Tarxien parish priest Fr Chris Ellul has lambasted the health authorities for imposing the use of barriers for the procession of Baby Jesus, a traditional event linked with Christmas festivities.

Venting his anger of Facebook, the parish priest published an email in which he was informed that any procession must “rigorously adhere” to the instructions enlisted on the website of the Health Ministry.

The guidelines indicate that there should be barriers to “enclose” the event, with temperatures being taken for the participants who have to pre-book. Mask wearing is also mandatory, according to the email received by Fr Ellul.

“A spineless society,” the parish priest charged. The use of barriers is imposed discriminately, with some events needing them and others not, he said.

“Shame on you,” he said, sarcastically inviting – in what appears to be a jibe directed at politicians - to “come to applaud and pose for photos,” he added.

He urged the public to open its eyes and speak up.