Extinction rebellion ‘occupied’ Gravensteen, well -known climate activist sticks to the gateway (Ghent)

The occupation of the Gravensteen in 1949 is still legendary in Ghent. Students then ran from Leer at rising beer prices. « If such an action is possible for beer, then something similar can now also be done for climate agency according to Extinction Rebellion, » the organization says.

With about 15 activists, they penetrated at the opening on Wednesday morning at 10 am to let banners down from the tilting of the monument.

Wouter Mouton was also present, the well -known activist was already in the spotlight when he was sticking to it The girl with the pearland with actions during sports competitions. He stuck with his hand to the ground in the entrance of the castle.

In the meantime, another group of activists was tumbled loudly, after which a ‘citizen council for the climate’. In total, around 40 people were involved in the promotion.

« Remove the climate policy from the forget well, » it sounded. Extinction Rebellion calls on Ghent and its inhabitants to climate action and « real democracy », in the form of civilian councils, because « the solutions clearly do not come from above ».

Evacuation

The police arrived. The activists bypassed the security by jumping over the entrance gates of the Gravensteen, according to the police « with some pushing and pulling », and the action was not requested either.

Tourists looked up weird, but first could just enter. The monument was temporarily closed to the public around 11 am to be able to do the activists. « They were given the opportunity to leave voluntarily, but did not comment on this, » says spokesperson Matto Langeraert. Even a climbing team from the fire brigade came to the scene.

The monument was evacuated by noon. A PV was drawn up for the activists who drove in. They risk a GAS fine. Four of them was arrested administratively because they did not want to show their identity card to the police.