Palmoli, thousands of signatures to support family living without services in the forest

The family, which lives in an old farmhouse, has no electricity, gas and water connections. 'They have a dry toilet, no utilities or modern goods,' the mayor recounts, 'and it was precisely this aspect that was at the centre of the discussion'. The first citizen then adds: 'I must say that they are by no means in a precarious hygienic condition, on the contrary. The children are also in an excellent condition, both in terms of personal cleanliness and affection, as confirmed by the discussions that have taken place during this period". The school node and the decision not to have the children attend the village school also does not seem to be a problem. "The parents, as provided for by law," the first citizen argues, "have chosen home schooling, i.e. the possibility of being taught at home by a trusted teacher appointed by the family for the duration of the school year, which then ends with a final exam.

The knots to be unravelled next week

The knot concerning the suspension of parental authority now remains to be unravelled. Over the next few days, the family's lawyer will present a number of testimonies in support of what is now known to all as the 'family in the woods'. 'Contrary to what happens in many other situations,' the mayor adds, 'there is no discomfort or violence, but a very precise life choice aimed at preserving the relationship between man and nature. We must now understand what the juvenile court's orientation will be, and whether they will have to make any changes such as building a bathroom with running water'.