Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte's latest speech (as of March 26, 2020)

"In these days the working and professional life of many people is suspended. Many citizens experience this change in life habits with great anguish, not only because of the pitfall of facing an invisible enemy of our health, but also because of the uncertainties connected to work and one's own economic activity.

In recent days I have firmly declared that the Government is with all of you. I have not guaranteed you that we will be able to perform economic miracles. But I ask you not to doubt that the government's hardwork... we are pressing hard on the accelerator to support workers with strength and speed, self-employed workers and professionals who make Italy great every day.

I have given a clear indication to all public offices to overcome ordinary bureaucratic procedures, normal times are shortened as much as possible. The "Cura Italia" Decree was only a first step: over 11 billion euros are intended for financial help, indemnities and bonuses in favor of self-employed and professionals. A first response for 11 million citizens. We have extended the CIG (Cassa Integrazione) by way of derogation to the entire national territory, to all production sectors.

From Monday 30 March, employers can apply (for Cassa Integrazione - valid for companies of private sectors, thus, for operai and impiegati) and the amount will directly arrive on the employee's bank account. I asked the Ministry of Labor and INPS to put in an extraordinary effort to make payments activated by April 15 and, if possible, even earlier: I want them to be halved compared to the deadline.

Applications for bonuses and compensation (Voucher Babysitter, Bonus per autonomi) will be available on the INPS website from March 31st. To the many self-employed, to many registered entrepreneurs, I say clearly and transparently: this is only the beginning, other measures are coming. We are in the middle of an obstacle course for our country. And when the obstacle becomes too high for workers and families, the Government is here to help overcome it. Together, we must work to raise Italy. Immediately."

ref. https://www.facebook.com/GiuseppeConte64/posts/882331072248859