The question remains regarding the state’s view of Tisha B’Av and if the day is recognized as a paid vacation day for civil service employees.

In a letter sent by Civil Service Commission representative Moshe Dayan dated June 18, 2012 to MK (Shas) David Azoulai, he states clearly that after probing the matter, it has been determined that 9 Av was added to the list of recognized holidays for civil service employees.

However, it appears that there is somewhat of a void between words and actions, for an email sent after that date by a Mr. Nadar Elkassam, who heads the Planning & Audit Division of the Civil Service Commission, the day [9 Av] has yet to be added to the list of approved holidays.

National Labor Union official Eli Elbaz contacted MK Azoulai pointing out the discrepancy. This prompted Azoulai to send another letter, pointing out the contradictory statements, seeking clarification. Dayan responded a number of days ago writing that at present, Tisha B’Av is not viewed as a ‘day off’ for state employees. He added that employees who fast may end the day early or opt to take the day off but it is not a recognized day off.

Azoulai feels the state discriminates against Jews, citing that during the month of Ramadan, Muslim employees are permitted to leave early, amounting to six days vacation during the month while Tisha B’Av, one day, is not recognized by the state.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)