The Movement for a Jewish State applauds the decision of the Government Press Office Ethics Committee prohibiting a spokesperson from sending messages to the media on Shabbos with the exception of matters dealing of national security and saving lives.

Attorney Ori Yisrael Paz filed a complained with the committee over the sending of official spokesperson’s messages to the media on Shabbos when the message, which is not urgent, can be sent after Shabbos. His organization praised the committee’s decision and the GPO’s willingness to amend its regulations regarding spokespersons representing official government agencies. As a result, anything not addressing national security and saving lives may not be sent on Shabbos by official government spokespersons as has been the case in the past.

Movement for a Jewish State leader Yisrael Zeira adds that even if the Prime Minister wishes to distribute photos to the media, it cannot be done on Shabbos, at least not by an official spokesperson or employee of the PM’s Office.

After the head of the GPO, Nitzan Chen, amends the regulations, anyone in violation can be punished accordance to GPO regulations.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)