On Thursday, a large part of the Lithuanian farming community gathered for a protest action in front of the Seimas in Vilnius. The warning picket is organized by the Lithuanian Grain Growers Association together with the Agricultural Council and the Farmers' Union. According to the organizers of the event, more than a thousand participants are expected at Independence Square, and over one and a half hundred tractors are parked in the center of the capital.
Farmers' representatives have publicly expressed their dissatisfaction with the center-left government's proposed amendments to the Personal Income Tax (PIT) and State Social Insurance (SSI) laws, as well as road taxation. According to them, the new tax reform will significantly increase the financial burden on the agricultural sector, which, according to farmers, may negatively affect not only their income, but also the competitiveness of the entire sector and the vitality of regions.
How is a protest organized in the center of the capital?
During the protest, tractors are lined up on Gedimino Avenue, in the section from A. Goštautos to Jogailas Streets, but intersections, pedestrian crossings, entrances to yards, side streets, and public transport stops. Tractors are also parked on the part of Gynėjų Street near Independence Square - there are specially reserved parking spaces here.
Vilnius city municipality informs that from June 19, 5 a.m. to 21 p.m., vehicle traffic is prohibited on the Gedimino Avenue section between A. Goštauto and Jogailos streets, except for the movement of residents, service vehicles and public transport. From June 18, 18 p.m. to June 19, 21 p.m., parking of vehicles is prohibited on the Gynėjų Street section near Independence Square.
Residents are advised to plan their trips in advance.
Due to the protest, public transport schedules may temporarily change. Vilnius City Municipality recommends that residents plan their trips in advance and allow extra time.
The farmers' protest near the Seimas highlights their desire to be heard and reminds citizens of important decisions taking place in the country that may affect not only the agricultural sector, but also everyday life.
