Officials and Civil Servants - Page 3 759 news

Catalonia Invalidates PISA Results After Major Sampling Error

Catalonia’s Education Department has invalidated its PISA test results after a sampling error excluded too many students. The incident led to disciplinary proceedings and the dismissal of a senior official. The OECD will not recognize the region’s results.

German Consul Drowns in Costa Rica Lagoon During Swim

Mario Genz, Germany’s consul in Costa Rica, drowned while swimming in the Río Cuarto lagoon. Emergency services tried to revive him but were unsuccessful. The incident has raised questions about safety at recreational sites.

Council Pays Staff Parking Fines with Public Money While Fining Residents

A London borough has been found using public funds to pay parking and traffic fines incurred by its own staff, while residents face strict penalties for similar violations. Internal documents show inconsistent efforts to recover these costs from employees, raising questions about transparency and accountability.

Tensions Escalate Between Marlaska and Robles Over Ceuta Crisis

Interior Minister Marlaska and Defence Minister Robles face renewed conflict after the Ceuta migration surge. Disagreements over intelligence warnings and Morocco’s role have deepened the rift, as the government struggles to contain internal divisions.

Spain Sets €40,000 Fines for Lobbying Violations Under New Decree

Spain has introduced new rules for lobbying groups, including fines of up to €40,000 and bans from official registers. The decree targets transparency and accountability in dealings with public officials, with basic changes affecting both lobbying groups and former senior officials.