haarlemsdagbladMar 14, 2026, 14:00

Bayram Gezer (61) combined 28 years of council work in Beverwijk with 41 years at Tata Steel: ‘To relax, I switched piles of paper’

Bayram Gezer is stepping down after serving 28 years as a council member in Beverwijk, making him one of the longest-serving local politicians in the Netherlands. Throughout his political career, he simultaneously worked for 41 years at Tata Steel while balancing academic pursuits and family life.

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

End to intake freeze at Levvel, youths with severe issues can once again be admitted in Amsterdam

Care organization Levvel has ended its intake freeze for Amsterdam youth following successful negotiations to secure more beds for those in need of severe residential care. While access has been restored, the municipality is demanding better coordination among providers and has initiated an independent financial audit of Levvel to ensure future stability.

Cabinet plans to require homeowners to install hybrid heat pumps starting in 2029

Beginning in 2029, homeowners in the Netherlands must install hybrid heat pumps instead of gas-fired boilers when replacing their heating systems. The government plans to exempt apartments and monuments, while a decision on future subsidies for these costly installations is expected by 2027.

Minister now understands why Halsema did not intervene against Hamas banners: "No other option"

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema and Justice Minister David van Weel have reconciled after the Minister acknowledged that current laws prevented the Mayor from stopping pro-Hamas banners at an October 7 demonstration. Halsema noted that while the slogans were offensive, she acted within the boundaries of the law and called on the government to resolve long-standing legislative inaction regarding the glorification of terrorism.

Thuisbezorgd and Uber Eats to provide clear information on mandatory extra fees

Thuisbezorgd and Uber Eats have agreed to display all mandatory service fees upfront following pressure from the Dutch Consumers Association regarding hidden costs and misleading discounts. To compensate customers for past issues, both companies will issue discount vouchers worth between 5 and 30 euros.

Fatherhood is the next milestone for Prime Minister Jetten, he pays no mind to hostility

Prime Minister Rob Jetten has announced that he will become the first Dutch head of government to father a child while in office. The prime minister, who is the first openly gay leader of the country, had previously shared his desire to become a parent.