Tag Archive: middle-east


Knesset Summer Session 2012 Day 3: Election Fever

Filed under: Daily Updates, Knesset — 3 Comments
May 28, 2012

The Knesset’s Wednesday session lasted about seven hours. Fourteen bills were discussed. One bill became law after passing its third reading, and two bills were advanced after passing their preliminary readings. One bill was turned into a motion, two bills were not brought to a vote in order to avoid defeat and eight bills were defeated. The day was filled with election fever as the opposition proposed bills with little chance of advancing.

 

Non-Bills Summary

 

  • Deputy Health Minister Litzman (U.T.J.) and Interior Minister Yishai (Shas) answered urgent queries at the beginning of the session.
  • Speaker Rivlin greeted the visiting European Parliament members.
  • Five motions were discussed on the hot news issues of the week. Three were sent to committee by the votes of 10-2, 9-0 and 6-1. The other two motions were defeated 6-6 and 2-3.

 

Bills Summary

 

Amendment to the Defamation Bill

MK Eichler (U.T.J.) slammed Likud and Liberman for trying to call early elections and their attempts to raise the threshold. He explained his amendment would add belonging to a social group under the Defamation Bill.  Eichler pulled the bill before voting in order to avoid defeat.

Amendment to the Consumer Protection Bill

MK Yoel Hasson (Kadima) explained his amendment would prohibit conditional commitment transactions for a fixed period of time. He said that this bill targets gym memberships that severely harm consumer protection. He told the gyms that this bill would force them to give monthly rates as opposed to yearly rates and will increase competition.

Minister Nahari (Shas) expressed government support for the bill.

The bill passed its preliminary reading 23-0 and was sent to the Education, Culture and Sport Committee.

Amendment to the Planning and Building Bill

MK Michaeli (Shas) explained his amendment would prohibit the demolition or the change of a structure of religious importance. He stressed the importance of prohibiting the rezoning of religious buildings such as synagogues to maintain their holiness. He talked about a synagogue in Tel Aviv that was built in 1920 and a person who recently bought it and knocked it down to build high-rise residential buildings. He asked how the Jewish state could allow Jewish structures to be demolished under Israeli law.

Interior Minister Yishai (Shas) expressed government support for what he called a very important bill that would match Israeli law with most western countries. He warned that those who vote against this bill would be voting against religious rights.

MK Horowitz (Meretz) opposed the bill and charged this is a bill that will give Shas the power to prevent the destruction of any building they decide is a religious building. He called this bill extortion and illogical. He suggested this bill would also apply to Judea and Samaria. He stated the current law must be upheld.

 

MK Michaeli said election fever has turned the most logical bills into political ammunition. He stressed that this bill won’t be applied to Judea and Samaria. He noted this bill will protect churches and mosques as well and he couldn’t understand how this is Shas extortion.

The bill passed its preliminary reading 49-13 and was sent to the Interior Committee.

Two Amendments to the Social Security Bill

MK Herzog (Labor) explained his amendment would give those sexually assaulted at work social security payment benefits equal to those injured at work. He said that sexual assault is equal to if not worse than physical injuries and women should receive the same benefits.

MK Gal-On (Meretz) explained her similar amendment would accomplish the same thing. She said that women don’t come forward about sexual assault because they don’t want to lose their job and this bill will encourage them to do so.

Labor and Welfare Minister Kahlon (Likud) said that those who are sexually assaulted at work should be protected and the law does protect them as it does all sexually assaulted women. He stated that those physically injured during their course of employment are entitled to different benefits and there is no reason to mix the two. He said that the government opposes the bill because this is something that already exists, and this bill is purely politically motivated.

MK Gal-On said that these bills are meant to increase the money given to sexually assaulted women in order to encourage them to report the incident to the proper authorities.

The first bill was defeated 21-31.

The second bill was defeated 19-31.

Two Amendments to the Value Added Tax Bill

MK Molla (Kadima) said there are many poor people in Israel, and it is the government’s responsibility to take care of them. He explained his amendment would place a zero rate tax on basic food products. He said he feels Israel needs to become a welfare state and that he isn’t embarrassed by that view. He stated that he isn’t a communist, but he isn’t a capitalist either.

MK Horowitz said that indirect taxes are bad and his party is against all of them, including VAT. He said indirect taxes are discriminatory against the poor and help the rich. He said that as a proud socialist he feels that tax exemptions on basic food items are the government’s responsibility, as is strong government supervision. He said the disparity between the high cost of living and the low salaries is unbearable. He slammed the capitalistic economic policy of the government.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) said that indirect taxes like the VAT are an equal tax on both the rich and the poor. He said that all items have a VAT, and the beginning of VAT exemptions will open the floodgates, crashing the VAT system. He warned that this bill would cost 6 billion shekels each year, and the government opposes the bills for this reason.

MK Molla said that he isn’t looking to exempt everything from VAT but insisted that many items should be exempt.

The first bill was defeated 17-32.

The second bill was defeated 17-32.

Amendment to the Real Estate Tax Bill

MK Sheetrit (Kadima) said there are 146,000 empty “ghost” apartments in Israel that are owned by foreigners who don’t live in them. He said that his bill will encourage them to sell these apartments. He explained his amendment would eliminate the exemption from capital gains tax for nonresidents. He said that by doing this the apartments will no longer be a sound financial investment and they will sell their assets. He said there are 20,000 empty apartments in Tel Aviv, 14,000 in Haifa, 10,000 in Jerusalem, 1,720 in Be’er Sheva, 1,423 in Petah Tikva, 1,114  in Holon, 1,122 in Ramat Gan, 1,070 in Ashkelon, 958 in Tiberias and 902 Rishon Le’Tzion. He noted that in England the government takes away foreigners’ homes in London and sells them off. He noted this bill will increase taxes on foreigners by 3 billion shekels annually, and that money will be invested domestically. He slammed the government for opposing a bill that would lower prices in the housing market.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen praised this bill as another financially smart Sheetrit bill from a previous Finance Minister. He said the government opposes the bill because it will cause Israel to violate certain signed international treaties and because it lacks exemptions for nonresidents who plan to immigrate to Israel in the future. He suggested turning the bill into a motion in order to discuss the idea more and to find loopholes that will provide a well-rounded solution.

MK Sheetrit thanked Cohen for supporting his bill and expressed understanding that Cohen is just the messenger. He insisted his bill is a quick solution that will lower the housing prices. He noted that the foreigners already have a VAT tax exemption and this real estate tax exemption is really just too much.

The bill was defeated 10-27.

MK Tirosh (Kadima) announced she voted twice by mistake (her place and MK Shai). Deputy Speaker Vaknin announced it was a mistake for the protocol.

Amendment to the Nazi Persecution Bill

MK Bielski (Kadima) explained his amendment would create a national authority to serve as a one stop shop for Holocaust survivors to ease the bureaucracy. He noted that 80 MKs co-sponsored his bill. He said that asking elderly Holocaust survivors to run from one government ministry office to another is unacceptable. He said that by opposing the bill the government is saying that they don’t care about fighting for Holocaust survivor rights.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen said that all 120 MKs stand in unity for the Holocaust survivors and dismissed Bielski’s statements. He pointed out that Prime Minister Netanyahu founded a special office in the Prime Minister Office for Holocaust survivors that is led by Deputy Minister Nass (Likud). He said that office serves the Holocaust survivors very well and accomplishes much of what is asked from this bill. He went on to list the government accomplishments from that office for his final ten minutes.

MK Bielski charged the bill is being dropped because of politics. He screamed at Cohen and the government for three minutes.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen said he was offended by Bielski’s words because he agrees with the ideas but rejects that the government is failing the survivors.

Minister Peled (Likud) got up and asked, as a Holocaust survivor, if the vote on the bill could be delayed. Bielski agreed.

Profiler Teacher in Education System Bill

MK Tirosh (Kadima) explained her original bill would regulate the rights of the ten to fifteen percent of students with learning disabilities. She said that currently the government is not involved and external tests determine which rights will be given to the students. She charged that certain people buy learning disability rights. She stated her bill would nationalize the learning disability tests and recommendations and prevent misuse of the system. She said that her system is not just about punishment and those who cannot afford to buy rights would get them under her system. She said the 4,000 schools can share resources, and this does not have to cost a lot of money.

Education Minister Sa’ar (Likud) said that Tirosh touched on a sensitive subject and he agrees with her diagnosis of the problem but not her solution. He added that he personally agreed with the bill but the government requested two months to examine the 400 million shekel budget of the bill. He noted that the only reason the government is asking the Knesset to defeat the bill is because Tirosh chose not to wait the two months. He said that his ministry’s budget will be 5 to 6 billion shekels, and it takes time to reduce the number by 400 million. He went on to the topic of politics and slammed the opposition for trying to delay early elections. He said that Israel’s opposition will be the only opposition to vote against early elections.

MK Tirosh said that arrogance is a difficult thing. She slammed the government for deciding to call early elections and force the public to vote when they don’t want to.

Deputy Speaker Vaknin (Shas) said that the Knesset should conduct a secret vote on early elections. He said the results would be 2-118 with Netanyahu and Liberman as the only two who would vote for.

The bill was defeated 6-21.

Amendment to the Public Housing Tenant Rights Bill

MK Solodkin (Kadima) explained the amendment would increase the number of single parent immigrant families eligible for public housing by having criteria that would be easier to attain.

Housing Minister Atias (Shas) said that Solodkin’s bill is discriminatory against Israelis. He said that immigrants aren’t immigrants forever, and he is against raising the ten year ceiling. He said that all citizens on the public housing waiting list starting next week will get NIS 3,000 a month towards rent without giving up their position in line. He said that his measure is social justice, and Solodkin’s bill is not.

MK Solodkin slammed Atias, pointing out that 3,000 people waiting in line with his ministry will get NIS 3,000, but the 50,000 people waiting on the Immigrant Ministry list will not. She said that she is done with the bill and will tell the immigrants to “Supreme Court” the government in order to get the job done.

The bill was defeated 6-14.

Motion/Amendment to the Arrangements Bill

MK Swaid (Hadash) explained his amendment would change the calculations for property tax reductions for tuitions in the municipalities. He said the change would increase city tax reductions for families that house their university students at home. He stated this bill would assist poor families that send their children to university. He agreed to turn the bill into a motion to avoid defeat.

The motion passed 6-0 and was sent to the Appropriations Committee.

Amendment to the Law and Administration Ordinance Bill

MK Katzeleh (N.U.) said that early elections are a waste of money and pointed out the country sent the MKs to the Knesset for at least 4 years. He stated even though he doesn’t like this government, the people want it to last longer. He noted the agreement with Jewish Home and the National Religious Party that would have them running with National Union in the next elections. He expressed confidence that a joint list will lead to a double digit showing in elections and the party will have a lot of influence in the next government. He went on to discuss his nationalist bill that he said will be defeated by the nationalist parties for a third time this term. He said this bill put in place Israeli law in the cities, Regional Councils and Local Councils of Judea and Samaria. He listed his bill’s 40 co-sponsors from Likud, Yisrael Beitenu and other parties. He said that 350,000 Jews live in Judea and Samaria under military rule. He went on to slam Prime Minister Netanyahu’s position on a Palestinian state as well as the building freeze in Judea and Samaria. He read out the names of the Likud Mayors in Judea and Samaria and their cities’ populations and told them to call their Likud MK friends to convince them to vote for this bill that will end their status as residents with full taxation without equal representation.

Justice Minister Neeman expressed government opposition to the bill because it did not reach the Ministerial Committee of Legislative Affairs.

MK Katzeleh said it was not even worth responding to Neeman.

The bill was defeated 4-14.

Amendment to the Income Tax Ordinance Bill

Labor, Welfare and Health Committee Chairman Haim Katz (Likud) explained the amendment would change the regulations on provident funds (Kupot Gemel). He spent about twelve minutes explaining the incredibly long and financially complex bill.

The bill passed its second reading 13-0.

The bill passed its third reading 13-0.

 

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This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s May 2, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/02072712.doc

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Knesset Poll: Likud 31, Labor 17, Y.B. 14, Yesh Atid 13, Kadima 9; New Livni Party would gain 9 seats and Mofaz led Kadima would drop to 5

Filed under: Knesset, Polls — 3 Comments
May 6, 2012

Internet based Panels Polling Company poll conducted and broadcast on Knesset Channel 99 on May 3 2012.

If elections were held today who would you vote for?
Current Knesset seats in [brackets]

31 [27] Likud
17 [08] Labor
14 [15] Yisrael Beitenu
13 [—] Yesh Atid
09 [28] Kadima
05 [04] National Union
15 [19] Religious Parties: Shas, Yahadut Hatorah/UTJ and Jewish Home
16 [14] Left and Arab Parties: Meretz, Hadash, Ra’am-Ta’al and Balad
00 [05] Independence

Likud 31, Labor 16, Kadima led by Mofaz with Livni as #2 13, Yesh Atid 11

Likud 30, Labor 17, Yesh Atid 11, New Livni Party 9, Kadima led by Mofaz 5

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JPost Poll: Likud 31, Labor/Y.B. 15, Kadima 13, Lapid 11

Filed under: Knesset, Polls — 2 Comments
April 29, 2012

The Jerusalem Post published a Smith Research poll of 500 Israelis on April 27, 2012.

If elections were held today who would you vote for?

Current Knesset seats in [brackets]
31 [27] Likud
15 [08] Labor
15 [15] Yisrael Beitenu
13 [28] Kadima
11 [—] Yesh Atid (Lapid)
08 [11] Shas
06 [05] Yahadut Hatorah/UTJ
04 [04] National Union
03 [03] Jewish Home
03 [03] Meretz
11 [11] Hadash, Ra’am-Ta’al and Balad
00 [05] Independence
00 Am Shalem (Amsalem)

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Knesset Spring Session 2012 Day 2 of 2: Coalition MKs Pressure Government on Migron Bills

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April 26, 2012

The Knesset took a break from their 39-day spring recess to have a four and a half hour session. The main topic was the Migron Bills, which were discussed but not officially presented or voted on. The disconnect on the issue between the coalition MKs and coalition ministers was evident, and nothing was resolved. Five motions were discussed overall. Both this and the previous special session resulted in low attendance with around one third of the MKs present at the peak of the day.

 

Non-Bills Summary

 

  • A motion on the topic of ‘The two Migron Bills that weren’t advanced and their votes were postponed several times during the winter session’, was discussed by MKs Danon (Likud), Orlev (J.H.), Zahalka (Balad), MK Ariel (N.U.) and Coalition Chairman Elkin (Likud). The discussion was tense, with heavy heckling and threats thrown around. Minister Begin (Likud) responded in the name of the government with a 45-minute response that was disrupted by hecklers, mostly from the coalition and his own party. Begin stressed that Orlev’s bill was unconstitutional but reserved judgment on MK Yaakov Katz’s bill. Following Minister Begin’s answer, MK Sheetrit (Kadima), MK Shai (Kadima), MK Plesner (Kadima), MK Herzog (Labor), MK Ben Ari (N.U.) and MK Khenin (Hadash) gave speeches to weigh in with their opinions. The motion was not voted on.

 

  • A motion on the topic of ‘Gaps in education. The Ministry of Education’s report that indicates gaps between Ethiopian natives and Israelis’ was discussed by Kadima MKs Molla and Tirosh. Justice Minister Neeman presented the government’s response. The motion was sent to the Education Committee by a 9-0 vote.

 

  • A motion on the topic of ‘Deterioration of socioeconomic conditions and government policy of fighting poor instead of poverty’ was discussed by MK Khenin (Hadash) and MK Zahalka (Balad). Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) presented the government’s response. The motion was sent to the Appropriations Committee by an 11-0 vote.
  • A motion on the topic of ‘Cost of living – the Netanyahu government continues to raise prices’ was discussed by Kadima MKs Shai and Duan. The motion was not voted on.
  • A motion on the topic of ‘Justice Minister Neeman’s initiative that bypasses the Supreme Court to enact legislation’ was discussed by MK Gal-On (Meretz) and MK Herzog (Labor). Justice Minister Neeman responded in the name of the government and defended himself. The motion was not voted on.

 

________________________________________________________________

This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s April 18, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01886712.doc

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Knesset Spring Session 2012 Day 1 of 2: Mofaz – New Opposition Leader

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The Knesset took a break from their 39-day spring recess to have a three hour session. The main topic of the day was MK Mofaz taking over as Opposition Leader following his victory over MK Livni in the Kadima leadership race. Since Kadima is the largest Knesset faction in the opposition, Kadima’s leader also serves as the Opposition Leader. Four motions were discussed, technical changes were made to a bill, and an election date for the next State Comptroller was determined.

 

Non-Bills Summary

 

  • Speaker Rivlin announced that the election for the next State Comptroller is set for May 14. He said that each candidate must have ten MKs backing them and submit their candidacy by May 4.
  • Speaker Rivlin announced that MK Shaul Mofaz will replace MK Tzipi Livni as the Leader of the Opposition effective immediately, following Mofaz’s victory over Livni in Kadima’s leadership primary the previous week. New Opposition Leader Mofaz gave a speech blasting the government, although he did take a moment to put on a kippa and read some passages from the bible. Education Minister Sa’ar (Likud) responded on behalf of the government in a fiery speech that resulted in Kadima heckling him throughout his time at the podium.
  • A motion on the topic of ‘Netanyahu’s three years of failed government’ was discussed by Kadima MKs Yoel Hasson and Molla. Education Minister Sa’ar responded on behalf of the government. The motion was sent for discussion in the Appropriations Committee following a raise of hands in support of the move.
  • A motion on the topic of ‘Bank of Israel confirms Netanyahu government deepens the gap of Israel’s sectors’ was discussed by Kadima MKs Tirosh and Whbee. The motion was not voted on.
  • A motion on the topic of ‘The failure of the Netanyahu government in perpetuating social disparities and the latest price increase wave’ was discussed by Labor Chairwoman Yachimovich and Meretz Chairwoman Gal-On. Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) responded on behalf of the government. The motion was sent for discussion in the Appropriations Committee following a show of hands in support of the move.
  • A motion on the topic of ‘Land Day and the Negev Arabs’ public distress’ was discussed by Hadash Chairman Barakeh and Ra’am-Ta’al MKs Tibi and El-Sana. Deputy Finance Minister Cohen responded on behalf of the government. The motion was sent for discussion in the Interior Committee following a show of hands in support of the move.
  • Finance Committee Chairman Shama (Likud) presented his committee’s request to make several technical changes to an Amendment on the Public Broadcasting Bill. The changes were approved by a show of hands supporting the move.

 

________________________________________________________________

This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s April 2, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01805212.doc

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Knesset Winter Session 2011/2012 Day 62: 25-Bill Day Closes Winter Session

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The Knesset’s Tuesday session lasted a little less than eight hours. 25 bills were discussed. 16 bills became law after passing their third readings, and nine bills were discussed in their first reading. This was the last meeting of the winter session. The summer session will open on April 30, 2012. The opposition was not very present and allowed the coalition to pass many bills that various opposition parties were against. Although the Knesset embarked on a 39-day spring break after this session, there would be two special sessions called during the recess.

 

Non-Bills Summary

  • Environment Minister Erdan (Likud) and Deputy Health      Minister Litzman (U.T.J.) answered urgent queries to start the session.
  • House Committee Chairman Levin (Likud) announced the      rotation of MKs in a joint subcommittee. He added that MK Itzik (Kadima) will      replace MK Tibi (R.T.) in the Finance Committee. The changes were approved      29-4. He also announced a long list of disputed bills and which committees      will be discussing them.
  • Industry and Trade Minister Simhon (Independence)      announced the government is withdrawing a bill that it placed on the      Knesset’s table for discussion.
  • MK Shama announced the Interior Committee’s request      to correct a technical issue in a bill. It was approved 11-0.

 

Bills Summary

Ethiopian Jewry Heritage Center Bill

Immigration, Absorption and Diaspora Affairs Committee Chairman Danon (Likud) explained the original bill would create an Ethiopian Jewry Heritage Center and would focus on archiving and educational programing. He said the center would cost between five and seven million shekels annually and the funding would begin in January 2013. He thanked his co-sponsors.

MK Orlev (J.H.) said he was proud to be one of the many co-sponsors of the bill. He stated that the 5-7 million shekels is nothing and the government should have funded it more. He praised the Ethiopian heritage and expressed his support for the Ethiopian community. He called this a national day of celebration for Ethiopian Jews.

MK Molla (Kadima) expressed his excitement for what he called his most important bill. He said that education is needed to prove to all the doubters that Ethiopian Jews are indeed Jewish. He went on to thank a long list of people who have helped him advance this bill over the course of the last two terms.

The bill passed its second reading 10-0.

The bill passed its third reading 9-0.

Amendment to the Telecommunications and Broadcasting Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama (Likud) explained the amendment would increase competition among the cell phone companies by prohibiting cancellation fees and fines for a cell phone customer who changes service providers. He regretted that this bill will not apply to contracts signed before November 1, 2011. He added that the bill will prohibit false advertisement of cell phone companies such as deals that say the service is 0 NIS when the device costs them thousands of shekels and the customer is unaware. He said this bill will ensure that cell phone devices and cell phone service will be completely separated by January 1, 2013.

The bill passed its second reading 10-0.

The bill passed its third reading 11-0.

Amendment to the Parties Bill

House Committee Chairman Levin (Likud) explained the amendment would require a person who is not a member of an existing party and announces his intention to run for the Knesset to register in the official Party Registry before he raises more than NIS 80,000. He said that in the interest of transparency all parties should follow the same rules to prevent unknown private interests from buying a political party by funding it under the radar and. He said that each new party would have to follow every campaign and election rule from the moment they register their party. He thanked MK Khenin for helping him update the bill considerably from the original version with helpful comments.

MK Khenin (Hadash) agreed that transparency is important and needed in the election process. He announced that his objection to this bill is because it is a personal bill directed at Yair Lapid and because it changes the rules of the game in the middle by having several retroactive clauses. He confessed he would have lifted all of his objections if this bill would take affect after the next elections and not before them. He added that this bill might prevent the participation of certain elements within the political process or reduce voter turnout and that is something he opposes.

MK Schneller (Kadima) expressed his support for the purpose of the bill he co-sponsored. He said that equality among the parties is necessary to increase participation in elections. He said that transparency is needed for the public to have trust. He said if the public knew which private interests were running which politicians it might not necessarily change their minds. He confessed that he will not vote for the bill because his party has decided to oppose it.

MK Zahalka (Balad) said hard cases make bad laws. He noted that there have been 18 Knesset elections without this law and this bill is just an obstacle to place in the way of Yair Lapid.

Chairman Levin stressed that this bill does not apply to someone who has not raised money for an election campaign. He stated the problem is more with unknown private interests and the bill does not target an individual’s own finances.

The bill’s paragraphs passed their second readings 33-9-2, 32-12-1 and 33-12-1.

The objections were defeated 9-35-1 and 10-35-1.

The bill passed its third reading 32-13-1.

Amendment to the Higher Education Bill

MK Pinyan (Likud) explained the amendment would require a fee for submitting requests to the Higher Education Council.

The bill passed its second reading 26-8.

The bill passed its third reading 24-6.

Temporary Amendment to the Value Added Tax Bill

Funds Committee Chairman Gafni (U.T.J.) explained the temporary amendment would exempt businesses with a turnover of less than NIS 1,950,000 and six or fewer employees from paying VAT until their product is sold. He said the current system of requiring a small business to pay VAT on a product that might not sell is unacceptable. He said this bill will only take effect in 2017.

Finance Committee Chairman Shama stressed that this temporary amendment must become a permanent amendment and must start in 2013.

Chairman Gafni agreed with Shama and expressed hope that the Finance Minister agrees. He said this will be one of the most important bills that his committee has passed.

The bill passed its second reading 14-0.

The bill passed its third reading 15-0.

Amendment to the Civil Service Bill

Labor, Welfare and Health Committee Chairman Katz (Likud) explained the amendment would update the pensions of policemen and prison servicemen to match the military and the other areas of the defense establishment. He added there would be various retroactive adjustments from 2008 that will be paid by 2018. He said he was proud of this and each one of his committee’s 105 bills that passed their third reading.

The bill passed its second reading 13-0.

The bill passed its third reading 12-0.

Amendment to the Victims of Nazi Persecution Bill

Funds Committee Chairman Gafni explained the amendment would update the terminology in the bill to reflect politically correct terms in order to avoid insulting victims of Nazi persecution with outdated 1950’s terminology.

The bill passed its second reading 8-0.

The bill passed its third reading 5-0.

Amendment to the Social Security Bill

Funds Committee Chairman Gafni explained the amendment would grant the same elderly pensions benefits to widows born before 1931 as those born after 1931. He said the 6,200 women who previously were prohibited from receiving the same benefits will now be able to, and 87 of them will receive additional benefits. He said that he added a chapter at the last minute that will help increase funding for babies born prematurely. He expressed pride in his committee’s 110 bills that were turned into law.

The bill passed its second reading 9-0.

The bill passed its third reading 8-0.

Amendment to the Labor Courts Bill

MK Herzog (Labor) explained the amendment would change the methodology of appointing Labor Court officials to include affirmative action and new qualifications. He added that the bill would also change the way the Labor Court functions and operates by presenting a big upgrade from the current rules and regulations.

MK Maklev (U.T.J.) said this is a monster bill and it has many issues, including the exemption of disabled workers from being able to use the Labor Court. He said that he will propose a bill that fixes the disabled workers issues.

MK Michaeli (Shas) added his concerns for the disabled workers community.

The bill passed its second reading 6-0.

The bill passed its third reading 5-0.

Temporary Amendment Restricting the Use and Registration of Used Car Parts and Actions Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the act of stealing a car and bringing it to the Palestinian Authority to sell it for parts will result in a three year prison sentence. He announced the temporary amendment would become a permanent one if passed.

The bill passed its second reading 3-0.

The bill passed its third reading 3-0.

Amendment to the Traffic Ordinance Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the amendment would limit drivers under the age of 24 in a wide range of areas and prevent their license renewal if they cause serious accidents. He added that the age of a driver’s permit will be lowered to 16 years and 9 months.

The bill passed its second reading 3-0.

The bill passed its third reading 3-0.

 

Distribution of Transmissions via Digital Broadcast Stations Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the bill would widen the package of the DTT program from the 5 most basic channels to 18 channels. He said the DTT program of buying a one-time television antenna device without the need for monthly subscription charges has been a success and should grow with the result of this bill. He said five of the channels will be in High Definition and stressed that the price of the DTT device will not be raised as a result of this bill. He revealed that so far 350,000 DTT devices have been sold nationally.

Communications Minister Kahlon (Likud) said there is a difference of opinion in terms of which channels will be included in the DTT upgrade.

Chairman Shama stated the bill would cost over 20 million shekels annually and would take effect gradually until 2014. He called on the Knesset to oppose all of the Finance Minister’s objections to the bill but to support Kahlon’s objection.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) announced that he was withdrawing his ministry’s various objections.

The bills paragraphs passed their second readings 11-0, 14-0 and 15-0.

Kahlon’s objection was accepted 14-0.

The bill passed its third reading 16-0.

Communications Minister Kahlon said that 2.5 million people use either cable or satellite. He said that by increasing the DTT to 18 channels the competition on the cable and satellite providers will increase, leading to a reduction in prices. He thanked a long list of people who helped make this new law a reality.

Firefighting and Rescue National Authority Bill

Homeland Security Minister Aharonovitch (Y.B.) explained that the original bill would finalize the government reform of the firefighting services and transfer the authority from the Interior Ministry to the Homeland Security Ministry. He said the new rules and regulations will present an upgrade for Israel’s firefighting services to match the country’s 21st century needs without hurting the firefighters’ pay checks.

MK Herzog praised the bill that he said will reduce bureaucracy while upgrading the services the firefighters provide. He expressed his disappointment with the workers’ rights to strike and other labor rights that are excluded from this bill. He stated his party will ensure these issues are resolved in committee.

MK Yachimovich (Labor) called the Carmel fire one of the most dramatic moments in Israel’s history that uncovered the weaknesses of the state’s firefighting services. She accused the government of causing those weaknesses by privatizing some of the firefighting services, resulting in the disaster. She expressed satisfaction that the government has agreed to turn back to a Firefighting Authority but warned that labor rights must be protected. She said the current version of the bill that hurts the firefighters’ union is unacceptable. She explained that her party will abstain from the vote on this bill because of the pluses and minuses of the bill. She stated the Labor Party will vote for the final version of the bill if these issues are resolved. She stressed that Aharonovitch could not convince her otherwise.

MK Braverman (Labor) praised Aharonovitch for his attempt to finalize the reform. He recalled Aharonovitch’s positive term as the Police Chief of the south while he was serving as President of Ben Gurion’s University. He agreed that his colleague Yachimovich had good points. He expressed confidence this bill will address the concerns of both Aharonovitch and Yachimovich.

MK Azoulay (Shas) said that it is unfortunate that the only reason this reform was advanced was the Carmel fire and slammed the Finance Minister for his role in holding up the bill this long. He expressed support for the bill in its entirety, although he said he is leaving room for additional changes.

MK Sheetrit (Kadima) stated that when he was Interior Minister in Olmert’s administration he finalized the draft of the reform bill that is being offered today. He defended the bill, stressing that a firefighter’s job is too important to allow them to strike, and disbanding the unions in order to create a single firefighting union will save the country millions of shekels. He expressed regret that Olmert’s administration fell before he had a chance to advance this bill.

MK Khenin said that the Carmel fire taught us that the firefighting force in Israel is underfunded and this bill has many benefits in that regard. He said the bill is missing the necessary functions to protect the labor rights of the firefighting force. He said that it is undemocratic to take away their right to strike.

MK Eichler (U.T.J.) said that the Carmel fire was a disaster, but that day’s funeral of the Toulouse victims is another fire that should be recognized. He eulogized Rabbi Sheinberg, who passed away at the age of 102.

MK Zeev (Shas) slammed the MKs for connecting the Carmel fire and the firefighting reform. He stressed that these two issues are separate and this reform will not save a bus of prison service people in the future. He slammed the State Comptroller for blaming people for the Carmel fire for political reasons. He noted that he has been fighting for this reform since 2002 and he is proud to see this bill finally being advanced. He asked why the firefighters are allowed to use 16 year olds to put out fires when the government decides it is raising the age of marriage to 18.

Homeland Security Minister Aharonovitch said that he worked on this bill for a long time and asked that the Knesset approve it. He said that the State Comptroller will answer the Carmel fire questions. He said that the labor rights of the firefighters will not be harmed and that the union is supporting this bill. He said there will be changes made in committee and those opposing the bill will be doing the firefighting union a disservice.

The bill passed its first reading 25-0 and was sent to the Interior Committee. Two Labor MKs were present but did not vote.

Amendment to the Treatment of Mental Patients Bill

Justice Minister Neeman explained the amendment would attempt to prevent mental patients who commit murder from being released after they make a full mental recovery by creating a committee that will discuss each case before making a decision on releasing the patient. He said the committee will also discuss the terms of their imprisonment and their vacation time.

MK Eichler said the problem with incitement is that every community has mentally unstable people who take action as a result of the incitement. He called for treating those who cause incitement, not just those who answer the call.

MK Sheetrit supported the bill and recalled his struggle with this issue while he was Justice Minister. He said the current situation of mentally unstable people who get well and are released after two or three years in an asylum without doing any time in prison is unacceptable. He told the judges to stop having mercy on murderers in general and to stop with these ridiculous murder sentences of five years.

MK Zeev slammed the courts’ willingness to accept most murderers claims that they were insane while committing the murder. He blasted the lawyers for preparing the defendants for their insanity pleas. He said that a punishment of 15 years in prison or an asylum will prevent murder because jail or asylum sentences of two to three years is not preventing murder cases and almost encourages them.

The bill passed its first reading 10-0 and was sent to the Health Committee.

Amendment to the Companies Bill

Justice Minister Neeman explained the amendment would require the appointment of an expert to examine the debt settlement of company bonds in government companies. He said this measure will help the financial stability of these government companies and will allow the control of the bonds to move from shareholder to shareholder a lot more easily. He explained that the expert will be heavily regulated in terms of what is examined and what is disclosed.

MK Ben Ari (N.U.) decided to talk about the government lottery company and the wasteful spending of their marketing department. He slammed their policy of targeting the lower income brackets. He called on neutering them and preventing them from prying on innocent blue collar workers. He revealed that he has a bill that will prohibit such marketing.

MK Sheetrit slammed the Knesset for suddenly adding new bills to the day’s agenda. He said it is unfair to add new bills when most of the MKs have gone home. Deputy Speaker Levi Abukasis (Y.B.) supported the Knesset’s decision.

MK Eichler noted that in the United States government companies must give 25% to charitable organizations, while in Israel there is no such obligation. He called on the Israeli people to give charity to the poor so they can celebrate the Passover holiday.

MK Sheetrit expressed support for the bill but stressed that it will not go far enough. He said that the haircuts the investors enjoy will not be affected by the deal. He decided that in the end he will oppose the bill. He slammed the connections between investors and primary owners.

MK Zeev disagreed with Sheetrit’s assertion that this bill helps the tycoons. He stressed there is a difference between business investors and business owners and they should be treated differently. Zeev and Sheetrit got into a biblical argument on what the commentator Rashi said on a verse that deals with rich people.

The bill passed its first reading 4-1 and was sent to the Justice Committee.

Amendment to the Companies Bill

Justice Minister Neeman explained the amendment would change the terms of office and employment in public companies, as well as various updates with their bonds and shareholding regulations. He said it is important to regulate how people are elected to the directorate and how the directorate functions, as well as the responsibilities and authority of the C.E.O.

MK Sheetrit said this is another complicated issue that can be resolved a lot more easily with simple ceilings on government company salaries and regulations on dividends. He slammed the Kupot Gemel managers who have not raised any money for the public in six years and have made millions for themselves from public funds.

MK Yachimovich called the bill ridiculous and without any teeth. She wondered what took Neeman two years of discussions to bring this ridiculous bill in place of her far-reaching bill. She slammed Rami Levy for harming his workers’ rights and called him a dictator. She announced a long list of C.E.O.s who she claimed harm worker’s rights. She slammed Supersol for firing 600 workers in a second wave of layoffs while the five managers are raking in millions of shekels a year. She said that she will bring her bill back after the recess since Neeman’s is a joke.

MK Sheetrit once again complained that the government was adding additional bills to the agenda without the consent of the opposition. Deputy Speaker Akunis (Likud) told Sheetrit that it isn’t his problem only a handful of opposition MKs decided to stay in the Knesset.

MK Khenin said this is a worrisome bill since it doesn’t meet the needs of the people and doesn’t bring social justice. He slammed the bill that he said has a twisted capitalistic feel. He said the idea that bonuses help encourage the worker to do a better job is disconnected from reality.

MK Zeev said that the opposition is going a little too far with their assertions and refuse to recognize the positive aspects of the bill. He noted conflict of interest issues exist everywhere including the Knesset who appoints their own State Comptroller. He told the opposition that they should support these changes and add certain things in the committee or the next amendment. He agreed that there is a lot of corruption but stressed this is a step forward.

The bill passed its first reading 12-3 and was sent to the Justice Committee.

Amendment to the Consumer Protection Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the amendment would prevent the expiration date on food stamps within five years. He added that the amendment would also prevent different amounts on the food stamps based on the different shopping outlets.

The bill passed its first reading 6-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Consolidation of Telephone Emergency Centers Bill

MK Maklev (U.T.J.) explained the original bill would consolidate the telephone emergency centers of the police, ambulances and firefighters into a single telephone emergency center. He said the exact number will be discussed in committee and the American 911 and European 112 are options on the table.

MK Shama called on the government to use both 911 and 112, and send the caller to the same emergency center. He stressed the current numbers of 100, 101 and 102 are still being used.

The bill passed its first reading 8-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Amendment to the Planning and Building Bill

House Committee Chairman Levin explained the amendment would allow the transfer of surplus taxes of infrastructure programs to a dedicated fund for education improvement. He said this will encourage the local municipalities to streamline their programs by promising them the change for their educational programs. He noted that the programs will not spend more than 75 shekels on each student which is meant to encourage the local municipalities to include all children in these programs. He thanked the Kiryat Uno Mayor for bringing this idea to his attention.

MK Zeev said this bill limits the municipality to a 10% ceiling and excludes funding anything that isn’t education. He blasted the bill and said the municipalities aren’t doing their job if they have extra change. He said that this is an illogical bill, but he will support it.

MK Ben Ari congratulated the Likud government on their three year anniversary. He slammed the government for opposing MK Yaakov Katz’s natural growth bill that would have allowed building in his settlement of Karnei Shomron. He said that Minister Begin wasn’t telling the truth when he said that he is attending the red ribbon event at the newest Karnei Shomron building site. He said there are around 2,000 families that total 7,200-7,300 residents in his settlement. He said that there are 110-120 couples who get married every year in Karnei Shomron and there haven’t been any new programs for ten years in the settlement aside from the 42 units that were approved this year. He slammed the Likud for freezing the settlements in Judea and Samaria. He accused the Likud of planning on destroying Judea and Samaria just like they destroyed Yamit and Gush Katif.

The bill passed its first reading 9-0 and was sent to the Education Committee.

Amendment to the Mines Ordinance Bill

MK Ariel (N.U.) explained the amendment would prohibit receiving or purchasing materials that were dug from a quarry without a license. He revealed that people who watch the Knesset Channel and send him ideas for laws have been rewarded with many of the ideas becoming law and this is another one. He announced the punishment would be a maximum jail sentence of six months and a NIS 75,000 fine, which would be doubled if it is a company and not an individual. He said that those who break this law will meet an increased presence of relevant government officials in the known areas. He concluded by wishing a Happy Passover to the MKs, Knesset workers and all of the Jewish people in Israel.

MK Ben Ari slammed those who illegally removed Israeli mountains, mostly in Judea and Samaria. He asked Ariel to add to the bill the prevention of exporting quarry materials by land and by sea.

MK Levin said this is an important bill and he supports it 100%. He said it is an economic and environmental bill. He slammed the government for the selected enforcement of laws in Judea and Samaria. He expressed hope they will enforce this law in Judea and Samaria. He praised those who decide to propose bills to MKs and agreed with Ariel that there should be more citizens who do so.

MK Zeev slammed the Bedouins for stealing Israel’s precious resources, such as sand, and selling it to our enemies. He slammed the government for not doing more in Judea and Samaria’s Area C. He praised the bill and called on Israel to do more to enforce it.

The bill passed its first reading 11-0 with one MK abstaining and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Amendment to the Broadcasting Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama mocked the MK who told him that he would run down the Castel naked if this bill ever got passed. He explained this bill would complete the reform in the public broadcasting sector and looks drastically different from the first version of the bill. He took pride in the checks and balances that take the politics out of public broadcasting. He said that all promises were kept and this will bill will provide Israelis with a real service that will make them proud to pay the television tax. He said that there will be hundreds of layoffs and there will be many buildings sold. He added that former MK Oron would be proud of this bill.

MK Eichler said that 3% of the population has 97% of the airtime and the point of the reform was to put an end to that. He said if Reka got nine million shekels then Moreshet deserves three million shekels. He added that the requirement of university for employees should be removed. He said there are a lot of issues with the 40 paragraphs of the bill and some of them should be changed. He agreed to remove his four objections when Shama told him that most of his concerns were resolved in the fine print. Eichler concluded that public broadcasting should reflect all colors of Israeli society.

MK Khenin said that he is in a problematic situation as the lone opposition MK in the room and can’t present the objections from Meretz and the other opposition MKs because they chose to go home early. He went on to praise the public broadcasting ideals and slammed the reform that he said does not remove politics from public broadcasting. He said that it is dangerous to allow the Prime Minister to interfere with public broadcasting and the reform doesn’t touch that. He slammed the exclusion of Arabs from most aspects of the reform. He concluded that the exclusion of Israeli original programming in the reform is also troublesome.

The bill passed its second reading 10-1.

The bill passed its third reading 10-1.

Temporary Amendment to the Electricity Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the amendment would subsidize electricity for the poor with a budget of 80 million shekels annually. He slammed the opposition MKs who complain about electricity prices all year to the coalition but are absent from supporting a bill that subsidizes electricity for the poorest Israelis. He announced that around 80,000-100,000 families will receive a 50% subsidy, which will take effect in January 2013.

The bill’s paragraphs passed their second reading 8-0, 8-1 and 9-0.

Finance Minister Steinitz’s sole objection was defeated 0-10 and 1-8.

The bill passed its third reading 11-0 and 10-0.

There were two sets of voting due to Deputy Speaker Akunis’s mistake.

Amendment to the Telecommunications and Broadcasting Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the amendment would open up the information service license to other numbers besides 144 and to other companies. He called this a market driven bill that will lead to better service.

The bill passed its first reading 7-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Amendment to the Consumer Protection Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the amendment would allow a consumer to cancel a service ahead of time in return for a 5% penalty, NIS 100, a full cash refund or a coupon for using that service another time, depending on the circumstances of the deal.

The bill passed its second reading 9-0.

The bill passed its third reading 8-0.

Amendment to the Consumer Protection Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama explained the amendment would require companies that have ongoing monthly transactions to send a statement of yearly transactions in March to the consumer. He noted that this will prevent companies from charging consumers for services that are over a year old.

The bill passed its second reading 11-0.

The bill passed its third reading 11-0.

MK Maklev thanked the Knesset for approving his bill and called it an amazing consumer protection bill.

Speaker Rivlin announced that between May 14 and May 16 the election for the State Comptroller will take place. He noted that 10 MKs can submit the candidacy of a non-political figure for the election. He went on to thank all of his assistants and the various Knesset workers, employees, security detail and others for an amazing term. He wished everyone a Happy Passover and told the MKs he would see them on April 30 at 4 PM. He closed the winter session.

This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s March 21, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01693512.doc

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Knesset Winter Session 2011/2012 Day 58: Druze and Chief Rabbis

Filed under: Daily Updates, Knesset — 1 Comment
March 19, 2012

The Knesset’s Tuesday session lasted about two and a half hours. Eight bills were discussed. One bill became law after passing its third reading, and seven bills were advanced after passing their first readings. The new law expands Druze representation in public service. An interesting bill advanced allows the Israeli Chief Rabbi to run for another term.

 

Non-Bills Summary

* 12 MKs gave speeches during the one minute speech segment that opened the day. National Science Day was recognized by most of the speakers.

* A motion marking National Science Day was discussed by Science and Technology Minister Hershkowitz (J.H.) and three MKs.

* House Committee Chairman Levin (Likud) announced which disputed bills would be discussed in which committees. The Knesset approved the decisions 10-0.

* Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) answered a query at the end of the session.

Bills Summary

Amendment to the Expanding Druze Community Representation in the Public Service Bill

Justice, Law and Constitution Committee Chairman Rotem (Y.B.) explained the amendment would require expanding the Druze community’s representation in the public sector as well as in municipalities where they make up 10% or more of the population. He said Israelis owe a lot to the Druze and this bill is a way to give back to them.

MK Amar (Y.B.) thanked Rotem for helping him advance his bill that helps his Druze community. He also thanked his party, Yisrael Beitenu, for having his back and the Druze’s back.

MK Levin (Likud) thanked his co-sponsor Amar and Chairman Rotem for pushing through this bill that pays back the country’s dues to the Druze. He said the Druze deserve an identity that is separate from the Arab population.

The bill passed its second reading 9-0.

The bill passed its third reading 9-0.

Amendment to the Handicap Parking Bill

MK Gilon (Meretz) announced that 5,100 parking tickets were given to handicap licensed cars that were following the laws, as opposed to 6,100 parking tickets to violators of handicap parking laws. He said his amendment would prohibit parking tickets for handicapped licensed people who are not in violation of handicap parking laws.

The bill passed its first reading 5-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Amendment to the Penal Code Bill

MK Shai (Kadima) explained the amendment would extend the prohibition of doctors having sex with a patient to therapists and alternative medicine practioners as well. He said it is unacceptable that psychologists, social workers and alternative doctors are allowed to use their position to sleep with patients with no punishment.

MK Ben Ari (N.U.) said that apparently there are no nationalistic crimes or terror in Israel. He accused Homeland Security Minister Aharonovitch (Y.B.) of instructing his officers to coach victims of nationalistic crimes on how to leave out certain parts of their testimony. He gave a few examples. He suggested the motives are that the government doesn’t want to give out the welfare payments nationalistic victims are entitled to but which regular victims do not receive.

MK Levin praised the bill. He said criminologists and polygraph workers should also be regulated, and every occupation should have set boundaries.

The bill passed its first reading 9-0 and was sent to the Justice Committee.

Amendment to the Supervision of Financial Services Bill

Interior and Environment Committee Chairman Cohen (Shas) explained the amendment would lower the percentage of management fees on provident funds from 2% to 1.05%.

MK Ben Ari supported the bill. He went on to say he is an unhappy customer of the security and defense services because there are too many rockets hitting Israel and because of the public relations briefs that are unbearable. He slammed former Prime Minister Olmert for telling the south that they should get used to occasional rockets falling in their backyards like a light shower of rain. He said he is embarrassed the Knesset isn’t protecting the south and isn’t confessing its mistake of supporting the disengagement.

The bill passed its first reading 10-0 and was sent to the Funds Committee.

Amendment to the Israel Lands Authority Bill

MK Khenin (Hadash) explained the amendment would ensure transparency in the land authority by forcing them to advertise their decisions on their website. He said over the last eight years only 77 of the land authority’s 2,655 decisions were released to the public. He said that the public wants to privatize the authority because it isn’t acting like a public company, which must have transparency. He said when it comes to tax money there must be a trail of what is being done with that money and how those decisions are made. He said this bill will strengthen the idea of a strong central government.

MK Ben Ari blasted the police for prohibiting his visit to Nazareth, where he was planning to protest in front of the Balad offices. He said Nazareth deserves equality- equality in income tax, equality in VAT and equality in police enforcement.

MK Zeev (Shas) supported the bill and transparency. He went on to criticize former minister Ben-Eliezer (Labor), who he said routinely made corrupt decisions as the minister in charge of the land authority and didn’t publish anything.

The bill passed its first reading 6-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Amendment to the Checks without Cover Bill

MK Shemtov (Y.B.) explained the amendment would require the bank to inform customers of all problems on an existing account before they join it. She said there is no reason to give a full history of the bank account but a new person joining an account should know what expenses or penalties he will now be responsible for. She said the bank has an interest not to warn the new customer because they can force him to pay a lot of money if he has no clue what he is walking into.

The bill passed its first reading 10-0 and was sent to the Justice Committee.

Amendment to the Chief Rabbinate of Israel Bill

MK Pinyan (Likud) explained the amendment would allow a Rabbi to run for re-election as Chief Rabbi of Israel. He said that for political reasons a term limit of ten years was placed on the position of Chief Rabbi of Israel and it is time that term limit is repealed.

MK Zeev recalled the political trick that forced Rabbi Ovadia Yosef out of the Chief Rabbi of Israel chair. He told them that it was that decision 30 years ago that led to Rabbi Yosef creating Shas with him. He suggested that any further attempt by politicians to interfere with Rabbis will lead to an increase in political support for those Rabbis.

The bill passed its first reading 8-0 and was sent to the Justice Committee.

Amendment to the Former Captives’ Payment Bill

Coalition Chairman Elkin (Likud) explained the amendment would increase the pension for former captives over 80 years old by NIS 1,200 a month. He said a few hundred people would benefit from this bill.

MK Eldad (N.U.) said it is a worthy bill, and, as a son of a former captive, he finds it to be a very important ideal to support the captives in the last years of their lives.

The bill passed its first reading 10-0 and was sent to the Justice
Committee.

________________________________________________________________

This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s March 13, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01506712.doc

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Knesset Winter Session 2011/2012 Day 57: Assisting Illegals, Female Draft Dodgers, Orphan Welfare Bills Passed

Filed under: Daily Updates, Knesset — Leave a comment
March 18, 2012

The Knesset’s Monday session lasted about five and a half hours. 16 bills were discussed. Seven bills became law after passing their third readings, and nine bills were advanced after passing their first readings. The Jewish opposition parties of Kadima, Labor, National Union and Meretz decided not to bring no-confidence motions in order to support the government during the escalation of rocket attacks on Israeli soil. The 16-bill day was just another sign that this is the second to last week before the spring recess. The Knesset enjoyed an unusually long five day weekend after the previous Wednesday session was cancelled for the Jewish holiday of Purim. The day had some of the most interesting bills of the session. Among the new laws are prohibitions on assisting illegals, preventing women from draft dodging and a one-time NIS 100,000 welfare payment to orphans who lost a parent from a terrorist attack or during the parent’s army service.

 

Non-Bills Summary

* Hadash, Ra’am-Ta’al and Balad’s joint no-confidence motion titled ‘The escalation in South’ was defeated 4-40 with 76 MKs not present.

* House Committee Chairman Levin (Likud) announced MK Tibi (R.T.) will replace MK Itzik (Kadima) in the Finance Committee.

* House Committee Chairman Levin announced which disputed bills would be discussed in which committees.

* Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) announced the government’s transfer of certain powers from his ministry to Justice Minister Neeman. The Knesset approved the transfer 11-0.

* Communications Minister Kahlon (Likud) announced the government’s transfer of certain powers from his ministry to Minister Meridor (Likud). The Knesset approved the transfer 14-0.

* Labor and Welfare Minister Kahlon answered six queries at the end of the session.

Bills Summary

Amendment to the Illegal Residence Bill

Interior Committee Chairman Cohen (Shas) explained the current temporary amendment that prohibits assistance to ilegals in terms of hiring, transporting or providing sleeping accommodations for them would become a permanent amendment. He said that certain sections would remain as temporary amendments, mostly in regards to taxi drivers who transport illegals. He called on the Knesset to defeat Hadash’s objections to the bill.

MK Khenin (Hadash) said hard cases make bad law. He said these laws go too far and turn every illegal into a criminal and turn those who help them into criminals. He said that this bill forces taxi drivers to racially profile their passengers. He called the bill absurd and said it gives cab drivers the powers of a policeman or a soldier. He called it a racist bill that makes a cab driver’s job so much harder. He said these were temporary provisions because Israel dreamed of peace but turning these provisions into a permanent law shows that Israel has given up on that dream.

MK Barakeh (Hadash) called the bill crazy. He said that there is a high level of security in Israel and the Palestinians act as their policemen in the territories so there is really no need for this bill. He said the foundation of logic for this law is seriously flawed. He called this bill another Israeli attempt to turn its public into racists and tell the Arabs who is boss. He said there is not one documented case of a terrorist who entered a cab told the driver to start meter and blew himself up.

MK Eldad (N.U.) said there are those who look at Israel as a Jewish safe house and that led to an ideology that we can give away parts of the safe house in order to achieve peace. He said the land for peace didn’t work, so it led to land for demographics. He said those who tell us we must give away land because of the demographic problem and then tell us we must in the name of liberalism and human rights allow illegals to live in our land are hypocrites. He said the true motive of these liberals is to give up on Zionism and Judaism and allow Arabs and Sudanese to raise families here. He called on the liberal politicians to stop holding both sides of the stick and decide if they had to choose between their hatred of the Jewish people and their hatred of the Jewish state which one they would give up on.

MK Ben Ari (N.U.) read a Ma’ariv columnist piece where the columnist went to a joint Israeli Jewish-Arab event. She described her shock as they told her that the Jews stole their land and conquered their nation. Ben Ari said that these Arabs want to destroy us, and there are Jews who cooperate with them. He said the safe house argument is passé, and the next generation is starting to question that motive. He said Zionism doesn’t start from Tel Chai, it started with Abraham in the Torah. He called on the government to raise children in the right way. He said the true answer is that this is our land and no one else’s land.

The bills paragraphs passed their second readings 37-7, 35-7 and 34-8.

The objections were defeated 8-35, 8-35 and 8-33.

The bill passed its third reading 34-8.

Amendment to the Parties Bill

House Committee Chairman Levin (Likud) explained his amendment would require transparency, accounting and limitations on the income and expenditure of politicians before their party’s registration. He thanked MK Schneller for co-sponsoring his bill. He said that fundraising without transparency by using a technical loophole of not registering your party until you have the money is unacceptable. He slammed Yair Lapid for attempting to use these loopholes and said this must be stopped as soon as possible. He blasted Yair Lapid for using his job as a news anchor to lead a political campaign and charged he only resigned because of a different bill that forced him to do so. He asked how someone can campaign across the country without revealing his donors, when every other person or party reveals his. He said the public deserves to know who is sending Lapid to the Knesset and what it is they want him to do. He said everyone should be equal in the political playing field, and this bill will enable that.

MK Molla (Kadima) said that the current electoral system has bigger problems, and this is a minor issue. He said the current system must be changed from its foundation, and this approach of fixing a minor thing is not worth our time. He slammed the ultra-orthodox parties for their exclusion of female representatives.

MK Khenin repeated that hard cases make bad law. He complemented Levin for confessing it is a personal bill aimed at Yair Lapid. He said that although he disagrees with Lapid politically, he is for transparency and thinks that Lapid’s basic rights should be free. He said the real transparency should be regulating or prohibiting the free daily newspaper Yisrael Hayom that is funded by Netanyahu’s friend [Sheldon Adelson]. He expressed his opposition to the bill.

MK Schneller (Kadima) expressed his solidarity with the citizens in the south who are under rocket fire. He said every party has their media tools and singling out the Likud is an issue in the same vain as that laid out in Molla’s speech about needing a bigger reform. He said that Israelis want transparency and are sick of the connection between big money interests and politicians. He added that Israelis want equality and separation of money from politics. He said everyone knows this is a great bill and praised MK Levin for coming up with the idea.

The bill passed its first reading 29-4 and was sent to the House Committee.

Amendment to the Social Security Bill

Justice, Law and Constitution Committee Chairman Rotem (Y.B.) explained the amendment would reduce a citizen’s pension by 50% if they commit a crime with nationalistic motives or have a connection to terrorist activity. He said that he wanted to eliminate the pension completely, but the government decided to agree only to a 50% reduction in order not to punish the family of the terrorist.

MK Barakeh said that this bill is not worthy at all. He said this bill punishes the spouse and children who didn’t do anything or commit any crime. He asked why terrorists’ families are being punished but rapists’ and drug dealers’ families are not. He called Rotem a racist.

MK Zahalka (Balad) said this is a bad bill that contradicts the foundation of law and equality. He said that it is not acceptable to give an additional punishment after the criminal receives the first punishment from the court of law. He said changing the punishment in the middle of serving that punishment is not acceptable. He said Rotem and Yisrael Beitenu are against the Arabs and are trying to use their position to promote and pass their racist laws. He said this collective punishment should be opposed and defeated.

MK Zeev (Shas) recalled the Supreme Court decision that destroying a terrorist’s house is legal and will make terrorists think twice before engaging in such conduct. He said this is just another step in that direction. He reminded Zahalka that the United States has kept prisoners in Guantanamo Bay without trial for a decade, so he should be happy Israel has not gone that far.

The bill passed its first reading 24-5 and was sent to the Welfare Committee.

Temporary Amendment to the Security Service Bill

Coalition Chairman Elkin (Likud) announced that women who eat kosher at home and keep the Sabbath may be exempted from military service, but many secular women have decided to use that loophole in order to get out of serving in the army. He explained this temporary amendment would present the army tools in figuring out which women are tricking the system in order to draft them into the army. He blasted the hundreds of secular women who use this loophole each year and told them that it will be closed very soon. He said this is a balanced bill that will allow religious women to still receive exemptions.

MK Herzog (Labor) said this is a big breakthrough in the struggle for equality in the burden of service. He said it is time to take the fakers and put them back into the army. He said that this temporary amendment is for three years and afterwards it will need to be turned into a permanent bill.

MK Gafni (U.T.J.) opposed the bill said there is no consensus on the bill. He said his party and the Rabbis are against forcing any woman to serve in the army. He said that he isn’t out to protect liars, but women should not be part of the mandatory draft and should only be allowed in the army if they volunteer. He called on his party’s deputy ministers to vote against this bill and follow their ideology. He noted that this was a bill that Kadima wrote in the previous term and it is now the Likud who decided to advance it. He warned the coalition that he and his party are not in the Likud’s pocket and they will seriously consider joining forces with the left after the next elections. He revealed that former Prime Minister Sharon told him that he would leave the Likud to form a new party before the other MKs knew and Gafni told him not to do it. He said that it was a mistake to tell Sharon not to leave the Likud and he is happy that Sharon didn’t listen to him. He concluded that Likud is not grateful for anything his party has sacrificed for them.

MK Eldad said that it is mitzvah [good deed] for everyone to serve in the army, and it is not a mitzvah to lie.

The bill passed its second reading 19-5.

The bill passed its third reading 21-5.

Amendment to the Banking Bill

Funds Committee Chairman Gafni explained the amendment would change the make-up of the directorship of banks as well as increase government supervision on all bank share holders that own over 1%. He said there are a few other minor changes that update basic bank regulations. He said that this bill was advanced with compromises made by the bank owners and the government, and the result is a very balanced bill. He said the most important change in this bill is allowing the government to sell off its shares of Bank Leumi.

The bill passed its second reading 15-0.

The bill passed its third reading 14-0.

Amendment to the Higher Education Bill

Education Minister Sa’ar (Likud) stated there are eight universities and 67 recognized higher education colleges in Israel. He said this amendment would allow the ministry to fund recognized higher education facilities that were not previously funded.

The bill passed its first reading 9-0 and was sent to the Education Committee.

Amendment to the Electricity Bill

Tourism Minister Misezhnikov (Y.B.) explained the amendment would transfer certain responsibilities of controlling the national electric company from the Finance Minister to the Energy and Water Minister.

The bill passed its first reading 11-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Temporary Amendment to the Engineers and Architects Bill

Minister Misezhnikov stated there are over 9,000 engineers and architects in Israel and the amendment would change their annual fees from a one year license to a three year license. He said this would be a temporary amendment for three years and the government would decide if they want to make the change permanent at that time.

The bill passed its first reading 12-0 and was sent to the Labor Committee.

Amendment to the Prison Ordinance Bill

Homeland Security Minister Aharonovitch (Y.B.) explained the amendment would allow him to limit a prisoner’s meeting with lawyers. He noted that certain security prisoners use these lawyer visits to engage in terrorist activity, and certain prisoners have dozens of lawyer visits a year even if their case is closed. He said that there are terrorists who take advantage of this loophole, and it must be closed.

MK Zeev expressed support for the bill as long as it only applies to terrorists. Aharonovitch responded that it will only be used for terrorists, mobsters and drug dealers. Zeev agreed to support the bill.

The bill passed its first reading 13-0 and was sent to the Interior Committee.

Amendment to the Civil Service Bill

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) explained the amendment would increase the pensions of policemen and prison servicemen by 5%-12% depending on their service length and rank. He said the changes would be retroactive to 2008 and spouses and orphans are eligible to receive the remainder of that pension. He called on the committee to advance this bill as soon as possible.

The bill passed its first reading 12-0 and was sent to the Welfare Committee.

Amendment to the Mail Bill

Communications Minister Kahlon (Likud) explained the amendment would expand the services offered by the postal bank in its 700 branches nationally. He said that expanding the services they offer will utilize more of the potential of the postal bank and its thousands of workers. He said among the new services are financial consultations and insurance sales.

The bill passed its first reading 12-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Amendment to the Welfare Services Bill

Labor, Welfare and Health Committee Chairman Katz (Likud) explained the amendment would change the make-up of the appeals committee for citizens who are seeking social worker services from their local municipality and were denied.

The bill passed its second reading 10-0.

The bill passed its third reading 12-0.

MK Solodkin (Kadima) thanked the Knesset for approving her bill. She thanked Kahlon and Katz, who helped her advance this bill that will help hundreds of citizens a year across the country.

Amendment to the Reserve Soldiers and their Families Pension Payment

Labor, Welfare and Health Committee Chairman Katz explained this would be the 100th bill his committee has passed this term, and all of them have brought social justice to Israel. He said there are many needy people in the country, and they need his committee to pass these laws. He said this particular bill would grant orphans who lost their parent or parents in the army or in a terrorist attack before 1999 a one-time payment of NIS 100,000. He said 240 orphans will be eligible for this payment. He said the NIS 100,000 won’t bring their parent back but will give them justice.

The bill passed its second reading 12-0.

The bill passed its third reading 13-0.

Amendment to the Insurance Contracts Bill

Funds Committee Chairman Gafni explained the amendment would allow a customer who drops his insurance policy to not pay for the mandatory 15 days he is covered by the previous insurance company before he chooses a different one. He said insurance companies shouldn’t charge a fine and ask the customer to pay when he has decided to terminate his service.

The bill passed its second reading 10-0.

The bill passed its third reading 9-0.

Amendment to the Traffic Ordinance Bill

Finance Committee Chairman Shama (Likud) explained the amendment would require private companies that give out company cars without leasing companies to have a safety inspector that deals with traffic accidents and violations. He said that the safety inspector will be liable for certain offenses and will be sanctioned for certain violations. He said that the company will be required to give 24 hour service to their drivers. He said that certain defense establishment vehicles will be exempt from some of the regulations. He said MK Wilf’s objections were far reaching and all but one of them should be defeated. MK Shnaan (Independence) said he will vote against the bill because it doesn’t exclude MKs from placing a sticker that allows drivers to call and complain about their driving.

MK Wilf (Independence) explained her objection would prohibit answering machine menus when the safety inspector is not available. She said that she would remove her other objections to the bill.

The bill’s paragraphs passed its second reading 6-3, 7-1 and 7-1.

Wilf’s objection was passed 8-0.

The bill passed its third reading 6-1.

MK Bielski (Kadima) thanked the Knesset for approving his bill.

Amendment to the Municipalities Ordinance Bill

MK Bielski stated this bill would make his late mother proud and will make proud the residents of Ra’anna who he served as mayor for 17 years. He explained the amendment would change the way the central government distributes money to the strong municipalities and ease their regulations. He thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for personally getting involved and for his position of allowing great municipalities to have independence.

The bill passed its first reading 7-0 and was sent to the Interior Committee.

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This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s March 12, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01487012.doc

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Knesset Winter Session 2011/2012 Day 56: Marriage Age to 18 Advanced, Judea and Samaria Natural Growth Bill Defeated

Filed under: Daily Updates, Knesset — 1 Comment
March 15, 2012

The Knesset’s Tuesday session lasted about six and a hours. 13 bills were discussed. One bill was advanced after passing its first reading, eight were advanced after passing their preliminary readings, three were turned into motions in order to avoid defeat, and one was defeated. Five bills that would raise the legal marriage age in Israel to 18 were advanced. National Union Chairman Katzeleh’s Judea and Samaria Natural Growth Bill was defeated, but not before he aired some behind-the-scenes dirty laundry.

 

Non-Bills Summary

* 13 MKs gave speeches during the one minute speech segment that opened the day.

* Speaker Rivlin, Deputy Minister Gamliel (Likud) and 8 MKs gave speeches marking International Women’s Day.

* Seven motions were discussed on a wide variety of issues and were sent to the Knesset’s committees by the votes 3-1, 8-0, 9-0, 7-0, 5-0, 2-0 and 2-0.

Bills Summary

Amendment to the Marriage Age Bill x5

MK Levin (Likud) explained his amendment would raise the age of marriage from 17 to 18. He said this issue has been a struggle for years and is finally taking off. He said thousands of 16 and 17 year olds marry each year, in most cases they are forced into the marriage, and most of the time it will eventually lead to divorce. He said it is absurd that a 17 year old is allowed to marry but is not allowed to do many other things including buying a house. He said that Jordan and Egypt have already raised the age of marriage to 18. He said that certain 16 and 17 year olds will be allowed to marry under his bill, but only if the court approves the marriage after hearing both sides. He said this is a just bill and must be passed as soon as possible.

MK Zuaretz (Kadima) said her similar amendment would accomplish the same thing and is a true breakthrough.

MK Khenin (Hadash) said his similar amendment would accomplish the same thing and protects women in particular and society as a whole. He said a minor who can’t purchase a lottery ticket or drink a beer legally shouldn’t be allowed to drop out of school in order to get married. He noted the government opposed his bill a year ago, and he is glad the government came around. He suggested prohibiting men over the age of 36 from receiving court permission to marry 16 or 17 years olds.

MK Horowitz (Meretz) said his similar amendment would accomplish the same thing. He said that his co-sponsor MK Gal-On (Meretz) has been fighting for years on this issue and that this bill has been opposed by the government since the first Knesset term in 1949. He praised the socialist concept of regulating the age of marriage.

MK Zoabi (Balad) said her similar amendment would accomplish the same thing. She noted that there are 3,000 marriages of minors a year in the Arab sector alone. She stated that Israel is joining Egypt, Morocco, Turkey and Jordan who have all raised the age of marriage to 18 over the last five years. She said those who get married before 18 are forced to do so, and it leads to miscarriages and divorce.

Deputy Minister Gamliel (Likud) expressed government support for the bill. She said that over 500 women give birth under the age of 18 each year and that can lead to serious health problems according to various studies. She said women who decide to get married before 18 are not doing so under free will. She stated this is an historic moment.

MK Zeev (Shas) opposed the bill and said that he has never seen a darker day in the Knesset than today. He asked who the Knesset is to think they can tell a woman when she can marry. He called those who support this bill hypocrites. He noted that Iceland, The Netherlands, Hungary, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, Canada, certain states in the United States of America and Switzerland all allow marriage under the age of 18 without the need for the court’s permission. He argued this bill violates Basic Law: Freedoms and is an embarrassment. He suggested this bill would increase abortions because shotgun marriages would be more difficult and the mother would have to decide if she wants a bastard child or not at all.

MK Levin (Likud) asked which MK would allow his child to get married at the age of 17 and asked what they would do to prevent it. He said this bill helps protect women from forced marriage.

The first bill passed its preliminary reading 39-8 with one MK abstaining.

The second bill passed its preliminary reading 39-7.

The third bill passed its preliminary reading 39-7.

The fourth bill passed its preliminary reading 39-7.

The fifth bill passed its preliminary reading 37-8 with one MK abstaining.

The bills were merged and sent to the House Committee to determine which committee will discuss them further.

Amendment to the Copyright Bill

MK Gilon (Meretz) explained his amendment would require accessibility of books inside libraries and stores for people with disabilities. He said that 150,000 disabled people require this bill and this is another great American bill that Israel would be adapting. He said preventing disabled people from accessing books is unfortunate and should be corrected.

Bureaucracy Minister Eitan (Likud) expressed government support for the bill.

The bill passed its preliminary reading 20-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Motion/Amendment to the Government Bill

MK Naffaa (Balad) explained his amendment would require the Ministerial Committee on Legislation to list their reasoning for opposing a bill. He said the current situation where there is a check or an X is not acceptable, and writing at least one sentence would be helpful to the MK who has to prepare a speech to change the government’s opinion. He quoted Minister Begin (Likud), who said that the committee can’t discuss 4,000 bills a year and sometimes only gives a bill thirty seconds. He challenged the government to support his bill and create a more productive and transparent legislative process.

Bureaucracy Minister said that he personally feels that this a worthy bill but that he is in the minority in the government. He said that the government opposes the bill but allows a discussion in the committee if he agrees to turn the bill into a motion. He said that in a parliamentary democracy there is a need for this type of idea. He expressed the government position that the ministers see no reason to explain themselves to the Knesset members.  Naffaa agreed to turn the bill into a motion.

The motion passed 28-0 and was sent to the Justice Committee.

Judea and Samaria Cities Natural Development Bill

MK Katzeleh (N.U.) said elections will be held within the next year and eight months. He praised the Likud MKs who appear as Land of Israel candidates in Makor Rishon, Arutz Sheva and Srugim. He said that Deputy Minister Ya’alon, Coalition Chairman Elkin, House Committee Chairman Levin and Immigration, Absorption and Diaspora Affairs Committee Chairman Danon are all good men, but they aren’t the ones who decide policy within the Likud. He slammed Netanyahu, who told him when he needed National Union’s support with President Peres that he would allow natural development in Judea and Samaria and went on to freeze all settlements and Jerusalem. He said that if all of the good “Eretz Yisrael” candidates couldn’t convince Netanyahu to support this National Union bill that would enable natural development then it is very obvious they have no impact. He called on the nationalist camp to vote for the bill that would help Netanyahu keep his word. He warned the Likud MKs that the public will judge them for opposing this bill. He quoted Likud’s Judea and Samaria Mayors of Ma’aleh Adumim and Ariel, who criticize Netanyahu for freezing their settlements until today. He called Netanyahu a dictator. MK Hotovely interrupted him to defend Netanyahu, and Katzeleh slammed Hotovely for voting against Judea and Samaria and told her that she isn’t worth anything if Netanyahu doesn’t listen to one word that she says. He asked Hotovely how she can vote against building in Ma’aleh Adumim, Ariel, Beitar Ilit, Modiin Ilit, Alefi Meneshe and Efrat. He said Hotovely is worth nothing and her interviews with Arutz Sheva are worth nothing. He slammed the Likud for the building freeze.

Minister Begin (Likud) was being heckled by Shas and Jewish Home MKs before he even started talking, leading Deputy Speaker Majadele (Labor) to ask the coalition members to respect their own minister. Begin expressed government opposition to the bill and defended Netanyahu and his current style of government. He said this bill limits the executive branch’s power and increases the power of the legislative branch. He said that he supports Judea and Samaria’s 342,414 residents and supports the idea of increasing those numbers, but not through legislation. He said that he will defend his record and Netanyahu’s record during the next election campaign and won’t run from it.

MK Katzeleh said that although he is a loyal Eretz Yisrael person, this isn’t a Katzeleh bill or a National Union bill, this is an Eretz Yisrael bill. He told Minister Begin that he respects him personally but Begin can’t ignore the facts. He told Begin that he can’t ignore that Netanyahu accepted the two-state solution, froze Judea and Samaria building completely for ten months and froze building in many places until today, and froze our capital of Jerusalem. He told Begin that he sat with Netanyahu and Gideon Sa’ar after the 2009 election, and Netanyahu promised to allow natural growth in Judea and Samaria. Katzeleh said it is very important that we state the fact that Netanyahu lied and warn the public before the next elections that Netanyahu is a liar.

The bill was defeated 5-24 with one MK abstaining.

Motion/Amendment to the Traffic Ordinance Bill

MK Tirosh (Kadima) explained her amendment would require installing a blue flashing light on the new traffic cameras around the country. She said that the new traffic cameras are a great idea but they shouldn’t be a money maker and should instead be used to prevent speeding. She said the government can find another way to collect money but these fines take it too far. She asked why police cars must have a blue siren but a traffic camera is exempt and told them to stop camouflaging them. She said that this bill is the same as asking school children to be silent when the teacher is out of the room. She said that studies show that high speeding is not the highest parameter is traffic accidents. She said that the Moresha interchange camera has handed out over a thousand fines in the last month alone.

Science and Technology Minister Hershkowitz (J.H.) asked Tirosh to turn the bill into a motion in order to discuss the matter in committee. Tirosh agreed.

The motion passed 11-0 and was sent to the Finance Committee.

Motion/Amendment to the Real Estate Tax Bill

MK Solodkin (Kadima) explained Jerusalem, Ashdod and Netanya are filled with apartments that are owned by foreigners who don’t even rent them out. She said that her amendment would require a 20% real estate purchase tax for all nonresidents. She slammed the government for opposing her bill and embracing empty ‘ghost’ neighborhoods.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) said that only 4% of houses are bought by nonresidents for an average of NIS 1.73 million per house, 62% higher than the resident average. He said that since the nonresidents are not competing with young couples for small apartments the government is against the bill that would discriminate against nonresidents and violate diplomatic treaties that would cause double taxation.  He suggested turning the bill into a motion, and Solodkin agreed.

The motion passed 6-0 and was sent to the House Committee to determine which committee will discuss it.

Amendment to the Mandatory Tenders Bill

MK Michaeli (Shas) explained his amendment would give incentives to factories that employ disabled people within the Tenders Bill. He said that MK Orlev (J.H.) and MK Avraham Balila (Kadima) recently advanced similar bills, and his bill would be merged with their bills in committee.

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen expressed government support for the bill except for the provisions that violate the GPA agreement. He explained that there are 150 factories that meet these requirements and they receive 140 million shekels a year in incentives already.

The bill passed its preliminary reading 6-0 and was sent to the Labor Committee.

Amendment to the Planning and Building Bill

MK Khenin explained the amendment would allow installation of solar panel systems on buildings without limiting the number of floors. He said the current restriction on solar panel systems on buildings of over nine levels is old news and it is time to get with technology.

Religious Affairs Minister Margi (Shas) expressed government support for the bill.

The bill passed its preliminary reading 7-0 and was sent to the Environment Committee.

Amendment to the Income Tax Ordinance Bill

The bill that was presented and discussed the previous evening was vote on. It passed its first reading 6-0 and was sent to the Welfare Committee.

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This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s March 6, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01397612.doc

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Knesset Winter Session 2011/2012 Day 55: Population Registry, Orphans and Post-82 Seniors

Filed under: Daily Updates, Knesset — Leave a comment
March 12, 2012

The Knesset’s Monday session lasted about two hours. Four bills were discussed. One bill became law after passing its third reading, two bills were advanced after passing their first readings and one bill was not voted on. There was no no-confidence motions this week due to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s trip to United States. It is an unofficial tradition not to attempt to topple the government while the Prime Minister is representing Israel overseas. Because the Wednesday session was cancelled, the Knesset’s usual three-day week was merged into a two-day week schedule.

 

Non-Bills Summary

* 15 MKs gave speeches during the one minute speech segment that opened the day.

* Homefront Security Minister Vilnai (Independence), Energy and Water Minister Landau (Y.B.), Deputy Education Minister Moses (U.T.J.), Labor and Welfare Minister Kahalon (Likud) and Immigration and Absorption Minister Landvor (Y.B.) answered urgent queries.

* Justice, Law and Constitution Committee Chairman Rotem (Y.B.) announced his committees request to split a bill into two. The Knesset approved the request 11-0.

* House Committee Chairman Levin (Likud) announced which disputed bills will be discussed in which committees.

Bills Summary

Amendment to the Population Registration Bill

Interior and Environment Committee Chairman Cohen (Shas) explained the amendment would force the population registry to change a citizen’s religion based on the Rabbinical Court decisions. He said it is unacceptable that many people are Jews according to Jewish law and the secular population registry in the Interior Ministers office refuses to list them as such. He said the population registry can temporary not comply if they have reason to believe the citizen is not Jewish, however if a Rabbinical Court examines that evidence and disagrees, they must comply with the court decision.

The bill passed its second reading 14-0.

The bill passed its third reading 14-0.

Temporary Amendment to the Income Tax Ordinance Bill

Deputy Finance Minister Cohen (Shas) explained the amendment would increase the interest earned as well as a tax benefit package for seniors who keep their pension in the government’s hands for an extended period of time, allowing them to do part-time work during that time.

MK Ben Ari (N.U.) blasted the 40% increase of water bills in the last two years. He suggested the national project of transferring from national water resources to privately run treatment plants is hurting Israelis and should be prevented and repealed.

MK Molla (Kadima) slammed the government decision to transfer seven billion shekels from the budget to different places in one committee discussion and vote. He said this isn’t a serious way to deal with the tax payers money. He asked why the Immigration and Absorption Ministry was cut by 28 million shekel. He blasted the 5.5 million shekel cut in the Ethiopian budget. He suggested Minister Landvor supported these measures and doesn’t really want to absorb the remaining Jews in Ethiopia.

Immigration and Absorption Minister Landvor (Y.B.) told Molla to drop the stigma that she is against absorbing immigrants in general and Ethiopians in particular. She said that she fought against those cuts and Molla should stop trying to be a populist to win points. She said that all of her projects were cut and not just those of Ethiopians. MK Molla heckled her speech, so she decided to step down from the podium.

MK Eichler (U.T.J.) criticized the government position that high gas taxes are meant to save the environment and promote public transportation. He then went on to slam foreign lobbyists that are promoting incitement against orthodox Jews of all types and settlers. He called for transparency on all of the hidden lobbyists that are not classified as such. He concluded by calling the Israeli Supreme Court a group of Meretz supporters that act like dictators, but unlike Russian President Putin, they don’t even need to pretend to have elections.

Deputy Speaker Vaknin (Shas) announced the vote for this bill will take place the next day.

Amendment to the Pension Payment for Reserve Soldiers and Their Families Bill 

MK Matalon (Y.B.) explained the amendment would grant a one time payment of 100,000 shekel to orphans who lost a parent during a terrorist attack or military service before 1999. He explained that the payment goes to the spouse, but in cases of no living spouse the orphans would not receive the payment. He stated this bill would fix the technical loophole and 240 orphans would now receive their payment.

MK Zeev (Shas) praised the bill and slammed the current situation.

The bill passed its first reading 5-0 and was sent to the Welfare Committee.

Amendment to the Social Security Bill

Funds Committee Chairman Gafni (U.T.J.) explained the amendment would grant eligibility for an old age pension increase for widows and housewives over the age of 82 years. He said that the increase would end the discrimination where women over the age of 82 receive less money than women under the age of 82. He said the bill would take effect on January 1st 2013.

The bill passed its first reading 7-0 and was sent to the Funds Committee.

________________________________________________________________

This was the Knesset Jeremy English translation protocol of the Knesset’s March 5, 2012, session.

Official protocol in Hebrew: http://www.knesset.gov.il/plenum/data/01361112.doc

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