Cabinet has decreed a state of emergency and disbursed an initial 50 million euros following a devastating August 24 earthquake in central Italy that flattened entire towns and killed hundreds, officials said Friday.
Premier Matteo Renzi announced the measures last night, adding that Economy Minister Pier Carlo Padoan will sign off on suspending taxes in the stricken areas.
Also on Friday, Renzi declared tomorrow a national day of mourning. Flags on public buildings across Italy will fly at half mast.
The Italian Banking Association (ABI) has called for banks to suspend mortgage payment collections on quake-damaged homes. The National Association of Insurance Companies (ANIA) called for member firms to defer premium payments. As of Sunday, ticket sales at State museums across the country will go to earthquake relief.
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