Dozens of security guards employed in schools around Jerusalem sent in letters of resignation on Monday, 12 Cheshvan to City Hall in protest over their low salaries and poor work conditions. The letter is a form of protest and statement of despair as it follows ongoing efforts and a battle for better conditions.

Strike leader Alex Tanzer explains those who submitted their letters of resignation join 120 colleagues who did so in recent months. Additional guards are expected to follow.

Histadrut national labor federation director for the Jerusalem district Mr. Danny Bonfil spoke with Galei Tzahal (Army Radio), explaining in line with the new agreement beginning in January 2017, the guards will receive an increase from the current NIS 26/hour to NIS 28/hour. On October 9th, Histadrut leader Avi Nissankoren promised the guards if they do not receive the increase the labor federation would declare a labor dispute which is an unprecedented move on their behalf.

The guards explain they cannot live on the salaries they earn, with one guard employed in a school in Gilo, in the southern capital, earned NIS 1,600 in October as there were only eight school days. He explains that teachers are paid even if there is no school but they are only paid when they work. They guards add that City Hall takes advantage of them, pointing out guards employed by subcontractors are paid during vacation in Tishrei, Chanukah and other times of the school year.

They point out their salary is among the lowest among guards around the country. As an example, they point out guards with the same responsibility but employed by the Ministry of the Interior earn NIS 30.19/hour.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)