Half of all Dutch people think the Netherlands pays too much to the European Union, according to a poll commissioned by a Dutch television programme entitled "Europe in ten irritations". Only 13 percent of respondents were able to name the amount paid annually to the EU per Dutch person, which is 275 euros.

Almost half the Dutch also still think that the single currency, the euro, has increased the cost of living since it was introduced as the common currency in several EU member states in 2002. Other irritations include the dull image of Europe and the EU's open borders, which some people argue encourage Polish workers and other job seekers to come to the Netherlands.

Elections for the European Parliament will be held in the Netherlands on Thursday. Dutch pollster Maurice de Hond says predicting the outcome is difficult due to the expected low turnout. Dutch MP Geert Wilders' right-wing Party for Freedom is expected to make gains on its anti-EU platform.