Hundreds of elderly residents demonstrated in Rotterdam against a planned end to free public transport for most older people in the city. They gathered at Rotterdam Centraal with signs, flags and banners before marching to the city hall on the Coolsingel. Protesters said they feared being confined to their homes and relied on public transport for activities including visiting clubs, spending time with grandchildren and volunteering.

Under the proposed decision, most elderly residents would have to pay for public transport next year. Only people receiving AOW with an income of up to 110 percent of the statutory social minimum would retain free off-peak travel. The Rotterdam City Council was due to consider the proposal that week.