Dutch farmers, angry about new government regulations, used their tractors and trucks to block roads and distribution centers Monday, July 4. The protests were spurred by anger towards the government for plans that would require them to use less fertilizer and reduce livestock, as well as plans to slash emissions.
They also targeted Schipol Airport, the country’s largest hub, also advised people planning to travel during the protests to use public transportation to reach the airport as they believe the airport would be a target of the protesters.
Several traffic jams were reported on highways in the east of the country and on ferry routes in the north, but none near Schiphol during the morning commute.
Fishermen also joined the farmers in protesting the emission targets. They blocked the port in Harlingen with trawlers. Ferries to the islands of Terschelling and Vlieland could not leave for hours, news reports verified.
Shrimp fishermen in particular said they will have problems as a result of the government’s new regulations because next year they require applying for new fishing permits. Without making the required changes to their vessels, the permits might be withheld.