THE HAGUE (Reuters) – Protesters gathered to march against the introduction of a “corona pass” in the Netherlands on Saturday as proof of COVID-19 vaccination became compulsory to get into bars, restaurants, theatres and other venues.

This new requirement for the “corona pass”, or proof of a negative coronavirus screening, was implemented in conjunction with almost all social distancing measures being lifted. In the Netherlands, 72% of people have had at least one vaccination.

Although face masks are still required for public transport, teachers and students will not have to wear them in schools. A rule that allowed 1.5m (approximately 5ft) of distancing from the public was also repealed.

Many hundred people marched through The Hague to protest the Dutch government.

Although most Dutch support the introduction, the criticisms from the hospitality industry have been mixed.

According to the Horeca Nederland, more than 40% of Dutch restaurant and bar owners don’t plan on asking clients for their vaccination certificates. This was based upon a survey by its members.

According to the association, many business see this requirement as an “economic tool” that will increase vaccine take-up.

The association stated that it was not possible to enforce the requirement and would financially harm a sector just beginning to recover.

The government led by caretaker Prime Minster Mark Rutte was also critical of the decision to institute the pass.

If we find ourselves in a society that makes us afraid of one another without being able to prove it, we need to rethink our priorities and consider whether this is the right direction for us. Mona Keijzer, Deputy Economic Affairs Minister, stated in an interview with a newspaper.