Thousands in Italy protest against tougher regulations to contain coronavirus
- The ‘green pass’ certificate will allow fully vaccinated citizens to enter restaurants, museums, gyms and swimming pools, among other public places
- On Thursday, Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the requirement was not arbitrary, and that reopening required the continued use of the green pass
Thousands of people in Italy took to the streets on Saturday to oppose the government's health policies, as tougher regulations have been introduced to counter a surge in case numbers.
Some 3,000 people in Rome gathered to protest against what is known as the “green pass,” according to ANSA news agency. The EU's digital coronavirus certificate is also called the green pass in Italy.
There were also demonstrations in Milan, Turin and Naples, according to Corriere della Sera newspaper.
The Italian government has recently tightened measures to combat a rise in infection numbers, with tougher rules applying to indoor activities.
From August 6, people will need proof of vaccination, a negative test result or evidence of recovery from Covid-19 for indoor dining or to enter museums, gyms and swimming pools, among other public places.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the requirement was not arbitrary, and that reopening required the continued use of the green pass.
Significantly higher numbers of people have registered for vaccinations since then, a Health Ministry spokesman said.
So far, more than 54.9 per cent of the population over the age of 12 has been fully vaccinated.
EU citizens can prove they are fully vaccinated with the European coronavirus certificate, 14 days after receiving a second dose of the vaccine against Covid-19.
In Italy, however, the Health Ministry says the certificate is valid 14 days after holders receive their first dose.
In Italy, people can eat indoors once they have had one dose of the jab. However, the certification loses its validity if the holder fails to get the second dose of the vaccine.
