In Brief

The 79 projects financed through State funds to stimulate the economy last year generated 547 new jobs on the island.Thirty-nine different companies were employed for the Plan E projects, the majority of them local construction firms.

Menorcans receive four regional medals

The Balearic 2010 Gold Medals and the Ramon Llull Awards were presented in Palma on Sunday as part of the official act marking the Day of the Balearic Islands, four of them going to Menorcan individuals or associations.

The Fons Menorquí de Cooperació was one of the recipients of the region's Gold Medal for its work promoting social justice and economy in the world's poorest countries.

ASHOME received a Ramon Llull Award for its work in promoting Balearic hotels abroad and collaboration and dialogue with authorities.

Two individuals also received the award: Elisabeth (Bet) Salom Pons, the rhythmic gymnast who was part of the Spanish team in the Pekin Olympics; and a nun, Sister Enriqueta Garriga, for her lifelong dedication to her work as a nurse and social assistant.

Iberia charge for second suitcase

With effect from yesterday, Iberia started charging tourist class passengers on short and medium haul flights between 50 and 60 euros for a second suitcase.

Protest march against pension reforms

The demonstration called by the UGT and CCOO unions in protest against proposed changes in the pensionable age and the method of calculating pensions will take place today, starting from the Plaza Explanada in Maó at 1930 hrs.

Stocks Fair to be held in Maó this week

For the sixth year, a Stocks Fair is to be held in the Exhibition Centre on the Maó Industrial Estate. For three days members of the public will have the chance to buy items at discounted prices and shops will be able to clear their shelves ready for the spring/summer stock.

The fair will be open on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th from 1000-2100 hrs., and Sunday 7th from 1000-2000 hrs.

Joan Bagur national judo champion

Menorcan Joan Bagur was proclaimed national judo champion in the under 73 kgs. category in the Spanish Judo Championships for the Blind and Visually Impaired which were held in Maó on Saturday. The young judoist's next target is the World Championships to be held this month in the Turkish city of Antalya.

Valeriano Allés lose to Balearic rivals

In a home fixture on Saturday, the women's volleyball team lost 2:3 to their Balearic rivals, Oxidoc Palma, and remain third in the Superliga. This Saturday will see Valeriano travel to the mainland to play Haro Rioja Voley.

ViveMenorca defeated away by Cáceres 2016

The Menorcan basketball team were defeated on Friday by Cáceres 2016, the final score being 75:61 and stay in fourth place in the Adecco LEB Oro league. On Wednesday they will play Clinicas Rincon at home and on Sunday Melilla away.