In the Costa Rican News - July 07

Mismanagement on the Osa Coastline??

This week it came to light that the real estate free for all that has hit Costa Rica in the last couple of years has spread to the natural haven of the Osa Peninsula, and its pristine beaches. It is said that many of the properties built in this region do not have planning permits, are built illegally on land not owned by the developer or have been stretched out over zoning boundaries put in place to protect certain areas.

According to a report released by the comptrollers office, this is where it ends, the Government will no longer tolerate illegal developments, and have given the Mayor of the Osa and his team 2 months to rectify the problems with illegal developments to be torn down and paperwork to be produced by all other developments to prove their legality, or they too will be leveled.

Cole, the Mayor, says that he welcomes the support, but that it has come to late and to little. He went on to say that either the deadlines be changed, or the government should provide him with much more resources so he can achieve the set deadlines.

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CAFTA to commercialize the sale of Human Organs??

In what is being described as the most bizarre twist so far in the argument over the Central American Free Trade Agreement with the US, a group of Doctors have stated that it will legalize and remove tariffs on the sale of Human Organs, Bones and Tissue throughout Central and North America.

This however is not that case according to government officials and CAFTA representatives. The inclusion of this in many trade agreements in the past has not affected the trade in any way, and they see no reason why it should this time round. There are still laws in place in all the countries saying that it is illegal to buy or sell organs, and this pact will not change anything.

Again it just looks like another weak plan to try and de rail the CAFTA train before it reaches its final decision deadline. For more news on CAFTA Check back next week.

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July Exchange Rates

The Exchange rates below are not accurate on a daily basis but just an approximation for your benefit. For more up to date exchanges rates please visit your local bank or online with a currency seller.

Costa Rican Colon

1044.52 699.575

516.61

US Dollar

2.0511 1.371 1.00

 

Usually in Costa Rica US Dollars or Costa Rica Colones can be used. in popular areas and in larger shops US dollars will be more widely accepted. However in small towns and locally run stores only Colones will be accepted.

This news was written by Paul Smith a specialist Consultant for Holidays in Costa Rica.

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