MK (Yahadut Hatorah) Moshe Gafne, acting chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee announced the economic situation in Israel is worrisome and everyone must be aware that budgetary cuts are mandatory. He explains that there will be heated discussion as to where these cuts are to be made.

“In the best scenario we will have to cut 12 billion NIS and in worst case scenario, 20 billion NIS” he said, adding “This will be unprecedented and it will impact each person personally.” He released his comments after being appointed the temporary chairman of the committee, which he chaired in the 18th Knesset. His appointment received widespread support as there was agreement regarding his suitability for the post and his exemplary performance in the past.

Colleagues in Yahadut Hatorah used the opportunity to praise Gafne’s performance and criticize those who have harsh words for Gafne, blaming the critic’s opposition on their disdain over seeing a chareidi at the head of the committee.

Gafne discarded the share the burden issue, which he feels is an excuse for the chareidi bashing which seems to be trendy in Israel today. He stresses that the “real issue” is that of the national economy and that it is time for national leaders to refocus.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)