Dozens of farmers are at Groningen Airport Eelde this morning to protest against the government’s nitrogen plans. Tractors are parked in front of the main entrance.
According to Mayor Marcel Thijsen of the municipality of Tynaarlo, the protest is happening ‘in close consultation’ with the authorities. “There has been contact with the farmers, the Public Prosecution Service, the police, the Marechaussee and the municipality,” says Thijsen. “The farmers have indicated that they want to keep the protest tidy. I am therefore confident that it will proceed in an orderly manner.”
The farmers brought eggs. They drink coffee at a round table. “There is a friendly atmosphere. Pirate music is played. It almost looks like a holiday, but one with a serious undertone,” describes reporter Mathijs Renkema. The mayor is also present and talks to the farmers. “Everyone has the right to make a statement. There will be a barbecue soon, regional products will be reviewed. So they make a statement.”
There are no commercial flights scheduled for today. The flights for the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) have not yet been prevented by the farmers. “The Mobile Medical Team uses the emergency exit at the airport. This has been secured by the Marechaussee,” says a spokesperson for the UMCG.