Local Briefs
Police statistics show February saw the fewest number of traffic accident deaths in 20 years, Radio Prague reported Feb. 28. Twenty-four people died in accidents last month, compared with 52 in February 2009. Police attribute the drop in fatalities to fewer people driving due to snowy conditions.
The Czech-born U.S.-based economist Jan Švejnar, who ran for president against incumbent Václav Klaus in 2008, may be added to the list of candidates in May's election to the Chamber of Deputies, Radio Prague reported Feb. 27. The economist could be added to the list of candidates for the Social Democratic Party.
Security guards have been protecting Dana Fischerová, the prime minister's wife, since early January, the Czech News Agency (ČTK) reported Feb. 28. The measure was in response to threats she received after helping a Roma family whose home in Vítkov was firebombed in April 2009.
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen is to visit the Czech Republic March 5, Radio Prague reported Feb. 26. He will meet with Prime Minister Jan Fischer and Foreign Affairs Minister Jan Kohout for talks expected to focus on the country's military involvement in Afghanistan.
Art historian Anna Fárová, who specialized in photography, died Feb. 27 after a serious illness at the age of 81, ČTK reported March 1.
Interior Minister Martin Pecina has complained about insufficient European support in the country's quarrel with Canada over the re-imposition of visas, Radio Prague reported Feb. 25. Pecina said he had called for solidarity from other EU members but had been disappointed by the response. Canada reintroduced visa requirements for Czechs in July 2009, citing the large numbers of asylum seekers.


0°C Prague, Clear skies


