Approximately a hundred high-displacement tractors entered Gran Via in Barcelona this Friday, where they were parked in front of the headquarters of the Ministry of Agriculture. The mobilization, called by the Gremi de la Pagesia union linked to Revolta Pagesa, has caused the closure of Gran Via between the intersections of Aribau and Rambla de Catalunya.
Tractors from various regions and blockade in the Eixample
Agricultural vehicles have arrived from Empordà, Bages, Osona, Alt Penedès and Baix Llobregat. The deployment has been visible since early morning and the protest is expected to continue for a good part of Saturday. The presence of tractors has altered mobility on one of the city's main arteries.
Claims and discontent over the CAP and Mercosur
The agricultural sector demands solutions for generational change, administrative overload, and the lack of sufficient aid to combat wildlife pests. Furthermore, they express their disagreement with the current Common Agricultural Policy and the recent trade agreement signed between the European Union and Mercosur
"It was necessary to come to Barcelona. First, to demonstrate that the claims we brought two years ago are still alive. And, second, to ask for the support of the urban world for local food, for our productions" - Joan, farmer from Fontanilles
The banners displayed by the farmers show slogans such as "Our hunger, your food" and "Don't play with food".
Proximity market and activities in Germanetes
During Friday afternoon, conferences, acts of adhesion, and a workshop to teach how to prepare and cultivate one's own garden have been scheduled. On Saturday morning, producers will set up a fresh vegetable market in Germanetes Jardins d"Emma, open to those who approach the protest
"People must know what they are eating, they must know that everything that arrives now thanks to the Mercosur treaty will not be of the quality nor will it have the food safety guarantees with which we produce" - Anna, farmer from Empordà
The generational handover is one of the main concerns. Josep Arrufat, a farmer from Rocafort de Vallbona, has explained his personal situation.
"I no longer have a successor, my children have studied and have already told me that they will not dedicate themselves to the field, but even so, I think I must be here" - Josep Arrufat, farmer from Rocafort de Vallbona
The protest continues under the organization of the Gremi de la Pagesia and the forecast of blockades and activities until Saturday in the center of Barcelona is maintained