news headlines of the mishandling of rape behind me, but I was clearly wrong.

The fear that women in Leiden experience, and will continue to experience, because of this man is an all too familiar feeling. That I — a native of the world’s rape capital — can relate to this climate of insecurity in Leiden is shocking.

A flag reading “Stop Violence Against Women” flies at Leiden University. Image: Sarah O’Leary

Not only is the sentence of just four years unjust, but how is punishment for rape quantifiable to begin with? How many years will it take the three young women in Leiden, who were subjected to such an act against their will, to recover from this?

Soft punishment

I am not a naïve idealist: I know that crimes of sexual assault and gender-based violence occur in even the safest and most egalitarian societies. I am scathing, though, in my criticism of this conviction.

While a part of me thinks “at least he got caught and is going to jail,” this optimistic view shatters against the handling of this story. That the rapist will be “subject to some restrictions” upon being released from prison is a slap in the face for the victims. By allowing the criminal to remain unnamed, this crime becomes an anonymous one.

Where I’m from, victim-blaming, a corrupt system and the sheer number of reports make South Africa a rapists’ paradise. That the “plus side” of this Leiden sentence is that this individual was simply sentenced is horrific.

Is the bar of justice set that low in this, seemingly progressive, country?

What do you think of the sentence? Tell us your opinion in the comments below. 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of DutchReview.

Feature Image: Eric Ward/Unsplash

A 2020 Thanksgiving in the Netherlands

Brin Andrews
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0
A 2020 Thanksgiving in the Netherlands

Many Americans residing in the Netherlands will be spending this Thanksgiving away from home and family, and that can be tough. But in the spirit of giving thanks, let’s focus on the positives.

Dutch people do celebrate Thanksgiving, in their own way. It’s actually not so different than in the US — an excuse to get together with family and friends for a big meal. But if you’re an American, you can still celebrate like a true Yankee (a derivative of the Dutch Jan Kees, of course). Here are a few ideas for spending this Thanksgiving in the Netherlands:

Go on a scavenger hunt for all the American staples

Turkey, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie — preparing these classic Thanksgiving dishes is absolutely possible, although it will require some extra shopping around. 

A few supplies surprisingly easily found in most grocery stores are stuffing mix, green bean casserole ingredients, and cranberries (although the sauce you’ll have to make yourself).

On the other hand, some basic items like corn syrup (pecan pie) and cocoa powder (countless desserts) can be challenging, though some international stores do stock them. You may find that with certain ingredients like these it’s easiest (and less costly) to turn to an online search or simply change your recipe.

But don’t give up on the elusive canned pumpkin — it may not be commonly stocked on the shelves of many supermarkets, but international stores do tend to carry it around this time of year.

If it’s a turkey you’re after, many butchers are hip with the holiday and stock up on birds. A few great options around Amsterdam are: 

There are many more so check with the butcher nearest you. Turkeys can cost a pretty penny, but if you’re one of the many committed to this tradition, you’ll want to get in quickly as they do tend to sell out. People often preorder way in advance.

For tofurky lovers, get ready for a fun DIY project because the odds of finding that in any freezer around here are slim to none. (But if you do, please let us know).

Have a sleepover at Kimpton de Wit in Amsterdam

If you’re not all about home-cooking, 2020 isn’t really your year. However, there is one excellent option that still allows you to eat outdoors and have a little holiday at the same time. 

At Kimpton de Witt and Celia Amsterdam (the restaurant of the hotel), you can celebrate Thanksgiving in the form of a staycation — great for anyone who wants to get out and still be able to usher in the festive season (in Amsterdam, but hey, trying our best here this year).

At this lovely hotel, you’ll experience what they call a “Californian escape” and spend a night in a beautiful room with your sweetheart, or perhaps your best friend. There’s a wine station that opens at 5:00 PM (till 8) and the evening offers a delicious feast from the new restaurant, Celia, located in the hotel. 

Thanksgiving-turkey
Just a little turkey teaser for what’s in store. Image: Kimpton de Wit

Dinner will be an assortment of both small and large plates for sharing. Your culinary adventure begins with roasted ushi pumpkin and red pepper soup and smoked duck breast with black truffle. As the main course, you’ll be served the classic roasted turkey with thyme and mustard. And to answer your question, yes, there will be pumpkin pie!

Availability: from 26 to 28 November 2020 (so more than 1 night available, but make haste);

Price: € 219 for an overnight stay + Thanksgiving dinner for two people, including parking (so you can travel covid-safe) and breakfast.

Reservations can be made via this page or by calling 020 620 0500.

Participate in Giving Tuesday

Keep up the spirit of generosity by participating in Giving Tuesday. It’s described as as a global generosity movement, and it’s all about inspiring others to do good. 

On December 1, after Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you can turn the focus on others by making a contribution to an organisation that’s working for a good cause. The are many Dutch organisations participating in the movement, so you can make contributions that have a direct impact on your own community. 

You can also donate to many organisations working on international development and aid projects. The givingtuesday.nl website makes it easy to look through all the incredible campaigns and find individuals and organisations doing work that matches your own altruistic objectives. 

Monetary donations are always welcome, but for those strapped for cash, there are other ways to participate. Donations of things like coats, blankets, your time, and skills can also make a big difference. So can sharing your story on social media with a #unselfie or #givingtuesday.

Learn about the Dutch-American Thanksgiving connection

The Netherlands does have an actual historical link to the American holiday, believe it or not. A not-so-widely known fact is that the English pilgrims who travelled to the United States on the Mayflower had a nice long stopover in Leiden before making their journey to America. 

The pilgrims had fled religious persecution in England and settled in Leiden, which was the second-biggest city in the Netherlands at the time. They took up jobs in the booming textile industry and spent about 12 years attempting to assimilate while still maintaining their religious beliefs. That proved increasingly difficult so eventually the youngest and fittest set sail for the New World. These pilgrims were, of course, responsible for the first Thanksgiving.

For your holiday reading pleasure, take a look at either of these delightful historical articles on the topic: 

The pilgrims in Leiden: Where were the pilgrims before they sailed to America?

Leiden was key to the origins of Thanksgiving

So while you won’t find a lineup of events or parades, or be able to turkey-hop among large family gatherings, a 2020 Thanksgiving can still be a celebration — a very small, sterile, socially-distanced celebration. And since it looks like other upcoming holidays will have a similar vibe this year, check out our tips for finding some cheer through the end of the year.

Do you have plans to celebrate Thanksgiving? Any other suggestions you can offer for a socially-distanced holiday? Tell us in the comments below!

Feature Image: Karolina Grabowska/Pexels 

Why are tampons and pads not free in Netherlands?

Chuka Nwanazia
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7
Why are tampons and pads not free in Netherlands?

Scotland has become the first country in the world to make pads and tampons free for girls and women, after parliament unanimously passed the legislation on Tuesday. 

Pads and tampons have already been free for Scottish students since 2018 and they will now be available for free in public places such as sports clubs, universities, etc. It’s a huge win for all Scottish women.

But it also makes you wonder: why is this not the case in the Netherlands? Why are toilet paper, hand soap, and paper towels always available for free in public restrooms — but menstrual products are not?

The Netherlands isn’t immune to period poverty

Research by De Bovengrondse has shown that 10 percent of young women in the Netherlands sometimes cannot afford sanitary pads or tampons. In fact, one in 10 Dutch girls may not go to school because they have their period and have no money for tampons.

A pack of sanitary pads at the supermarket or pharmacy costs €1.09. Some may say that is not that expensive. But for many low-income families, particularly those with daughters, that price can be a huge barrier.

READ MORE | Women’s healthcare in the Netherlands: the complete guide

A study from Plan International has shown that almost 10 percent of Dutch girls and women between the ages of 12 and 25 only sometimes have enough money for sanitary pads or tampons.

Nowhere to turn

In the Netherlands, many people with a low income can go to the food bank to get something to eat. But when it comes to menstruation, period poverty is a cause for (extra) stress, especially for lower-income and homeless women, or women who are in prison.

It is an extra expense that people usually don’t think about and can lead to unsanitary and unhealthy conditions with the problems that come with them if we ignore it as a society.

Efforts to make pads and tampons free in the Netherlands

The Dutch House of Representatives has discussed making sanitary products for women free — to no avail.

According to Het Dames Verband, a period fundraising campaign from De Bovengrondse, the government believes it has enough measures in place to reduce poverty.

However, change may be possible on a municipal level. Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Gouda are all investigating how they can relieve period poverty for their residents.

Het Dames Verband is continuing on a quest for more research, and initiatives to make menstrual products free of charge (or reimbursed) in schools, shelters, and other public places.

READ MORE | Universal Basic Income in the Netherlands: would it work?

Without sanitary products

Around the world, there are currently about 800 million girls and women having their periods. While all of those women need tampons, sanitary pads, or other forms of sanitary products, many don’t have access. Some women resort to using rags, whatever they have nearby, or nothing at all.

As we know, menstruation is natural, biological, and often unavoidable. In many cultures, even here in the Netherlands, menstruation is still very much a taboo, and people who are less fortunate are often ashamed of their financial situation.

Due to the taboo surrounding menstruation and the shame of a low income, period poverty and shame are things that girls often have to deal with.

Eliminating period poverty

The truth is this: women should not be dependent on their income when it comes to hygiene during periods. Menstruation is just as much a part of going to the toilet as having a bowel movement. It is natural and making women spend money for it is both unfair and feels like punishment for something they have no hand in.

Sanitary pads, tampons or other hygienic means for menstruation should be free and available wherever toilet paper is available.

Kudos to the Scots on the initiative. Now, we are waiting for the Netherlands to follow in their footsteps.

Eliminating period poverty in the Netherlands can be achieved. We need to stop talking about it and just do it. Access to free menstrual products is a right. Period!

Do you think pads, tampons, and other menstruation products should be free in the Netherlands? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

Feature Image: Viktoria Slowikowska/Pexels

Traditional New Year’s Eve beach bonfires cancelled due to coronavirus

Samantha Dixon 🇦🇺
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0
Traditional New Year’s Eve beach bonfires cancelled due to coronavirus

The Dutch tradition of huge bonfires on beaches in The Hague will not go ahead. Is it because of that time the bonfires turned into fire tornados? Nope — as always, the cancellations are due to coronavirus. 

The bonfires on the beaches of Scheveningen and Duindorp are a New Year’s tradition. However, the mayor of The Hague, Jan van Zanen, announced yesterday that he had no other choice but to cancel this year’s event.

Organisers have also scrapped bonfires in the Escamp and Laak districts.

Too popular to risk

Van Zanen had previously felt hopeful that declining coronavirus numbers would let him give the bonfire builders a green light.

However, with the decline stagnating and a strong likelihood that the partial lockdown will continue through mid-January, this year’s bonfires will not be lit.

“Suppose we would have had a relaxation at the last minute, then I did not think it was justified to allow it, because too many people would come to it,” explained Van Zanen to the NOS.

Kevin Batenburg, of the organizing foundation in Scheveningen, thinks it is a wise decision.

“If it could have gone through, we would have obtained a permit for a small audience. That would have been unenforceable for us with the alcohol that also plays a role in such a night,” he told the NOS.

No more fire tornados

The coronavirus crisis may be responsible for cancelling the 2020 event. However, the traditional bonfires would have looked different from the previous events anyway.

That’s because, in 2018, the bonfires went terribly wrong. Windy weather conditions blew ashes and embers from the 48 metre-tall bonfires onto the watching crowd.

Pure chaos reigned, the crowd was evacuated, and nearby bikes and cars were getting a little crispy.

READ MORE | The Big Bonfire Firestorm: so what really happened at Scheveningen on NYE?

The Dutch Safety Board wrote a report on the drama the following year. The report recommended that the municipality distance itself from the event, permits must be issued — and of course, the fires had to become safer (no more 48-metre tall monstrosities).

A torchlit procession replaced last year’s bonfires after the municipality refused to issue a permit for 2019.

Other Dutch New Year’s traditions have also come under heavy fire as of late. The Dutch cabinet recently announced that fireworks will be banned for 2020, following significant injuries, deaths, and annual mayhem.

Are you disappointed that this year’s NYE bonfire events are cancelled? Tell us in the comments below!

Feature Image: Emma Brown

De Jonge: partial lockdown likely in effect past mid-January

Brin Andrews
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De Jonge: partial lockdown likely in effect past mid-January

Minister of Health Hugo de Jonge expects that it will take some time to lower the infections to a level that allows for relaxation of measures. “You have to assume that it will really take longer than mid-January,” the minister said after Tuesday’s Vragenuurtje (Question Time).

De Jonge says the partial lockdown will likely remain in place until the rate of infection slows to a point where the roadmap suggests measures can be eased. “You can now say that the braking distance is simply longer,” says De Jonge, according to NU.

The minister says that with the R number again above 1, the RIVM’s only slightly lower weekly figures are cause for concern. “In a whole week, we only had 715 fewer infections, which is nowhere near good enough.”

De Jonge emphasises, “The fastest way to get rid of the measures is to stick to the measures.”

Question of Christmas

The cabinet is hoping to be more lenient around Christmas, but the current trend in coronavirus cases leaves this very much in question. “It does not look good. The expansion of possibilities in December has become uncertain,” said the minister.

A December 8 press conference will reveal what the cabinet determines for holiday measures. Previous advice from the Outbreak Management Team (OMT) and RIVM has been that measures should remain in place until at least mid-January.

One measure the cabinet is considering is keeping schools closed for longer around Christmas. “You have to keep schools closed longer if you really cannot do otherwise,” says De Jonge. “We have seen that this worked around the autumn holidays.”

“We will have to do everything we can”

De Jonge says that the recent decline in hospitalizations and ICU admissions is no cause for confidence. “In the short-term, we will have to do it ourselves, we are really not there yet.”

“We were well on our way and thought we were in control,” says De Jonge. “But if we want to spend Christmas together, we will have to do everything we can.”

What do you think of De Jong’s message? Are you optimistic that the partial lockdown can be lifted by the new year? Tell us in the comments below.

Feature Image: European People’s Party/Wikimedia Commons/CC2.0

 

Sluisje McSluisface: the lock name that could have been

Emily Burger
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0
Sluisje McSluisface: the lock name that could have been

IJmuiden will soon open what will become the biggest sea lock in the world, bringing major international attention to the Netherlands. But the new lock was in need of a name, so the municipality of Velsen decided to hold a competition for it.

Locals loved the opportunity to offer their two cents, with over 5000 names for the sluis being submitted for consideration. Names like Irma Sluis, the Lock Mother and, naturally, Lock McSluisface poured in, reports RTL Nieuws. But after months of wordplay and excitement, residents of Velsen and people on social media were bitterly disappointed when they learned what the municipality had chosen.

Rather than Sluizenmoeder or Sluisje McSluisface, which clearly would have been lock-tacular, the municipality decided to go with the most basic name ever: Sea Lock IJmuiden. Whoo-peee. 

“Did you need a competition for that?” residents complained. “What a joke.” The name has not only been criticised for its lack of creativity, but the fact that non-Dutch speakers will find it particularly hard to pronounce. This will likely have an effect on the international recognition that it receives.

Perhaps the worst part of the whole show was how the new name was announced, as though it would result in wide applause:

In the video Nienke Bagchus, director of network management at Rijkswaterstaat, thanks the public for all of their creative contributions. Jeroen Verwoort, an alderman of the municipality of Velsen, explains that they narrowed the list down to five names, including Irma Sluis which was all over the news. The council of the mayor and the aldermen of the municipality then made the final choice. 

Verwoort is proud of the fact that the new name, submitted by multiple people, will put IJmuiden on the international map. With Sea Lock IJmuiden? Whatever you say, Verwoort.

 What do you think of the new lock name? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.

Feature Image: Debot at Dutch Wikipedia/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

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