News
PM wants test of integrated rescue system
Prime Minister Jiri Paroubek has called for a test of the country's preparedness in dealing with the consequences of a terrorist attack. Following another series of explosions in London on Thursday, Mr. Paroubek asked the Interior Minister Frantisek Bublan for members of the integrated rescue system to stage an exercise simulating an emergency operation in the wake of a terrorist attack. The Prime Minister said he had no evidence to suggest that Prague was in serious danger of an attack, emphasizing that the measure was precautionary.
Following the terrorist attacks in London on July 7th the Czech Republic reinforced police patrols at key sites including the Prague metro, railways, airports and strategic buildings, as well as border crossings. Heightened security measures remain in effect.
Attack on armoured vehicle not against Czech target
Thursday's attack on a Czech armoured vehicle in Baghdad does not appear to have been directed against the Czech Republic, Interior Minister Frantisek Bublan told the CTK news agency on Friday. Mr. Bublan said that attacks on foreign armoured vehicles are not exceptional in Iraq and there was nothing in this case to indicate that the rebels intended to target a Czech vehicle or official. The armoured Toyota belonging to the Czech embassy was carrying military police officers from Bagdad Airport when the rebels opened fire. The heavily armoured car drove through the fire and continued on its way. No one was injured in the incident.
Senator charged with bribery
Senator Alexander Novak of the Civic Democratic Party has been charged with bribery. According to the charges the senator accepted a 43 million crown bribe for mediating the sale of municipal shares in local power and gas distributing companies to a German firm. The Senator has refused to comment on the case. The Senate stripped him of parliamentary immunity in November of 2003. If found guilty, he could face up to eight years in prison.
Flood prevention exercise
The Czech capital will witness its first ever flood exercises at the weekend to test the readiness, impact and effectiveness of emergency crews and newly erected flood barriers. The emergency exercise comes just three years after devastating floods wrecked havoc throughout the Czech Republic and other parts of central Europe. Some 500 specialists will be taking part in the exercise and some 50 trucks will transport mobile flood barriers. Fire fighters and police officers will be out in force, helping to set up barriers and guard closed off streets. City transport will be restricted in some parts of Prague.
Weather:
Saturday is expected to be partly cloudy to overcast with scattered rain showers and day temperatures between 20 and 23 degrees Celsius.
