GAY ISSUE PLUNGES THE NATION INTO VIOLENT POLEMICS AND DEBATES

Until a couple of weeks ago, the gay issue was neatly kept behind closed doors.

However, since the gay demonstration was first announced, Catholic politicians and church officials expressed concern and, at first, forbade the demonstration on grounds that it would offend the millions of pilgrims and profane the Jubilee.

Prime Minister Amato's decision to postpone the march rose hell among supporters of human rights and politicians and clergy campaigning for public decency.

Former European Union Commissioner Emma Bonino threatened to file a complaint against Italy with the European Parliament on charges of violating human rights Rome Mayor Francesco Rutelli's withdrawal of the city's sponsorship rose havoc and caused him to defend himself from attacks on all sides.

National Alliance, however, is the strongest opponent of the march.

Franco Grillini, founder of Italy's largest gay rights organization stated that " for all the attention it has focused on us this has become an extraordinary opportunity" and declared himself very pleased that "on a political level, this debate has forced non Catholic parties to side with us, a fact that had never occurred in the history of the Italian Republic".