04/30/2020 08:59
(Act. 30.04.2020 08:59)
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For many, the easing is not going fast enough
© APA (AFP)
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Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who has announced a minimal relaxation of the curfew and the freeze on production from next Monday, is under increasing pressure. Several regions – especially the least affected by the corona virus – are calling for “more courageous” steps towards normalization and the revival of the weakening economy.
While Rome only eases the curfew with triple steps, the Veneto region is bolder. Since this week you can do sports outdoors in the residential community, but the safety distance must be maintained. Citizens can move within the region to reach vacation rentals or boats that are anchored outside of the residential community. Restaurants and pizzerias may offer take-away dishes. “People want to work again. After two months of quarantine, people want to get back to work. The recession of Veneto means recession for the whole of Italy,” warned Venetian President Luca Zaia.
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Lombardy, Veneto and Piedmont – Italy’s economic engine – are increasing the pressure on the Conte government to start production more extensively after the lockdown on Sunday. Lombardy is planning a staggered restart of productive activities from Monday. The work should not be spread over five days, but over seven days with different times. In order to avoid rush hours and crowds on public transport, said the Lombard President Attilio Fontana. The resumption of production should take place under special safety precautions and keeping social distance.
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The President of Piedmont Alberto Cirio agrees. “Italy has to start again, our families, the companies and our regions need it. We are aware of the dangers, but we have to find a new way of normalcy,” said Cirio. Trentino South Tyrol and Friuli also strive to start economic activities at an early stage. Uniform and strict procedures were important in the acute corona phase, in the current phase one could get the economy moving again.
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The southern Italian region of Calabria eased its measures as of (today) Thursday. This means that bars, restaurants, pizzerias and sugar bakeries with tables outside can open again, which according to the government should only take place on June 1st. It is important that the distance is maintained and hygiene measures are taken. Outdoor markets are also allowed to open again.
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The government remains tough. It wants to challenge all provisions that do not comply with government regulations. The epidemic curve has declined, but the coronavirus has not been defeated. Italy must therefore exercise extreme caution to prevent the plague from flaring up again.
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From next Monday, industry and construction will be able to start operating again. Museums and libraries open from May 18th. Retailers, restaurants and hairdressers and tourism have to wait until June 1 to restart.
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