News in English

8. April 2017, 21:58

21 dead in Fiji cyclone

At least 21 people are now known to have died in the most severe cyclone to hit Fiji in living memory. Several villages were flattened in the storm, crops have been wiped out and fresh water supplies blocked. Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama described the devastation: “homes have been destroyed. Many low-lying areas have flooded. Power lines have gone down all over the country. And roofing iron, glass and live electric wires pose serious threats to public safety. We are working hard to make the streets and communities secure once again. But that will take time."

150 killed in Syria attacks

The death toll from yesterday's bomb blasts in Syria has risen to around 150. The attacks in Damascus and Homs were claimed by the Islamic State terror group.

Jihadist trial opens in Graz

The trial has opened in Graz of a suspected jihadist who's accused of recruiting young men to fight for the Islamic State group. Prosecutors allege that the 34-year old, known as Mirsad O., is a key figure in the group and that he tried to spread extremist ideology as a preacher in Muslim communities in Vienna. A second defendant in the trial is accused of carrying out several murders in Syria.

Germany objects to Austrian migrant policy

Germany's interior minister Thomas de Maiziere has objected to Austria's new refugee and migrant policy. Austria is currently restricting asylum applications to 80 a day, whilst allowing up to 3,200 people to transit through the country. In an interview with ARD television, de Maiziere said that the number of people being allowed to travel onto Germany was too high.

Bolivia's President faces defeat in referendum

The President of Bolivia Evo Morales appears to have been defeated in a referendum on whether he can seek a fourth term in office. The 56-year old wanted to change the constitution so that he could run for re-election in 2019. Exit polls so far indicate a very close result. But opposition leader Samuel Doria Medina urged Morales to accept that he had lost: "Mr. President: the people have decided. Recognise the results. Don't hold any more electoral campaigns. Try and solve the economic, judicial, health and security problems that the men and women of Bolivia face."

Cameron to address parliament on EU

The British Prime Minister David Cameron is to address parliament today to start the process of holding a referendum on the UK's membership of the EU. He's expected to outline the deal reached last week with EU leaders in Brussels and present his case for the UK to remain within the 28-member bloc. The vote is to take place on June 23rd.

The weather

A sunny afternoon with some cloud about and a strong wind in Upper and Lower Austria and Vienna. Highs ranging between 10 and 21 degrees.

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