Italy expands restrictions and allows mayors to close the busiest areas of their cities to curb the coronavirus
Italian Prime Minister Giussepe Conte announced this Sunday new measures to contain the increase in infections in the country, where 11,705 new positives have been detected this day, the highest number since the start of the pandemic. The main novelty is that mayors will be able to close the busiest areas of their cities, such as parties or in which there are large crowds, every day from 9:00 p.m. to stop the advance of the coronavirus.
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"We cannot waste time to avoid a new general confinement, the country cannot afford it," Conte justified at a press conference by illustrating these measures focused on regulating life in bars, restaurants, gyms and schools, among other spaces.
According to the decree published this Sunday and in force until November 13, "the mayors order the closure to the public, after 9:00 p.m., of streets and squares of cities where agglomerations are created," although access will be allowed to those who go their addresses or "legitimately open" businesses.
The Government has agreed on these measures with the representatives of the regions, who in recent days had opposed other measures, such as the closure of gyms and swimming pools, which will not finally take place. Conte has warned, yes, that these sports centers have a week to adapt and strictly comply with the health protocols: "If not, I advance it, next week we will be forced to close them."
This Sunday's decree makes changes to the one approved on October 13, which forced bars and restaurants to close before midnight and at 9 p.m. for those who do not offer table service. From now on, venues that do not allow their customers to sit will have to close at 6 pm. In restaurants, in addition, only a maximum of six people may occupy the same table. The games, betting and bingo halls may only open until 9:00 p.m.
Likewise, the typical gastronomic fairs will not be allowed, the congresses will be held electronically and all the meetings of the Public Administration will be remote unless impossible. The restrictions on amateur contact sport are now extended to beginner competitions.
Regarding the educational system, the lessons in primary schools will continue to be face-to-face, considering them "a fundamental asset", but already from secondary school "more flexible methods will be favored" and entries will be organized in shifts.
Conte has expressed that he understands the sacrifices of the businessmen affected by the restrictions, at the same time that he has promised aid. Italy will remain in a state of emergency until January 31 next year.
