Thousands of Dutch farmers protest, fearing government cuts

By ALEKSANDAR FURTULA
Associated Press

STROE, Netherlands (AP) — Thousands of farmers have gathered in the central Netherlands to protest the Dutch government’s plans to rein in emissions of nitrogen oxide and ammonia. They drove their tractors across the country and snarled traffic on major highways. Wednesday The protest was organized earlier this month after the government published nationwide targets for reducing emissions. Farmers claim their livelihoods and those of thousands of people who work in the agricultural services industry are on the line. By late morning, many had arrived at the demonstration in the village of Stroe. A stage was set up for speakers to address the crowd and music blared out of speakers while children bounced in a giant inflatable pig.