Shas and Yahadut Hatorah Knesset representatives met with officials in Jerusalem councilmen in an urgent session to discuss the chareidi sector housing shortage.

Among those present were Shas leader Minister Aryeh Deri, Minister of Health Yaakov Litzman, Deputy Minister of Education Meir Porush, MKs Uri Maklev, Menachem Eliezer Moses, Yaakov Asher, Michael Michaeli and members of the city council. MK Moshe Gafne was not in attendance.

One of the matters discussed was the fact there are no chareidim serving on the planning board. They spoke of how must new projects are taller buildings which are not suited for chareidim as well as lacking a sukka balcony. This they agreed make most new buildings unsuitable for chareidim or dati leumi residents.

They pointed out there is an area that is suitable for chareidim, near Ein Kerem, and near Ramot. They explained there is sufficient area in both locations for chareidi construction and they should demand this of the city.

The forum also discussed the changing environment at Machen Yehuda as many of the vegetable stalls over recent months are being converted to pubs for nighttime entertainment as City Hall battles to change the nature of the shuk area. The mayor is working hard to make the shuk area the Jerusalem Soho while the chareidim are concerned with the changing character of the area as pubs operate through the night.

eri called on councilmen to be firm, explaining “You are not Jerusalem lobbyists. Demand what needs to be done and you will be backed by us in Knesset”.

Asher concurred with Deri, speaking in an angry tone, informing the councilmen “If there is no housing for chareidim, there will not be housing for anyone”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)